179. Restaurant owners in Johnson City discuss their love for the city and their journey to success

About the Guests:

In this episode, we're introduced to Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar, the entrepreneurial duo behind the lively Diablo Bar and Grill located in Johnson City. Vik, who hails from a small town near the Himalayas in north Punjab, India, moved to Johnson City from New Jersey in 2005. With over two decades of experience in the restaurant and real estate industry, Vik has successfully run Sahib Indian Restaurant since 2006 and has expanded into local hotel ownership.

Kartik Kumar grew up in the bustling capital of India, New Delhi, before moving to Johnson City under the mentorship of Vik. With a background in managing family hospitality businesses back in India, Kartik has adapted and thrived in the local restaurant scene, now co-owning Diablo Bar and Grill and bringing his dream of a nightlife spot to life.

Episode Summary:

In this lively episode, we dive into the inspiring journeys of Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar, two passionate entrepreneurs who have introduced vibrant dining and nightlife experiences to Johnson City. These industry veterans share their stories from early beginnings to the recent successes of opening and managing Diablo Bar and Grill.

Starting with a nod to the beloved golf Masters weekend, the conversation quickly transitions to the entrepreneurial ventures of Vik and Kartik. We learn about the inception and growth of Sahib Indian Restaurant, a cornerstone of Johnson City's culinary scene, as well as the birth of Diablo Bar and Grill, which brings Mexican cuisine and exciting nightlife to the forefront.

Key Takeaways:

• Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar share a deep passion for the restaurant industry, which led them to open Diablo Bar and Grill alongside Sahib Indian Restaurant in Johnson City.
• Despite the challenges of COVID-19, their resilience and commitment to their businesses have led to thriving establishments that add vibrancy to the local community.
• Diablo Bar and Grill offers a unique combination of Mexican cuisine and a nightlife experience, filling a niche in Johnson City.
• The significance of family and connections shines through their journey, as both Vik and Kartik emphasize the role of their cultural background and familial support in their entrepreneurial paths.
• Both guests highlight the opportunities and the welcoming nature of America, expressing gratitude for the chance to succeed and grow in their adopted city.

Notable Quotes:

• "Life, you'll have challenges, and we just have to overcome and work hard and just, you know, and just keep moving forward." — Vik Vatarana on overcoming obstacles.
• "You show up every day and try to, you know, get things done and life, life is not easy. But if you work hard and you're focused, it's the easiest thing." — Vik Vatarana on hard work.
• "Now I'm grateful, to be honest. Yes. Blessed." — Kartik Kumar reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey.

Resources:

• Sahib Indian Restaurant
• Diablo Bar and Grill - Located at 216 East Main Street, Johnson City.

Tune into this episode for a full plate of inspiration, served with a side of entrepreneurial spirit that is sure to engage food enthusiasts and business-minded listeners alike. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and insights from industry leaders in our future episodes!