Baramulla, Nov 04: Renowned Amigos Foods, a multi-cuisine fiesta and a cherished favourite among the youth in Kashmir, on Saturday celebrated the grand opening of its fourth outlet in the valley in Kralhar area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla.
The inauguration witnessed a diverse gathering, including trade community members, academicians, educationists, and journalists from Baramulla and other regions of Kashmir.
Owner Tariq Ahmad Bhat reflected on the restaurant’s humble beginnings, acknowledging the absence of such an establishment in north Kashmir.
Recalling the inception of Amigos with just three employees, Tariq personally shouldered various responsibilities, from serving customers to crafting pizzas and managing the counter.
This latest addition to Amigos’s chain represents a significant milestone in its journey, underlining its commitment to expanding its culinary footprint across the valley.
Tariq, fondly referred to as the ‘Pizza Man,’ introduced Italian cuisine to the valley for the first time, starting with a modest investment and a small team in 2008 outside Amar Singh College in Gogji Bagh area of Srinagar.
The initial struggle gradually transformed into unparalleled success, making Amigos the most popular pizzeria in Srinagar.
Tariq claims that he has never taken a loan from the bank or received any other financial support except for the initial investment of Rs 1.6 lakh from his father, a retired government employee.
“We started with two people, three serving tables and Rs 1.6 lakh investment in 2008 and today it’s here our 4th outlet for the people of north Kashmir and we are also planning to expand to Budgam district also,” he added.
Known for offering an extensive menu, Amigos serves 50 varieties of pizza alongside Lebanese, continental, Indian, Chinese, and fast foods.
Employing a staff of 150 across three outlets, the restaurant’s daily business touches about half a million, marking its dominance in the Kashmiri pizza market.
With a vision to provide not just delectable meals but also an enjoyable experience, Tariq aims to offer entertainment for locals in Baramulla, catering to the area’s appetite for diverse culinary experiences.
While steadfast in maintaining quality and hygiene, Tariq said his commitment comes without compromise, even if it means higher costs.
He attributes the success of Amigos to reinvesting earnings back into the business rather than personal acquisitions.
Emphasising that finances should not hinder entrepreneurial dreams, Tariq encourages youth to focus on executing their ideas with a rebellious attitude, challenging conventional barriers to success.
