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Dubai has no shortage of fine dining establishments, after all, it’s a city known for its opulence and grandeur . Yet, among the glitz and glamor, there’s one eatery that stands out, not for its extravagance, but for its sheer culinary brilliance. “That Place,” nestled in the heart of Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), is the brainchild of Arpita Khatri, a visionary creator who has transformed this modest establishment into an epicurean haven that redefines the very essence of dining.
Arpita embarked on her culinary adventure six years ago in 2016, in the bustling city of Dubai, shortly after completing her culinary training at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu London. Her culinary dreams took shape when she established “That Place,” a cafe with a concept as diverse as her own aspirations.
In just six short years, Arpita Khatri has worked her magic, taking “That Place” from a simple eatery to a culinary masterpiece that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Today, the restaurant has found its new home in the bustling cluster K of JLT, housed in the MBL Building.
A Journey of Transformation
Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Arpita’s family moved to Dubai in 2008, seeking educational opportunities and safety. Drawn to the city’s remarkable growth, infrastructure, and proximity to India, Arpita found herself in a place that would become the canvas for her culinary dreams.
The transition from finance to food was not without its hurdles. Arpita’s background in Accounts and Finance, coupled with her ACCA qualification, initially led her down a different career path. However, a burning desire for culinary exploration beckoned, leading her to leave her job at KPMG and enroll in the Grand Diploma course in Cuisine & Pastry at Le Cordon Bleu London in 2015.
One of the remarkable aspects of Arpita’s journey is her ability to allow her eatery to organically evolve. Without a specific concept in mind, she embraced uncertainty and allowed her creativity to flow freely. This flexibility and willingness to experiment became a cornerstone of her success, proving that sometimes the best ideas are born from the courage to step into the unknown.
Facing challenges with Resilience
Opening and running a restaurant is no walk in the park. From staffing challenges to the intricacies of inventory management, Arpita faced numerous obstacles along the way. The initial lack of experience in the culinary industry didn’t deter her; instead, it fueled her determination to learn and adapt. She understood that both her culinary journey and her brand would evolve in parallel with her own personal growth.
One notable achievement in That Place’s early days was winning the Dubai Food Festival Award in 2017, just six months after opening in Jumeirah. While the cafe’s popularity surged and the overwhelming response was exhilarating, with rising rent costs, Arpita decided to relocate That Place to Al Karama.
The ultimate test of her endurance came with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which wreaked havoc on the food industry worldwide. Arpita’s ability to adapt, introduce new offerings, and meet customer demands even during these trying times illustrated the power of resilience and innovation in maintaining a thriving business.
Arpita’s insights into the world of marketing shed light on the challenges faced by entrepreneurs when working with influencers and marketing agencies. Arpita emphasizes the importance of choosing marketing partners who align with your brand’s values and genuinely aim to help your business grow. She also discovered the power of influence, not just from external sources but from within herself. She harnessed her own influence and authenticity to promote her brand effectively. Her hands-on involvement in marketing efforts underscored the authenticity and storytelling power that business owners themselves can bring to the table.
A Culinary Maestro
In 2023, That Place relocated once again, this time to JLT cluster K, MBL Building. Arpita’s vision had evolved into an Indian Fusion Bake House concept, offering an extensive menu of Indian and fusion delights. Starting with stuffed buns and expanding to a full blown restaurant as it is today, she emphasizes the importance of making everything in-house. from bread to sauces, to ensure the highest quality and integrity of the dishes, a testament to Arpita’s unbridled culinary creativity. Not content with resting on her laurels, Arpita’s pursuit of certifications in Nutrition & Herbalism reflects her commitment to continuous personal and professional growth.
The Heart of the Business
Behind every successful entrepreneur is a strong support network. Arpita Khatri acknowledges the importance of her loyal customers, her supportive family, her dedicated staff, and even the universe itself as key contributors to her journey. Arpita recounts heartwarming stories of customers, particularly a family with a young daughter who prefers That Place over even the fanciest of restaurants.
A Taste of That Place
“That Place” is a culinary adventure like no other. Arpita’s adventurous spirit reflects in the restaurant’s diverse and tantalizing menu. Guests can embark on a journey that spans Indian-style burgers, tantalizing sesame pockets, and the fiery delights of Kolhapuri Nasi Goreng. Not to be missed is the crown jewel, the KGF Chicken dish, along with other Indian classics like Panki, Railway mutton curry, and soul-soothing biryanis.
It isn’t just about the food; it’s an immersive dining experience. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere is complemented by board games at your disposal. Each table features a conversation starter—a pack of cards to enhance connections and spark memorable moments. Sports enthusiasts can catch the game on the massive TV screen.
What truly sets “That Place” apart is its commitment to crafting every element in-house. From freshly baked bread to tantalizing sauces, including their signature Dynamite sauce’s Mayonnaise, everything is made from scratch. Even desserts and the famed Momos receive the artisanal touch, as Arpita insists on sourcing raw materials conscientiously.
A Final Thought
Arpita’s advice to entrepreneurs encourages compassion, finding a niche, and learning from experiences. Her emphasis on exploring new opportunities and embracing change reminds us that entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey of growth and self-discovery. Her belief in lifting others up and fostering a sense of community is a testament to the positive impact that mentorship and encouragement can have on fellow entrepreneurs.
If you’re in Dubai and looking for an extraordinary dining experience, make sure to visit “That Place” in JLT, where every visit is an adventure, every dish is a masterpiece, and every bite is an expression of culinary artistry. Arpita Khatri and her dedicated team await to take you on a gastronomic voyage you won’t soon forget.
Address: Jumeirah Lake Tower, MBL Building, Retail 7, Cluster K, Dubai, UAE
Get In Touch: 045852909
Connect with her on Instagram
Click for Restaurant’s website
