BONKEY'S: A Flavorful Odyssey from Cloud Kitchen to Culinary Triumph

In the ever-evolving culinary landscape of Jaipur, a vibrant and dynamic story is unfolding - a story of two brothers who transformed their passion for pizza into a gastronomic sensation. Meet Apoorv Rastogi and Shikhar Rastogi, the creative minds and co-founders behind BONKEY'S, a culinary venture that has captivated palates and hearts alike. Their journey, which began as a cloud kitchen in the midst of a global pandemic, has blossomed into a thriving dine-in restaurant that has redefined the pizza experience in the Pink City.

The inception of BONKEY'S dates back to a crisp October day in 2020 when Apoorv and Shikhar decided to turn their culinary dreams into a reality. The brothers, fueled by their shared love for experimenting with pizzas, embarked on a mission to create a unique and unforgettable dining experience for their patrons. What started as a cloud kitchen operating from their own home soon snowballed into a wave of overwhelming response from the food-loving community of Jaipur.

Driven by the desire to deliver the very best, the duo decided to take their venture to the next level. On the 30th of July 2022, BONKEY'S opened its doors as a dine-in restaurant, marking a significant milestone in their culinary journey. The transition from a cloud kitchen to a physical establishment was not only a testament to their success but also a testament to their unwavering dedication.

At the heart of BONKEY'S lies a profound commitment to authenticity and innovation. Apoorv and Shikhar, inspired by their fascination with Neapolitan-style pizza, embarked on a culinary exploration that would soon capture the taste buds of their patrons. They meticulously sourced local Italian ingredients, crafting a dining experience that transported guests to the charming streets of Italy. Their pizzas, made with a Neapolitan touch, became a celebration of flavors and textures, making each bite a symphony of delight.

But BONKEY'S is more than just a pizza haven; it is a culinary destination that aspires to break stereotypes. The brothers aimed to shatter the misconception that pizzas are merely fast food by crafting healthier, lighter versions of their beloved Neapolitan pizzas. Their Margherita pizza, boasting a mere 500 calories, became a beacon of mindful indulgence, redefining the way people perceive this beloved comfort food.

The journey of BONKEY'S also entailed a mission to introduce Jaipur to the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine and culture. With each bite, patrons were transported to the sun-kissed landscapes of Italy, a testament to Apoorv and Shikhar's dedication to their craft. The ecstatic feedback, often echoing sentiments of "saving us a trip to Italy," became a source of inspiration, propelling them forward on their culinary odyssey.

The success of BONKEY'S didn't stop at a single location. Driven by their passion and the undying support of their patrons, Apoorv and Shikhar embarked on a journey to expand their reach. The brothers set their sights on opening more BONKEY'S outlets, their ambitions soaring high to position their pizzeria among the top in the world.

BONKEY'S is more than a culinary establishment; it is a testament to the art of culinary experimentation. Apoorv and Shikhar's kitchen became a laboratory of flavors, where they constantly pushed the boundaries of taste and tradition. Drawing inspiration from Italian nonnas (grandmothers), the brothers blended tradition with innovation, creating a symphony of flavors that mesmerized their patrons.

Behind the success of BONKEY'S lies a tight-knit family of team members who are more than just employees; they are the backbone of the venture. The brothers emphasize mutual respect and understanding, fostering an environment where successes are celebrated together and challenges are overcome as a united front. This familial camaraderie has been instrumental in propelling BONKEY'S to its current stature.

A pivotal figure in BONKEY'S journey is Italian Pizzaiolo Micheal Pelizza, whose expertise and passion left an indelible mark on Apoorv and Shikhar. Observing Micheal craft his pizzas with meticulous precision was not only inspiring but also instrumental in shaping the Neapolitan-style pizzas that have become synonymous with BONKEY'S.

The philosophy of BONKEY'S is encapsulated in three simple yet profound principles: keeping quality paramount, nurturing the personal growth of team members, and allowing the brand to evolve beyond the founders' ideologies. Apoorv and Shikhar's journey has been marked by overcoming obstacles, including the lack of industry guidance and the challenges of building a brand from scratch. Their solution? Stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing a combination of hard work and smart strategies.

While the culinary world demands their attention day in and day out, Apoorv and Shikhar understand the importance of balance. They trust their team implicitly, automating their business to ensure smooth operations even in their absence. Their dedication to both their craft and their team is a testament to their commitment to excellence.

Apoorv Rastogi, a culinary graduate from WGSHA, MAHE, and Shikhar Rastogi, a Hotel Management graduate from IHM, Bhopal, epitomize the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Their journey began with a brick oven and a dream, fueled by the unexpected turn of events during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid transformation from flavor trials to branding, packing, and mini photoshoots culminated in the birth of "Bonkeys" as a cloud kitchen.

What started as a humble endeavor soon expanded, with BONKEY'S dine-in restaurant offering an extended menu that included fresh pastas, salads, desserts, and anti-pasti. The name "BONKEY'S" itself is a reflection of the deep bond between the two brothers, with Shikhar affectionately referring to Apoorv as "Bonkey."

The heart of BONKEY'S lies in its culinary craftsmanship, particularly evident in their unique approach to pizza. The Neapolitan-style pizza, crafted with Tipo 00 flour and fermented for 24-48 hours, promises a delightful and digestible experience. Additionally, the Roman-style pizza caters to the Indian palate with its thin and crisp base. The sauces, including the beloved Chipotle sauce, are lovingly prepared in-house, adding an extra layer of flavor to their dishes.

As BONKEY'S continues to captivate patrons with its innovative approach to pizza and Italian cuisine, Apoorv and Shikhar's journey remains an inspiring testament to passion, innovation, and the transformative power of culinary creativity. With each dish, they are not just satiating appetites but creating a culinary legacy that will be savored for generations to come. BONKEY'S is more than a restaurant; it is an embodiment of the Rastogi brothers' culinary dreams and a celebration of the art of gastronomy.