Most cricketers stick to endorsement deals after hitting it big. Sign with a brand, pocket ₹5-10 crores annually, show up for a photoshoot twice a year, done. But Virat Kohli looked at the typical celebrity business playbook and said “not enough.” Instead of just endorsing restaurants, he decided to own them. And not just one fancy outlet in Mumbai or Delhi, an entire chain spreading across India’s major metros.
What started as a single restaurant in Delhi’s Aerocity in 2017 has grown into One8 Commune, a ₹112 crore hospitality empire with 15+ outlets and aggressive expansion plans targeting 20+ locations by the end of 2025. The brand has invested approximately ₹35 crore into this growth strategy, opening outlets in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Mohali, Jaipur, Indore, and Gurugram. This isn’t just another celebrity restaurant that opens with fanfare and closes quietly two years later. One8 Commune has become one of India’s most successful celebrity-backed hospitality ventures, proving that Virat Kohli’s business instincts match his cricketing prowess.
What Makes One8 Commune Different from Other Celebrity Restaurants?
Walk into any One8 Commune outlet and you immediately notice it doesn’t feel like a vanity project. The décor is carefully designed by acclaimed interior designer Sumesh Menon, featuring elevated VIP seating, capsule-shaped pod structures, and Virat’s LED signature prominently displayed. But beyond Instagram-worthy interiors, the restaurants succeed because they’re run like actual businesses, not branding exercises.
Key Success Factors
Professional Management: Unlike celebrities who slap their name on a restaurant and disappear, Virat partnered with his childhood friend Vartik Tihara, who runs True Palate Hospitality, a proper hospitality company with operational expertise. Virat’s elder brother Vikas Kohli also actively manages the brand. This combination of celebrity appeal and professional management makes One8 Commune sustainable rather than just trendy.
Strategic Locations: Every One8 Commune outlet is positioned in premium areas with high footfall, Aerocity Delhi, Worli Mumbai, Indiranagar Bengaluru, Hitech City Hyderabad. These aren’t random spots; they’re calculated placements where young professionals and affluent families actually dine out regularly.
Authentic Menu Curation: Chef Pawan Bisht created a fusion menu that genuinely reflects Virat’s vegetarian lifestyle and global travel experiences. The “Virat’s Favorites” section includes his actual preferred dishes like Avocado Tartare and Mushroom Googly Dimsums. When the celebrity owner actually eats what’s on the menu, customers believe in the authenticity.
Premium but Accessible Pricing: At ₹1,500-3,000 for two people including alcohol, One8 Commune positions itself above casual dining but below ultra-luxury restaurants. This sweet spot captures young professionals celebrating promotions, families on special occasions, and cricket fans wanting to experience Virat’s brand without spending ₹10,000.
How Did Virat Kohli Build the One8 Restaurant Chain?
The One8 Commune journey started modestly but strategically. In 2017, after establishing his athleisure brand One8 with Puma, Virat decided to extend the brand into hospitality. The name comes from his jersey number 18, making it deeply personal rather than just another business venture.
The Expansion Timeline
2017: First outlet opened in Aerocity, Delhi, testing the concept in Virat’s hometown where he had maximum fan following and personal oversight
2021: Second Delhi outlet in Civil Lines with rooftop seating, cabanas, and live kitchen, proving the concept worked and could be replicated
2022: Mumbai expansion with premium outlet in Kishore Kumar’s old Juhu bungalow, positioning One8 as heritage meets modernity
2023-2024: Rapid expansion to Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru (near Chinnaswamy Stadium), Hyderabad, Mohali (10th outlet)
2025: Continuing aggressive expansion with Jaipur, Gurugram, Indore, and second Mumbai outlet in Worli; targeting 20 total locations by year-end
This staged expansion demonstrates business maturity. Virat didn’t try opening 20 outlets simultaneously and burning cash. He perfected the model in Delhi, validated it in multiple markets, then accelerated once the formula worked. That’s why One8 Commune has sustained growth rather than spectacular flameout.
Where Are All the One8 Commune Locations?
Current One8 Commune Outlets
Delhi NCR (3 outlets):
- Aerocity, New Delhi (flagship location)
- Mall Road, Civil Lines, North Delhi (rooftop destination)
- Gurugram (recent expansion)
Mumbai (2 outlets):
- Juhu (in Kishore Kumar’s heritage bungalow)
- Worli, Lower Parel (newest outlet opened August 2024)
Bengaluru:
- Indiranagar (8th outlet, near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium where Virat plays for RCB)
Pune:
- The Mills, Sangamvadi (5,000+ sq ft outlet)
Kolkata:
- Golden Park, Kankaria Estates (4,500 sq ft, 100-seater capacity)
Hyderabad:
- Hitech City (targeting tech professionals)
Mohali:
- CP67 Mall, Airport Road (10th outlet, 7,700 sq ft with indoor and outdoor seating)
Jaipur:
- Recently opened in 2024-25
Indore:
- Part of tier-2 city expansion strategy
Each location averages 4,500-7,700 sq ft with capacity for 100-150 diners, making them substantial operations requiring significant capital investment per outlet. The brand is also planning international expansion starting with Dubai, though timelines haven’t been publicly announced.
What’s on the One8 Commune Menu?
One8 Commune’s menu strategy is brilliant, it offers something for everyone without feeling scattered. Chef Pawan Bisht and regional chefs like Agnibh curate fusion menus that blend international cuisines with local flavors.
Virat’s Favorites (The Signature Section)
- Avocado Tartare: Sliced avocado with tempura, sweet corn sriracha mayo, Virat’s actual favorite dish he takes home
- Mushroom Googly Dimsums: Vegan mushroom dimsums shaped like cricket balls, bound with vegan cheese
- Superfood Salad: Red and white quinoa salad catering to health-conscious diners
- Bamboo Cashew Nut Tofu: Reflecting his plant-based lifestyle
Regional Specialties (Varies by Location)
Mohali: Masala Bhutta (street food-inspired roasted corn), Kala Chana Chaat Hummus with kurkuri bhindi
Kolkata: Bandel Chop (crispy fried snack)
Delhi: Kasundi Malai Tikka, Lahori Chole, Mumbai Dabba Gosht
International Offerings:
- Coal-grilled Black Chicken (Korean-style)
- Phyllo-wrapped Camembert cheese
- Arrabiata Penne pasta
- Pizzas with unique toppings
- Sushi platters
Desserts:
- Five Rivers Mud Cake (layered chocolate)
- Oven-Baked Cheesecake with berry compote
Beverages: Classic cocktails, mocktails, smoothies, and specialty drinks
The menu strikes a balance between Virat’s vegetarian preferences (making vegan/vegetarian options genuinely appealing) and meat dishes for non-vegetarian diners. This inclusive approach means groups with different dietary preferences can all find something they genuinely want to eat, not just tolerate.
How Much Money Does One8 Commune Make?
The financial success of One8 Commune positions it as one of India’s most profitable celebrity restaurant chains. According to multiple reports, the brand’s total valuation stands at approximately ₹112 crore, with aggressive expansion plans backed by ₹35 crore in fresh investment for doubling outlets by end of FY25.
Revenue Breakdown (Estimated)
- Average outlet revenue: ₹8-12 crore annually (based on 100-150 covers daily at ₹1,500-3,000 per couple)
- Premium locations like Aerocity Delhi and Juhu Mumbai likely exceed ₹15 crore annually
- Tier-2 city outlets like Mohali and Indore probably generate ₹5-8 crore
Business Model
- Company-owned and operated (not franchise initially)
- Now offering franchise opportunities requiring:
- 5,000-7,000 sq ft space
- ₹3-5 crore investment per outlet
- Brand fees and royalties to parent company
Profitability Factors
The restaurant business typically operates on thin margins (15-20% net profit is considered excellent), but One8 Commune has advantages:
- Premium pricing justifies higher margins
- Celebrity association reduces marketing costs (Virat’s social media posts generate millions in free publicity)
- Strategic locations ensure consistent footfall
- Multiple revenue streams: dine-in, alcohol sales, events, private dining
Unlike many celebrity restaurants that depend on the novelty factor and fade after initial hype, One8 Commune maintains consistent business through genuine quality and strategic positioning. The brand’s ability to secure ₹35 crore expansion capital demonstrates investor confidence in its business model.
Who Actually Runs One8 Commune?
While Virat Kohli is the brand owner and face, the operational success comes from professional management, a crucial distinction that separates One8 Commune from failed celebrity restaurants.
The Management Team
Virat Kohli:
- Brand owner and founder
- Holds approximately 76% stake through Universal Sportsbiz (USPL)
- Provides creative direction and brand positioning
- Active involvement in menu tasting and outlet launches
- Uses personal social media (280M+ Instagram followers) for promotion
Vartik Tihara:
- Childhood friend of Virat (nearly two decades of friendship)
- Runs True Palate Hospitality, which co-owns One8 Commune
- Handles day-to-day operations across all outlets
- Oversees expansion strategy and location selection
- The only non-family member invited to Virat and Anushka’s wedding, showing the trust
Vikas Kohli:
- Virat’s elder brother
- Actively manages One8 brand operations
- Handles business partnerships and expansion deals
- Named the brand “One8” as tribute to Virat’s jersey number 18
- Resides in Gurugram, closely monitoring Delhi NCR operations
Chef Pawan Bisht:
- Corporate Chef and R&D Executive
- Curates menus across all locations
- Ensures consistency in food quality
- Develops new dishes and seasonal offerings
This structure works because Virat provides star power and vision while experienced hospitality professionals handle operations. He’s not trying to run restaurants between cricket matches, he’s built a proper management team and empowered them to execute his vision.
Why Do People Actually Go to One8 Commune?
Beyond the obvious “it’s Virat Kohli’s restaurant” factor, One8 Commune retains customers through genuine experience rather than celebrity gimmick.
The Real Draw
Atmosphere and Ambiance: The restaurants feel like upscale social spaces, not shrines to cricket. Yes, there are subtle cricket references, jersey numbers, scoreboard elements, Virat’s signature, but the design is sophisticated enough that non-cricket fans enjoy the space. The interiors work equally well for business lunches, romantic dinners, or group celebrations.
Instagram-Worthy but Substance-Focused: While the LED signatures and stylish décor generate social media posts (free marketing), the food quality ensures people return. One-time visitors come for photos; repeat customers come for the food.
Consistent Quality Across Locations: Opening a restaurant in Mohali that delivers the same experience as Bengaluru or Mumbai is incredibly difficult. One8 Commune’s professional management ensures consistency, making it a reliable choice in whichever city customers visit.
Event-Friendly Spaces: With capacities of 100-150 people, private dining areas, and rooftop sections, One8 Commune attracts corporate events, birthday celebrations, and cricket watch parties. This diversified revenue beyond just walk-in diners.
Celebrity Spotting Potential: During IPL season, One8 Commune outlets near cricket stadiums host RCB team members and visiting cricketers. The chance to spot cricket stars adds excitement, especially in Bengaluru near Chinnaswamy Stadium.
What’s Next for One8 Commune?
The aggressive expansion roadmap shows Virat isn’t satisfied with current success. He’s doubling down on hospitality at a time when many restaurant chains are struggling.
Expansion Plans (2025 and Beyond)
Domestic Growth:
- Target 20+ outlets across India by December 2025
- Focus on tier-1 cities: more outlets in existing markets (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru)
- Selective tier-2 expansion: cities like Chandigarh, Lucknow, Ahmedabad being evaluated
- Franchise model rolling out to accelerate growth without massive capital deployment
International Expansion:
- Dubai confirmed as first international market (timeline TBD)
- Potential locations: London, Melbourne, Dubai where large Indian diaspora exists
- International expansion could significantly increase brand valuation
Menu Innovation:
- Regional specialties in each city (already implementing with Mohali and Kolkata)
- Seasonal menu changes to keep repeat customers engaged
- Possible celebrity chef collaborations for limited-edition menus
Technology Integration:
- Enhanced online ordering and delivery partnerships
- Loyalty programs for repeat customers
- Event booking platforms for corporate clients
Brand Extensions:
- Cloud kitchen model for delivery-only locations
- Packaged food products featuring One8 Commune recipes
- Cooking masterclasses or culinary events
The ₹35 crore investment specifically earmarked for expansion demonstrates serious ambition. For context, most restaurant chains consider 15-20 outlets a mature portfolio. Virat is targeting that by 2025 and likely aiming for 30-40 outlets over the next 3-5 years.
What Can Entrepreneurs Learn from One8 Commune?
The One8 Commune success story offers valuable lessons for anyone building a celebrity brand or hospitality business.
1. Celebrity Ownership Works Only with Professional Management
Virat didn’t try to run restaurants himself. He brought in Vartik Tihara (hospitality expert) and empowered his brother Vikas to handle operations. Celebrity provides visibility; professionals provide sustainability.
2. Start Small, Prove the Model, Then Scale
One8 opened one outlet, perfected it over years, validated in multiple cities, then accelerated. Many celebrity restaurants fail by opening 5-10 locations simultaneously and burning capital before finding product-market fit.
3. Strategic Locations Matter More Than Maximum Locations
Each One8 outlet is in a premium area with target demographics. Better to have 10 profitable outlets in right locations than 30 struggling outlets in random spots.
4. Authenticity Beats Pure Marketing
The “Virat’s Favorites” menu section isn’t marketing gimmick, these are dishes he actually eats. Customers appreciate genuine connection versus manufactured celebrity association.
5. Diversify Revenue Streams
One8 Commune generates income from dine-in, alcohol sales, private events, corporate catering, and now franchise fees. This diversification protects against market volatility.
6. Leverage Personal Brand Without Making Everything About It
Virat promotes One8 Commune on his massive social media following, but the restaurants don’t feel like cricket museums. The brand leverages his equity without overplaying it.
7. Quality and Consistency Enable Premium Pricing
At ₹1,500-3,000 per couple, One8 Commune charges significantly more than casual dining. But consistent quality, premium ambiance, and reliable service justify the pricing.
The Bottom Line
Virat Kohli built One8 Commune into a ₹112 crore restaurant empire by treating it like a real business, not a vanity project. The combination of celebrity brand power, professional hospitality management, strategic expansion, and genuine quality created one of India’s most successful celebrity-backed restaurant chains.
From a single outlet in Delhi’s Aerocity to 15+ locations across major cities with 20+ outlets targeted by year-end 2025, One8 Commune demonstrates that celebrity businesses can scale sustainably when structured correctly. The ₹35 crore expansion investment shows the brand has moved beyond initial hype to become a legitimate hospitality player with serious growth ambitions.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, the One8 Commune story proves that celebrity association accelerates growth but can’t replace operational excellence, strategic thinking, and professional management. Virat’s willingness to partner with experienced hospitality professionals, empower his brother and childhood friend to run operations, and invest capital for long-term growth rather than quick exits created something far more valuable than just another celebrity restaurant. It’s a genuine business that will likely outlast his cricket career and become part of his post-retirement legacy.
