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.
The One8 Commune Virat Kohli Results:
- Brand valuation: ₹112 crore total valuation
- Current outlets: 15+ locations across major Indian cities
- Expansion investment: ₹35 crore for doubling outlets
- Growth target: 20+ locations by December 2025
- Average outlet size: 4,500-7,700 sq ft with 100-150 capacity
- Ownership: Virat holds ~76% stake through Universal Sportsbiz (USPL)
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: Partnered with childhood friend Vartik Tihara who runs True Palate Hospitality with operational expertise
- Family involvement: Elder brother Vikas Kohli actively manages brand operations
- Strategic locations: Every outlet positioned in premium areas with high footfall, Aerocity Delhi, Worli Mumbai, Indiranagar Bengaluru
- Authentic menu curation: Chef Pawan Bisht created fusion menu genuinely reflecting Virat’s vegetarian lifestyle
Unlike celebrities who slap their name on a restaurant and disappear, this combination of celebrity appeal and professional management makes One8 Commune Virat Kohli sustainable rather than just trendy.
Premium but Accessible Positioning
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.
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 creating trust that pure marketing cannot replicate.
How Did Virat Kohli Build the Restaurant Chain?
The Strategic Launch and Name
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 first outlet opened in Aerocity, Delhi, testing the concept in Virat’s hometown where he had maximum fan following and personal oversight. This strategic choice allowed him to perfect the model close to home before expanding to unfamiliar markets.
The Staged Expansion Timeline:
- 2017: First outlet Aerocity Delhi, testing concept with strong local fan base
- 2021: Second Delhi outlet Civil Lines with rooftop seating, proving concept could be replicated
- 2022: Mumbai expansion with premium outlet in Kishore Kumar’s old Juhu bungalow, heritage meets modernity positioning
- 2023-2024: Rapid expansion to Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru near Chinnaswamy Stadium, Hyderabad, Mohali as 10th outlet
- 2025: Continuing aggressive expansion with Jaipur, Gurugram, Indore, second Mumbai outlet in Worli
Why Staged Expansion Worked
This 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 demonstrating patience rare in celebrity businesses.
Each location averages 4,500-7,700 sq ft with capacity for 100-150 diners, making them substantial operations requiring ₹3-5 crore investment per outlet. The brand is also planning international expansion starting with Dubai, though timelines haven’t been publicly announced.
Where Are All the One8 Commune Locations?
Current Outlet Distribution
Delhi NCR anchors the chain with 3 outlets including Aerocity flagship, Mall Road Civil Lines with rooftop destination, and Gurugram recent expansion. Mumbai has 2 outlets in Juhu located in Kishore Kumar’s heritage bungalow and Worli Lower Parel opened August 2024.
Complete Location Portfolio:
- Bengaluru: Indiranagar 8th outlet near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium where Virat plays for RCB
- Pune: The Mills Sangamvadi with 5,000+ sq ft outlet
- Kolkata: Golden Park Kankaria Estates, 4,500 sq ft with 100-seater capacity
- Hyderabad: Hitech City targeting tech professionals
- Mohali: CP67 Mall Airport Road, 10th outlet with 7,700 sq ft indoor and outdoor seating
- Jaipur: Recently opened in 2024-25
- Indore: Part of tier-2 city expansion strategy
Each location strategically placed where young professionals and affluent families actually dine out regularly. These aren’t random spots but calculated placements ensuring consistent footfall and profitability from day one.
What’s on the One8 Commune Menu?
Virat’s Favorites: The Signature Section
One8 Commune Virat Kohli’s menu strategy is brilliant: offer something for everyone without feeling scattered. Chef Pawan Bisht and regional chefs like Agnibh curate fusion menus blending international cuisines with local flavors.
The signature section features Avocado Tartare with sliced avocado, tempura, sweet corn sriracha mayo as Virat’s actual favorite he takes home. Mushroom Googly Dimsums shaped like cricket balls with vegan mushroom bound with vegan cheese. Superfood Salad with red and white quinoa catering to health-conscious diners. Bamboo Cashew Nut Tofu reflecting his plant-based lifestyle.
Regional Specialties 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 and Beverage Offerings
International offerings include Coal-grilled Black Chicken Korean-style, Phyllo-wrapped Camembert cheese, Arrabiata Penne pasta, pizzas with unique toppings, and sushi platters. Desserts feature Five Rivers Mud Cake layered chocolate and Oven-Baked Cheesecake with berry compote.
The menu strikes 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?
Financial Performance and Valuation
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.
Average outlet revenue reaches ₹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 Evolution:
- Initially: Company-owned and operated for quality control
- Now offering franchises: Requiring 5,000-7,000 sq ft space, ₹3-5 crore investment per outlet, brand fees and royalties to parent company
- Revenue diversification: Dine-in, alcohol sales, events, private dining, now franchise fees
Profitability Factors
The restaurant business typically operates on thin margins where 15-20% net profit is considered excellent, but One8 Commune Virat Kohli has advantages. Premium pricing justifies higher margins. Celebrity association reduces marketing costs as Virat’s social media posts to 280M+ Instagram followers generate millions in free publicity.
Strategic locations ensure consistent footfall eliminating dependence on novelty. Unlike many celebrity restaurants that 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?
The Professional Management Team
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.
Virat Kohli serves as brand owner and founder holding approximately 76% stake through Universal Sportsbiz (USPL). He provides creative direction and brand positioning, active involvement in menu tasting and outlet launches, and uses personal social media with 280M+ Instagram followers for promotion.
Operational Leadership:
- Vartik Tihara: Childhood friend with nearly two decades of friendship, runs True Palate Hospitality co-owning One8 Commune, handles day-to-day operations across all outlets
- Vikas Kohli: Virat’s elder brother actively managing One8 brand operations, handles business partnerships and expansion deals, named the brand “One8” as tribute
- Chef Pawan Bisht: Corporate Chef and R&D Executive curating menus across all locations, ensures consistency in food quality
Why This Structure Works
The only non-family member invited to Virat and Anushka’s wedding was Vartik, showing the trust level. 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, demonstrating business maturity rare among celebrity entrepreneurs who often micromanage areas outside their expertise.
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: Upscale social spaces, not shrines to cricket; subtle cricket references but sophisticated enough for non-cricket fans
- Instagram-worthy but substance-focused: LED signatures and stylish décor generate social media posts (free marketing), food quality ensures people return
- Consistent quality: Opening Mohali restaurant delivering same experience as Bengaluru or Mumbai is incredibly difficult, professional management ensures consistency
Event-friendly spaces with capacities of 100-150 people, private dining areas, and rooftop sections attract corporate events, birthday celebrations, and cricket watch parties. This diversified revenue beyond just walk-in diners creating multiple income streams from same real estate.
The Celebrity Spotting Factor
During IPL season, One8 Commune Virat Kohli 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 where Royal Challengers Bangalore plays home matches.
One-time visitors come for photos and Virat’s association. Repeat customers come for the food, ambiance, and consistent experience, demonstrating the brand has moved beyond pure novelty to genuine hospitality value.
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 post-pandemic.
Domestic Growth Plans:
- Target: 20+ outlets across India by December 2025
- Focus cities: More outlets in existing markets including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru
- Tier-2 expansion: Selective growth in Chandigarh, Lucknow, Ahmedabad being evaluated
- Franchise model: Rolling out to accelerate growth without massive capital deployment
International Expansion Strategy:
- Dubai confirmed: First international market (timeline TBD)
- Potential locations: London, Melbourne, Dubai where large Indian diaspora exists
- Valuation impact: International expansion could significantly increase brand valuation beyond current ₹112 crore
Innovation and Technology Integration
Menu innovation includes regional specialties in each city already implementing with Mohali and Kolkata, seasonal menu changes keeping repeat customers engaged, and possible celebrity chef collaborations for limited-edition menus.
Technology integration encompasses enhanced online ordering and delivery partnerships, loyalty programs for repeat customers, and event booking platforms for corporate clients. Brand extensions could include cloud kitchen model for delivery-only locations, packaged food products featuring One8 Commune recipes, and 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.
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.
Why One8 Commune Virat Kohli Succeeded:
- Professional management: Brought in Vartik Tihara with hospitality expertise and empowered brother Vikas, celebrity provides visibility while professionals provide sustainability
- Staged expansion: Started with one outlet, perfected it, validated in multiple cities, then accelerated; many celebrity restaurants fail opening 5-10 locations simultaneously
- Strategic locations: Each outlet in premium area with target demographics; better 10 profitable outlets in right locations than 30 struggling in random spots
- Authentic connection: “Virat’s Favorites” menu features dishes he actually eats, customers appreciate genuine connection versus manufactured celebrity association
- Revenue diversification: Dine-in, alcohol sales, private events, corporate catering, franchise fees protect against market volatility
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.
Key Success Principles:
- Quality and consistency: At ₹1,500-3,000 per couple, charges significantly more than casual dining, but consistent quality justifies premium pricing
- Personal brand leverage: Virat promotes on 280M+ follower social media but restaurants don’t feel like cricket museums
- Capital investment: ₹35 crore expansion investment shows brand moved beyond initial hype to legitimate hospitality player
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. With aggressive plans for 20+ outlets by 2025, international expansion to Dubai and potentially London and Melbourne, and franchise model enabling rapid growth without massive capital deployment, One8 Commune Virat Kohli represents one of India’s most successful celebrity-to-entrepreneur transitions in the hospitality sector demonstrating that sports icons can build sustainable businesses when they combine star power with professional execution and patient capital.
