Every great venture begins with a spark of inspiration, and for Asheen Lobo and Alwyn Mascarenhas, this was no exception. Both seasoned professionals in the hospitality industry, their journey—rooted in hard work, perseverance, and a passion for culinary excellence—has blossomed into the creation of celebrated establishments such as Wok & Roll and Aguada Riverside. Their shared vision of combining global exposure with local authenticity has not only defined their careers but also enriched the dining experiences they offer.
Alwyn’s upbringing in a family that valued education and discipline shaped his professional ethos from an early age. As the youngest of four children, he embraced the importance of perseverance, which guided him through his roles in hotels and cruise ships. Similarly, Having worked across various 5-star properties in India and experienced a glimpse of cruise ship life, Asheen brings a wealth of knowledge and versatility to the hospitality industry.
Growing up in a family rooted in the field, with a father deeply involved in hospitality, Asheen was immersed in its nuances from an early age. Adding to this foundation, Asheen’s mother instilled a love for cooking, teaching essential culinary skills that would later complement their professional journey.
This blend of hands-on experience and familial influence has shaped Asheen into a well-rounded individual with a deep passion for creating memorable guest experiences.Together, their shared dream of channeling these experiences into a meaningful venture became the foundation of their entrepreneurial journey.
Crafting the Vision: The Founding Story
The idea for their business emerged serendipitously during a chance meeting between the two. Asheen shared his vision of opening a Southeast Asian restaurant, a concept that immediately resonated with Alwyn. Their shared passion for vibrant flavors and the culinary parallels between Southeast Asian and Goan cuisines made this vision a natural fit.
The initial days of brainstorming were characterized by late-night discussions and meticulous planning. While Alwyn focused on culinary innovation, Asheen took charge of logistics and operations. Their complementary strengths and unwavering determination laid the groundwork for their first venture, Wok & Roll, which became a culinary delight for locals and tourists alike.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Navigating the dynamic landscape of the hospitality industry is never without its challenges. For Asheen and Alwyn, maintaining relevance and ensuring consistent quality have been ongoing priorities. Recognizing these challenges early on, they adopted a strategy of adaptability and proactive improvement. By regularly training their team, staying attuned to industry trends, and encouraging guest feedback, they have created a culture of excellence and innovation.
Their strong partnership has been pivotal in overcoming hurdles, as they effectively divide responsibilities to ensure every aspect of the business is attended to. This collaborative approach has allowed them to build trust with patrons and maintain their reputation for delivering exceptional dining experiences.
Celebrating Milestones
One of the most significant milestones in their journey was the celebration of their 10th anniversary. This achievement marked not only a decade of hard work and dedication but also the unwavering support of their patrons. For Asheen, this moment reaffirmed the purpose of their journey—to create heartfelt experiences that bring people together through food. Alwyn echoed this sentiment, expressing immense gratitude for the love and appreciation they have received over the years.
Leading by Example: Their Leadership Philosophy
Asheen and Alwyn’s leadership style is defined by a commitment to leading by example and fostering a collaborative environment. They believe that hands-on involvement and open communication are crucial for success. By empowering their team to take ownership of their roles, they ensure that every individual feels valued and motivated.
This philosophy extends to their approach to training and development. Regular workshops and feedback sessions not only enhance the skills of their staff but also create a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Their emphasis on mutual respect and creativity has cultivated a dynamic workplace culture that reflects in the exceptional service they provide.
Cultivating a Culture of Excellence
Creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture has been a cornerstone of their success. Asheen and Alwyn strive to foster an environment where team members feel encouraged to innovate and express their ideas. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also translates into a superior guest experience.
Their focus on inclusivity extends beyond their team to their guests, as they aim to create welcoming spaces where people from all walks of life can enjoy memorable dining experiences. This commitment to inclusivity and excellence has become a defining feature of their brand.
Innovation and Adaptability: Staying Ahead
In an industry that thrives on change, innovation and adaptability are key to staying relevant. Asheen and Alwyn’s creative approach to menu development and guest experiences has set them apart from the competition. They regularly experiment with new dishes, cocktails, and themed events, ensuring that their offerings remain fresh and exciting.
Their popular Sunday brunches, which feature a rotating menu of unique dishes, exemplify their commitment to culinary innovation. These events not only showcase their creativity but also provide an opportunity to connect with guests on a deeper level, creating lasting impressions.
A Customer-Centric Approach
Guest satisfaction lies at the heart of their business philosophy. Asheen and Alwyn prioritize guest engagement, taking the time to check in with diners after every course to ensure their expectations are met. Feedback plays a crucial role in their operations, as they personally review comments and make adjustments to continuously improve.
This proactive approach to customer satisfaction has helped them build strong relationships with their patrons, fostering loyalty and trust. By focusing on delivering exceptional experiences, they have established a reputation for excellence that keeps guests coming back.
Balancing Work and Life
Running a successful business is undoubtedly demanding, but Asheen and Alwyn understand the importance of work-life balance. For Asheen, traveling and music provide a much-needed escape, while Alwyn finds solace in reading and spending time with family. These moments of relaxation not only recharge their spirits but also help them maintain clarity and focus on their goals.
Expanding Horizons: The Future Vision
Looking ahead, Asheen and Alwyn have ambitious plans for their business. Their newly launched riverfront venue, Aguada Riverside, focuses on authentic Goan cuisine and represents an exciting step toward their vision of celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage. Additionally, their company, AAJ, is exploring opportunities in outdoor catering and pop-up events, further expanding their reach and impact.
Their goal for the next five years is to strengthen their connection with local patrons while continuing to innovate and grow. By staying true to their roots and embracing new opportunities, they aim to leave a lasting legacy in the hospitality industry.
Inspiring Generations: The Legacy of Wok & Roll and Aguada Riverside
At the heart of their journey is a desire to inspire future generations to value authenticity and quality. Asheen and Alwyn hope to be remembered for their heartfelt food and experiences that bring people together. Through their dedication to showcasing the beauty of Goan and Southeast Asian cuisines, they aim to leave an indelible mark on the industry.
Their story, marked by resilience, innovation, and a deep love for their craft, serves as a testament to the power of following one’s passion. As they continue to push boundaries and create meaningful experiences, Asheen and Alwyn exemplify the transformative impact of pursuing dreams with determination and heart.
