Dhruv Sincro and his brother Mukund grew up in Goa, where their early lives were marked by academic and creative pursuits. Dhruv pursued engineering at Padre Conceicao College of Engineering Verna, excelling in his studies while nurturing a passion for creative work. His primary profession, however, is acting. Mukund, on the other hand, completed his graduation from Goa College of Arts before furthering his studies in VFX and animation at Vancouver Film School, Canada. Their diverse backgrounds and shared creativity laid the foundation for their future venture.
A Shared Passion for Culinary Arts
Though their educational paths diverged, Dhruv and Mukund shared a common interest in the culinary arts. Dhruv’s early cooking experiences in Mumbai, where he impressed friends with his traditional Goan dishes, sparked a deeper passion for cooking. Mukund, with his artistic flair, contributed creatively to this passion. The brothers often experimented with recipes together, blending traditional Goan flavours with innovative twists.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal moment for the Sincro brothers. As Dhruv returned to Goa, rethinking his career path due to the lockdown, he was presented with an unexpected opportunity. Mukund, equally eager to embark on a new journey, joined him in transforming a vacant property into a café.
Founding Mr. Busquò The Goan Baab
Together, Dhruv and Mukund co-founded Mr. Busquò The Goan Baab, a café that beautifully combines American and Goan cuisines. The ad concept was entirely Mukund’s idea, aiming to create a true conceptual ad for the product rather than a typical walkthrough video of the café. Drawing on their film background, the team developed a creative ad that resonated with the people of Goa and was well-received. While in Goa, Dhruv’s uncle offered the chance to start the café. With a vacant property available, his uncle suggested Dhruv and Mukund turn it into a culinary venture. They both seized the opportunity with enthusiasm. Dhruv, inspired by his love for cooking and the unique cultural blend he wanted to offer, came up with the café’s name, “Busquò,” a Konkani word meaning “food.” Mukund played a key role in shaping the café’s identity by designing the logo and the character of Mr. Busquò.
Designing the Café
Dhruv and Mukund tackled the challenge of designing the café themselves. With limited funds but abundant creativity, they meticulously crafted every detail of the space. Dhruv’s engineering background aided in planning the layout and lighting, while Mukund’s artistic vision shaped the café’s aesthetic. The result was a cozy, inviting space that resonated with customers.
The Unique Culinary Experience
Mr. Busquò The Goan Baab offers a distinctive culinary experience, combining American comfort foods with Goan flavours. The brothers experimented with recipes, striving to perfect their take on traditional dishes like cafreal, which led to the creation of the popular cafreal burger. Their menu reflects a passion for innovation and a commitment to providing a homely atmosphere for patrons.
Challenges and Triumphs
Running a café presented its share of challenges, particularly in staffing. The Sincro brothers faced difficulties finding reliable staff, with many leaving unexpectedly. Despite these obstacles, their determination and resourcefulness helped them overcome these issues. They implemented efficient kitchen processes, including pre-prepared ingredients, to maintain quality and streamline operations.
Engaging with the Community
Dhruv and Mukund are dedicated to engaging with the local community. They organise exhibitions, pop-up stalls, and dream of hosting theatre activities, open mics, and music gigs at the café. Their vision extends beyond the culinary realm, aiming to create a vibrant space for artistic expression and community interaction.
Future Aspirations and Innovations
The brothers are constantly exploring new culinary possibilities. Recognizing the demand for vegetarian options, they plan to expand their menu to include more diverse dietary choices while preserving the essence of Goan flavours. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction drives their ongoing efforts.
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
The journey of Dhruv and Mukund Sincro from their diverse educational backgrounds to founding Mr. Busquò The Goan Baab is a testament to their resilience and passion. The café stands as a symbol of their dedication to blending cultures and flavours, creating a unique culinary experience for their patrons.
Conclusion
Dhruv and Mukund Sincro’s story is a compelling example of how passion and perseverance can lead to success. Their commitment to culinary excellence, creativity, and community engagement continues to set them apart. As they explore new horizons and embrace their cultural roots, their journey promises growth, innovation, and lasting impact in the culinary world.
Trial and Error in the Kitchen
Despite their success, Dhruv and Mukund had no prior experience running a commercial kitchen. Their approach was one of trial and error, learning and adapting on the go. This hands-on experience was crucial in shaping their operations and refining their craft, showcasing their dedication to making Mr. Busquò The Goan Baab a success.
