Retirement is often seen as a time to slow down and step back, but for 62-year-old Smita Surendranath Blaggan, it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter filled with ambition and determination. After dedicating years to a government job, Smita decided to pursue her lifelong dream of running a restaurant. Today, her Lake View Restaurant in Siridao, Goa, stands as a beacon of her passion for food and hospitality, and her inspiring journey proves that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
With the support of her 30-year-old son, Rohit, Smita transformed her culinary passion into a thriving business. Born in Dharwad, Karnataka, and married into a Punjabi family, Smita’s rich cultural background exposed her to diverse cuisines that now define her cooking. Her journey has been far from easy, but it is filled with lessons and triumphs that resonate with seniors across India who dream of embarking on their own ventures.
From Kitchen to Restaurant: A Dream Comes True
Born in Dharwad, Karnataka, and married into a Punjabi family, Smita’s diverse background exposed her to a variety of cuisines. With expertise in Punjabi, Goan, Konkani, Maharashtrian, and even world cuisines like Italian and continental, she had always been passionate about cooking.
“I started cooking at the age of 10, making jowar rotis for my father,” she recalls. Over the years, her culinary skills were honed by her mother and mother-in-law, both excellent cooks. Whether it was her husband’s colleagues or her children’s friends, Smita’s home was always a gathering spot for those who loved good food.
Although her late husband often encouraged her to open a restaurant, the timing never seemed right. It was only after her son Rohit returned from Dubai in 2020 that Smita’s dream began to take shape. Together, they found the perfect location near their home in Siridao, Goa, and opened Lake View Restaurant a space with a stunning view and a seating capacity of 150. With an investment of Rs 25 lakhs, the mother-son duo set out to serve food that came straight from the heart.
Overcoming Challenges with Flavor and Determination
Starting a restaurant is never easy, and the Blaggans faced their share of hurdles. Just weeks after opening in March 2020, the nationwide lockdown brought their operations to a standstill. But Smita’s confidence in her cooking kept their spirits high.
“We spent the lockdown waiting to serve people,” she says. “I’ve always believed that good food speaks for itself, and I was sure it would draw customers to us.”
Despite these obstacles, Lake View Restaurant has gained a loyal customer base, thanks to its authentic Goan cuisine and seafood specialties. Popular dishes like prawn danger, fish thali, rawa mussels, and butter chicken keep patrons coming back for more. Smita’s dedication to quality and flavor is evident in every dish, and she proudly says, “I love every dish I prepare; they’re all made with the same care and dedication.”
A New Lease on Life
For Smita, starting the restaurant at 60 was more than a business venture; it was the fulfillment of a lifelong passion. From experimenting with recipes as a young girl to now running a successful restaurant, her journey proves that age is no barrier to achieving dreams.
“What is life without some masala and drama?” she laughs, reflecting on the ups and downs. Today, she feels a deep sense of accomplishment watching her dream come to life and seeing customers enjoy her food.
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Smita’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. If you’re looking for inspiration, support, or simply a community to belong to, Sukoon Unlimited is here for you. This unique platform connects seniors across India, offering friendship, care, and opportunities to explore new hobbies and interests.
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