Our Story

At the heart of The Malabarikh Atelier lies a dream that has been nurtured by three individuals, whose passion for the hospitality industry and a shared love for Indian cuisine have led them to create something truly special. Sharon Thomas, Pavan Koshy Jacob, and Amal Jacob are not just business partners – they are friends who have walked different but intertwined paths in their journeys within the world of hospitality.

Pavan, a seasoned chef with over a decade of experience, has always had a deep connection to food. Growing up in India, he ran a successful catering business, where he honed his skills in the kitchen and developed a love for crafting authentic dishes that stay true to their roots. This deep knowledge of Indian flavours and spices is the foundation of The Malabarikh Atelier. Pavan’s journey led him to the University of Hertfordshire, where he crossed paths with Amal, and together they studied International Hospitality, Tourism, and Events Management. Pavan also shares a strong professional bond with Sharon, having worked side by side with him in a fine dining restaurant in Cambridge. It was here that both their culinary skills and their friendship grew.

Sharon, like Pavan, is a chef whose passion for cooking has guided him every step of the way. Having spent the last three years serving in the UK, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to providing guests with memorable dining experiences. Working with Pavan in Cambridge, they developed a shared vision for what food could be – a blend of tradition, creativity, and authenticity that speaks to the heart. Sharon’s expertise in bringing bold, beautiful Indian flavours to the table perfectly complements Pavan’s approach to cooking, and together, they have created a menu that celebrates the richness of India’s culinary heritage.

Amal, who is the front office specialist of the team, ensures that every guest who walks through the doors of The Malabarikh Atelier feels welcomed and cared for. With years of experience in customer service, including his time working on cruises, Amal understands the importance of hospitality. His warmth and professionalism are at the core of our restaurant’s ethos, and he is dedicated to ensuring that each visit to our restaurant is a memorable one.

What brings these three together, beyond their individual expertise, is a shared dream. Since their arrival in the UK, they’ve always known that one day they would open their own business – one that would allow them to combine their skills, their love for food, and their passion for hospitality. The Malabarikh Atelier is the manifestation of that dream – a place where they can share their love for Indian cuisine with the English community, while also creating a welcoming space for the Indian community in Cambridge and across the UK.