Though he grew up in a household where food was deeply appreciated, Naga Chaitanya confesses that he’s not very handy in the kitchen.
“Cooking has always fascinated me, but I’ve never really taken it up seriously,” he says. “That said, I do love exploring flavors, understanding ingredients, and tasting regional dishes when I travel.” His deep interest in the culinary arts grew as he traveled for shoots and film promotions, discovering unique dishes across India.
“Making coffee is therapeutic for me. It’s that quiet time before the chaos of the day begins,” Chaitanya shares. He’s explored different brewing techniques, from French press to pour-over, and finds joy in the art of crafting a good cup.
While fans know him best as a talented actor, Naga Chaitanya is now stepping into the business world with equal passion. His latest venture—a chic café and co-working space in Hyderabad—reflects his love for food, coffee, and meaningful conversations.
“This idea had been brewing (pun intended!) for a while,” he laughs. “I wanted to create a space where people could enjoy a great cup of coffee, work in peace, and connect with each other.”
He’s hands-on with the business and is involved in everything from design to menu tasting. His vision? To build a community-driven space that blends food, culture, and creativity.
When asked about the challenges of starting a café, Chaitanya explains that entrepreneurship is a new learning curve.
“In films, we’re focused on performance and creativity, but business involves strategy, management, and consistency,” he says. Yet, he’s found parallels between the two.
“Whether it’s a movie or a business, it’s all about storytelling and experience,” Chaitanya adds. “Just like a good film leaves a lasting impression, I want my café to leave people feeling happy and inspired.”
He’s also passionate about supporting local talent. From sourcing beans from Indian coffee farms to hiring young chefs and artists, the café is a platform for homegrown talent.
Chaitanya believes that cafés are more than just places to eat or drink—they are hubs of culture. “Some of the best conversations happen over coffee,” he says. “It’s where friendships start, ideas form, and sometimes, even films are born.”
For him, coffee represents comfort, connection, and creativity. His favorite brew? A classic filter coffee with a modern twist.
“There’s something nostalgic about it, yet it feels fresh when done right,” he explains.
Growing up in a family of actors—being the son of Telugu superstar Nagarjuna and grandson of legendary actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao—Chaitanya has fond memories of food bringing people together.
“Festivals were always filled with homemade food, laughter, and warmth. I still remember my grandmother’s pickles and the way our kitchen would smell,” he recalls.
While he may not be cooking up biryani or dosa in the kitchen, he’s deeply connected to the emotional side of food—its ability to tell stories and bring people closer.
As an actor, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. Chaitanya emphasizes balance when it comes to food.
“I enjoy indulgent meals once in a while, but I try to eat clean most of the time,” he shares. He believes in listening to your body and respecting its needs.
His day starts with a light breakfast, followed by protein-rich meals, plenty of hydration, and of course, his favorite coffee.
Through his café and growing presence as a lifestyle influencer, Naga Chaitanya wants to inspire young people to explore passions beyond their comfort zone.
“You don’t have to be perfect at something to pursue it. You just have to care enough to start,” he says, urging fans to take risks and follow their curiosity.
Whether it’s acting, coffee brewing, or entrepreneurship, Chaitanya believes that dedication and heart are what truly matter.
With his first café gaining popularity, fans are curious if Naga Chaitanya plans to expand the brand. While he remains tight-lipped about future ventures, he hints at collaborations with chefs, food festivals, and even pop-up art events.
“I want to keep it dynamic. I don’t want it to be just a café—I want it to be a living, breathing space that evolves,” he says.
As he continues to juggle film projects and business responsibilities, Naga Chaitanya is an example of how passion, when pursued with purpose, can turn into something truly special.
Naga Chaitanya’s story is more than just about films or fame. It’s about following passions, building meaningful connections, and finding joy in everyday rituals—like a cup of coffee. He may not be a gourmet chef, but his journey proves that success lies in doing what you love and doing it well.
So, the next time you’re enjoying your coffee, remember—you don’t have to be a skilled cook to make magic. Sometimes, all you need is heart, vision, and a little bit of caffeine.
