Matheshu Nagaraj has purchased The Office Pub & Grill in 亚洲天堂 Lake five years after arriving in the community for a job as head chef.
Originally from Tamil Nadu, India, Nagaraj moved to 亚洲天堂 Lake from Calgary after accepting a chef position at the pub, drawn by the opportunity and the natural beauty of the area. He said he quickly came to appreciate the friendliness of the community and the sense of belonging it offered.
鈥淚 love the people and the small community鈥攅veryone is friendly and makes us feel like we are home,鈥� he said, adding that the encouragement he receives from regulars who stop by the kitchen helps him stay motivated every day.
Though this is not his first business鈥攈e previously owned Matt鈥檚 Diner in Calgary鈥擭agaraj said taking over The Office represents a deeper commitment to 亚洲天堂 Lake.
鈥淚 wanted to be part of the 亚洲天堂 Lake community and I love cooking and making people happy,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 am fortunate Babbi Singh, the former owner gave me the opportunity to purchase the business and I wish him well in his future ventures.鈥�
He has no plans to change the pub鈥檚 name, but renovations and a refreshed menu are in the works, along with plans to collaborate with other local organizations. 鈥淲e want to be involved and make partnerships... and build our business,鈥� he said.
Now settled with his wife, two children, and a brother also living in the area, Nagaraj said his family feels grateful for the warm welcome they鈥檝e received.
鈥淲e enjoy 亚洲天堂 Lake and intend to stay and we will do our best to gain the respect and support of the local people," he said. "Everyone is welcome to come by and say hello.鈥�
