Today we’d like to introduce you to Shivani Kapoor.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
A gateway to a more authentic Indian dining experience, Gateway To India was founded in 2006 by Chef Paul Kapoor and his wife, Shivani Kapoor. A native of Mumbai, India, Chef Kapoor brings decades of culinary expertise and has successfully launched and operated six restaurants over the course of his career. His passion for sharing traditional Indian cuisine eventually led him to expand internationally, including the establishment of Gateway To India in Aruba.
Shivani Kapoor, a former Darden employee with a strong background in human resources, currently operates Gateway To India Longwood. In 2026, the restaurant proudly celebrates its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of serving the Central Florida community.
Over the years, Gateway To India has earned numerous accolades, including Best of Orlando, Best of Seminole (2014), the Orlando Sentinel Foodie Award (2013), and Orlando’s Best (2023). Continuing to evolve, the restaurant introduced a full-service bar in 2025, further enhancing the guest experience.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building a restaurant business while raising a growing family was never easy. With four boys at home and several restaurant ventures to develop and reinvent, life was defined by long hours, constant movement, and hard work. Yet through every challenge, our passion for hospitality remained unwavering. We have always found our greatest joy in nourishing our guests and creating spaces where people feel genuinely cared for.
Now, with our children grown and pursuing their college journeys, we have entered a new chapter as empty nesters. With this transition comes reflection and intention. Chef Kapoor is planning to slow down and thoughtfully step toward retirement, with plans to settle in Aruba and operate a small, focused culinary venture—one that reflects a lifetime of experience, passion, and love for the craft, distilled into its purest form.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Coming from a family deeply rooted in entrepreneurship, business was always a natural path for me—especially influenced by my father. After marriage, it felt almost destined that my career would continue in the same direction. My husband had a strong vision to develop several ethnic restaurant concepts, and after many years in the corporate world with Darden Restaurants, I made the decision to transition into our family business.
I have always loved working with people. While my husband preferred that I stay away from kitchen operations, during his frequent travels to India I took it upon myself to learn directly from our chefs. My goal was to understand the culinary process thoroughly and build a comprehensive recipe book that would preserve consistency and authenticity across the restaurant.
Since 2019, the chef has gradually shifted his focus overseas. While he continues to oversee operations at a high level, the day-to-day management has largely been handled by me. I have learned full kitchen preparation and am fully capable of stepping into the chef role when needed. Marketing responsibilities have been entrusted to our son, Hari, a second-year student at the University of Central Florida. Our two younger children assist occasionally with events and shopping as needed. Our eldest, MJ, managed the restaurant for several years before realizing that hospitality was not the right long-term fit for him.
This location holds deep sentimental value for our family. My late mother-in-law was actively involved during the opening days, and my father, Jagmohan, was a silent partner for a period of time. Even today, my 70-year-old mother continues to visit the restaurant to ensure appetizers are prepared properly, offering her ongoing support and guidance. We also continue to receive invaluable mentorship from Chef Kapoor, whose monthly visits help ensure that operational standards, quality, and authenticity remain uncompromised.
This restaurant is not just a business—it is a legacy built on family, dedication, and a shared passion for hospitality.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up watching my father work long hours running our family supermarket, while my mother supported our household as a seamstress. Their work ethic and resilience shaped my values early on. After relocating to Minnesota and later Florida, I began my professional career with Carlson Travel, where I developed strong customer service and operational skills. I later joined Darden Restaurants, gaining extensive hospitality and leadership exposure, including training in San Gimignano and Florence for Olive Garden and working in Human Resources with Smokey Bones. I have always been a nurturing individual, and as a Virgo, I am naturally detail-oriented, highly ambitious, and deeply driven. Much like my husband, I am a committed workaholic, motivated by growth, excellence, and long-term success.
Pricing:
- $10 $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gatewaytoindiarestaurant.biz
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatewaytoindia_longwood/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gatewaytoindiarestaurant/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gateway-to-india-longwood-7
