The Hazelnut Factory unveils restored heritage café in Varanasi
The Hazelnut Factory unveils restored heritage café in Varanasi
The Hazelnut Factory has opened its 16th outlet in Varanasi, anchoring the launch around the revival of Narayani Koop a historic well built in 1883 by Maharani Narayani Devi in honour of Maharaja Ishwari Prasad Narayan Singh of Banaras. Once neglected for decades, the well has now been thoughtfully restored and woven into the design and cultural narrative of the new café.
A Café Rooted in Heritage and Cultural Revival
Founder Ankit Sahni shared the deeper vision behind the Varanasi expansion, stating: “Our journey into Varanasi is about more than opening a café – it’s about becoming a living part of the city’s heritage. Restoring Narayani Koop allowed us to honour both the Maharaja’s generosity that once transcended borders and the Maharani’s devotion in preserving his prestige and legacy. This café celebrates culture, community, and continuity, reflecting the true heart of Banaras.”
This approach highlights the brand’s philosophy of integrating local stories and historical legacies into every new destination it enters.
The Legacy of Narayani Koop: A Symbol of Cross-Cultural Compassion
The origins of Narayani Koop trace back to the Maharaja’s Well in Stoke Row, Oxfordshire, built in the 19th century and funded by Maharaja Ishwari Prasad Narayan Singh to help a British community facing water scarcity.
In tribute to this act of generosity, Maharani Narayani Devi later commissioned the construction of the Narayani Koop in Banaras. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the well symbolised Indo-British goodwill, compassion, and shared heritage. Over time, however, it fell into disrepair.
The Hazelnut Factory’s restoration initiative brings the well back into public memory, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with this remarkable historical link.
A Contemporary Vegetarian Café with a Story to Tell
The new Varanasi outlet is designed to blend tradition with modern dining sensibilities. As a vegetarian café, it aims to deliver nourishing, flavourful experiences while immersing guests in the cultural significance of the site.
By restoring the Narayani Koop and integrating it into the café’s ambience, The Hazelnut Factory reinforces its commitment to:
- Preserving local heritage
- Strengthening community ties
- Promoting cultural storytelling through space and design
Residents and tourists alike are invited to experience a café where culinary traditions meet historical memory, creating a unique destination within one of India’s most culturally rich cities.
