A musician's journey of creating Sainikpuri's favourite burger joint Fat Cat Kitchen

Hyderabad: At first glance, Arun Ruben’s journey may seem like a series of unconnected dots—music, cooking, and a pandemic. But when you meet the man behind Sainikpuri’s favorite burger joint, Fat Cat Kitchen (FCK), the dots form a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Known to many as BaaBaa, Arun didn’t just build a restaurant; he created a haven where comfort food meets soul.

Arun’s life was anything but conventional. He started as a corporate worker, found solace in music, and later transitioned into cooking—two distinct worlds that unexpectedly intersected. A musician for over 12 years with the band Phoenix, Arun played gigs across the country and ate at some of the finest restaurants. What began as an attempt to replicate dishes he loved turned into an experiment in cooking. However, it wasn’t until the pandemic turned the world upside down that Arun decided to trade his guitar for an apron and turn his culinary experiments into a full-fledged business.

Fat Cat Kitchen, born out of a home kitchen during the lockdown, is now a cozy burger joint with a reputation for serving hearty, no-frills food. Arun’s story is about more than just cooking; it’s about finding purpose and joy in unexpected places.

Here’s an exclusive interview with Arun Ruben, the man who turned a desperate situation into a beloved neighborhood eatery.

1. When did you first realize you enjoyed cooking?

Cooking became my outlet around the same time I started singing professionally. Music was my escape during my corporate days, and cooking became my escape as a musician. It gave me peace in ways I didn’t expect.

2. What inspired you to turn your love for cooking into a business?

It was really a leap of faith. During the lockdown, I was broke and had to find a way to make ends meet. I started selling burgers through social media. I’d post the menu for the day, and people would either send riders to pick up the food or time their pickups with those tiny lockdown windows for shopping. That’s how it all began.

3. How did your background as a musician influence your cooking journey?

Playing music at some of the best venues and events gave me a behind-the-scenes look at the culinary world. We’d enter through the F&B entrances, and I’d often observe how the back end of kitchens worked. At home, I’d try to recreate dishes I’d enjoyed while on tour. Music and cooking both involve creativity and quick thinking, which helped me in the kitchen.

4. Do you still play music, or has it taken a backseat?

I don’t perform anymore, but I do host karaoke nights occasionally. Sometimes, when the restaurant is empty, I pick up my guitar and play a bit. Music hasn’t left me; it’s just taken on a quieter role in my life.

5. What was it like transitioning from performing on stage to running a kitchen?

Both are challenging but in different ways. Performing is mentally taxing, while cooking professionally is more physically demanding. Whether you’re leading a band or heading a kitchen, you need to be sharp and alert for yourself and your team.

6. How did you come up with the name Fat Cat Kitchen?

It started as a home kitchen, and I’ve got two rescue cats at home. Plus, I’m not exactly the skinniest guy around! The name just fit.

7. Why did you decide to focus on burgers and keep the vibe simple?

This side of town didn’t have a good burger place, and I wanted to change that. As for the vibe, I’m all about practicality and comfort. Fancy interiors and Instagrammable decor don’t matter to me. I wanted the focus to be on the food and hygiene.

8. Do you see yourself expanding FCK, or is Sainikpuri its forever home?

The roots will always be in Sainikpuri. I double up as the cook and waiter, which lets me maintain quality. I’ve had offers to expand, but they came with conditions I couldn’t agree with, like changing the menu or relocating. This cozy, local vibe is what makes FCK special.

9. Have you ever doubted your decision to start this business?

Absolutely, there were moments of doubt—sometimes days or weeks of it. Music helped me through those times. I’d pick up my guitar, find a quiet spot, and play. I’m also lucky to have a supportive younger sister and close friends who’ve always had my back.

10. What’s the story behind some of your best-sellers?

Our Signature Burger is where it all began, so it holds a special place. The DarkSeid is a black pepper chicken burger named after the DC villain. It’s the opposite of our Signature, a bit like the dark side of the menu!

11. If someone’s visiting FCK for the first time, what should they try?

Definitely the burgers and chicken wings. Our sweet and savory stuffed buns are also a hit. We also have seasonal specials announced on Instagram, so keep an eye out for those.

12. When you think about where you started and where you are now, what’s been the most rewarding part of it all?

This started as a desperate attempt to pay rent during the lockdown. I couldn’t imagine going back home and saying, “I’m broke.” I was raised to earn my keep, no matter what. The most rewarding moment was when my mom visited FCK for the first time. The look of pride and relief on her face meant everything. Despite all the challenges, we’re now approaching our fifth year of operation. Knowing that we’ve survived and built something meaningful for the community is incredibly fulfilling.

Conclusion

Fat Cat Kitchen is more than a burger joint—it’s a testament to Arun Ruben’s grit and heart. With every bite, customers taste not just the food but also the passion of a man who refused to give up, even when the odds were against him. For Sainikpuri locals, FCK isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, unwind, and savor the joy of simplicity done right.