Theres something about the patio at 8th Day Café. That afternoon, as I sat outside, the sun was just beginning its descent — not quite evening, not quite day — that golden, in-between hour when everything glows softly, like a secret whispered to the earth. The sunlight spilled through a wall of green, casting a warm shimmer across the wooden table. The scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered, and in that glowing moment, it felt like the world paused just long enough to let you breathe. The café didnt shine with glamour. It glowed — gentle, real, full of soul. And in that stillness, I felt the heartbeat of the place. A heartbeat that belongs to a man named Grant Walsh. Grants story begins far from Kolkata, in Phoenix, Arizona — a city as warm as his heart. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to raise her three children, Grant grew up with deep respect for women. Watching her struggle left a lasting imprint. It sparked his lifelong commitment to womens rights — a passion that still burns in him and lights up every corner of his cafés. From his college days at Arizona State University, where he earned a business degree, Grant felt drawn to hospitality. Not just serving food, but creating space — warm, safe, loving space. He believed then, as he does now, that beautiful things happen when you nurture the soul. That real business is about people, not profits. In his thirties, India called out to him. He travelled through Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities — but it was Kolkata that stole his heart. There was something about the people — their warmth, their memories, their hospitality. From 2012 to 2019, Grant lived in Kolkata, walking its streets, learning its rhythms, and slowly building what would become his dream: 8th Day Café. Of course, it wasnt easy. He didnt know about the mountain of permissions needed to start a business in India. He made mistakes and learned the hard way. But through the struggles, he found his people — a loyal team that became his family. Some staff members have been with him from the very beginning. That kind of loyalty comes from love. Today, 8th Day Café has grown to four locations, soon to be five. Yet it has never lost its intimacy. The design is earthy and elegant — full of natural light, soft tones, and lush plants. The space feels like a patio at home. And despite the chic interiors, pricing remains accessible. A decadent dessert can cost under ₹150. Because Grant believes good things should be for everyone. But what truly defines the cafés isnt just the menu or décor — its the philosophy. Every 8th Day Café has one word boldly painted on its walls: LOVE. To Grant, love is the most powerful force in the universe. Love builds community, heals hearts, and creates unity. His leadership reflects that — he listens, supports, and uplifts. Most of his team, from branding to baristas to operational leaders, are women. Not by chance, but by choice. His cafés are tributes — to the woman who raised him, and to all women who give selflessly. When I asked him about the name 8th Day, he smiled and said, We all hustle seven days a week. The 8th day — thats for you. To rest, to breathe, to feel special. And thats exactly what his café offers. Whether youre curled up with a book or laughing with friends, you feel like you belong. What amazes me most is how present he remains. Grant still visits the cafés himself, greeting guests like a host welcoming you into his home. Not asCEO. Not as a foreigner. Just a human being — open, kind, real. And people respond to that. They make his café their second home. Thats what love does. There are many offers to take 8th Day to other cities, but hes in no rush. He wants each café to grow organically — with care, intention, and heart. Because for him, this was never about expansion. It was always about meaning. That afternoon, as golden light stretched across the patio and strangers laughter filled the air, I realised: this isnt just the story of a café. Its the story of belief. That a boy raised by a single mother could grow up to empower women. That a café in India could be built on love. That something as simple as coffee could become a sanctuary. If thats possible — anything is. Because at the heart of it all, Its never just about coffee. Its always about people. Its always about love.

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