GAJA; A taste of passion
Our conversation with the founders of GAJA
It’s been just a year since GAJA opened its doors in Charminster, but in that short time it’s already become a go-to for flavour-packed curries, creative cocktails, and a dining experience with heart.
Born from the owners’ love of hospitality and inspired by their global travels, GAJA’s journey has been anything but easy—from licensing battles to juggling renovations, day jobs, and even pregnancy—but the result is a restaurant rooted in passion, resilience, and community.
As GAJA celebrates its first birthday, we sat down with the team to talk about how it all began, what kept them going, and where they’re heading next.
You mentioned you once owned a restaurant in London. What made you decide to open a new one here in Bournemouth?
When we sold our restaurant in London, we really missed the buzz that came with it. We went out a lot afterwards, but we couldn’t quite find the dining experience we used to offer ourselves.
When we moved to Bournemouth, I often moaned to Trevan that there was nowhere to enjoy a really good curry and cocktail. One evening, he turned to me and said, “Why don’t you open your own restaurant?”
That night we reminisced about how much fun we’d had running our previous place and how special it was. We sold that restaurant ten years ago, yet we’re still in touch with both our staff and customers today.
How did GAJA in Charminster come about?
A few weeks later, I signed up for commercial property alerts. One evening, I got a notification about a unit available to rent in Charminster. That same night we drove over, met the owner, looked at the property, and on the way back to the car we just smiled at each other—we both knew this was it. The very next morning, we waited for the clock to hit 9am, and at 9:01 I called the agent to say we wanted it.
What was the renovation process like?
Once the paperwork was done, we started renovations straight away. But we were hit with objections to our alcohol licence, which delayed us by six months. It was incredibly tough—the rent still had to be paid, our whole team eventually left because they couldn’t wait, and we had to dig into our personal savings to keep the dream alive.
You’re also Cabin Crew with British Airways—did that influence GAJA in any way?
Definitely. In my 10 years with BA, I’ve been lucky enough to visit so many beautiful places around the world. I’ve taken little inspirations from those experiences and poured them into GAJA—whether in the design, the food, or the drinks.
How long did it take from signing the lease to opening your doors?
Thirteen months in total. We officially opened on the 18th of August 2024. I was four months pregnant at the time! My partner kept working his day job, and every evening we were both in the restaurant making sure every guest had the kind of experience we’d been missing ourselves.
You kept working almost until your due date—what was that like?
I was in the restaurant every day until I was nine months pregnant. Eventually, I couldn’t even fit between the tables and the staff told me to go home and rest! In January this year, we welcomed our first son. We closed GAJA for two weeks so both we and our staff could enjoy a well-deserved break. After that, we came back with a refreshed food and drinks menu.
Tell us about the name—why GAJA?
GAJA comes from the Sanskrit word , which means “elephant.” In Hindu scriptures, the elephant symbolises strength, wisdom, royalty, and solidarity. That felt like the perfect name for us—it represents what we wanted GAJA to stand for.
Book your table
After a whirlwind first year filled with passion, flavour, and plenty of heart, GAJA has firmly established itself as one of Bournemouth’s most exciting dining spots.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly spiced curry, a cocktail with a twist, or simply a night out somewhere that feels special, GAJA is ready to welcome you. Why not celebrate their first birthday with them and book a table—you’ll quickly see why so many locals already call it their favourite place to dine.
CONTACT
T. 01202933165
E. info@gajabournemouth.co.uk
A. 360 Charminster Road, BH8 9RX Bournemoutch
