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Ivan PanfilovBusinessman, son of actress Inna Churikova and director Gleb Panfilov
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Biography of Ivan Panfilov
- A Different Path
- A Departure from the Norm
- A Calling for Adventure
- A New Venture
- A Shocking Revelation
- A Unique Dining Experience
- Challenges and Controversies
- Conclusion
Biography of Ivan Panfilov
Ivan Panfilov, a businessman, is the son of actress Inna Churikova and director Gleb Panfilov. After graduating from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), Ivan decided to pursue a career in the restaurant industry and opened his establishment called "Children of the Sun" in Peredelkino.
A Different Path
Instead of following the traditional path of working at a prestigious law firm or studying in the United States to obtain an LL.M. degree, Ivan chose to immerse himself in the world of chefs and waitstaff. This decision surprised and intrigued the upper class, who questioned whether it was a super or a foolish move. Ivan spoke to reporters about his parents' reaction to his sudden career choice and his restaurant "Children of the Sun."
A Departure from the Norm
Ivan explained that he had initially followed the expected path after graduating from college. He had secured a job as a lawyer at a large corporation and planned to pursue a master's degree in London. However, he found himself feeling unhappy and unfulfilled, realizing that he didn't fit into the corporate world. Ivan realized that some people enjoyed being part of something massive, working as well-paid cogs in global corporations, while others craved freedom and thrived on challenges. He fell into the latter category, desiring independence and the ability to answer to himself.
A Calling for Adventure
Ivan's unconventional career choice may have been influenced by his upbringing. He explained that if his parents were civil servants, he might have had a different attitude towards office work. At some point, he even considered a diplomatic career but found himself drawn to different countries and unfamiliar cultures during a six-month internship in Cuba. The experiences he had there, meeting artists in Havana and encountering practitioners of voodoo and Santeria in rural areas, fueled his desire for freedom and adventure. However, upon returning to Moscow, Ivan realized that joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would not provide the financial independence he desired and decided to pursue a path that would grant him financial stability.
A New Venture
Ivan's journey in the restaurant industry began when he expressed the need for a café in the corporation where he worked as a lawyer. To his surprise, the owner challenged him to open one himself. Although he hadn't initially intended to earn a living this way, Ivan agreed, seeing it as an opportunity to create a space where people could relax and enjoy time with friends away from the pressures of work. Little did he know that he would start with a simple canteen, delving into construction, renovation, equipment procurement, and hiring staff. He learned to navigate the challenges and discrepancies in the industry, such as uncovering discrepancies in the delivery of ingredients.
A Shocking Revelation
When Ivan's parents learned that their son, a graduate of MGIMO, had become the director of a canteen, they were shocked. However, Ivan tries to shield his parents from unpleasant information and decisions that may upset them, even though he values their opinions and often seeks their advice. Living alone since his twenties, Ivan found that their schedules no longer aligned, and he often had to forgo breakfast to avoid disturbing them. He understood the fatigue they experienced and wanted to spare them any additional stress.
A Unique Dining Experience
Ivan's restaurant, "Children of the Sun," aims to provide a cozy atmosphere for creative intellectuals. Located in Peredelkino, a unique area that combines the elite neighborhoods of Rublyovka and Uspenskoe with a rustic charm, Ivan envisioned a nostalgic and intellectual dining experience. While he welcomes fashionable and affluent guests, Ivan also hopes to attract writers as regulars, organizing literary evenings and poetic Tuesdays with homemade pastries, fruits, candles, and champagne.
Challenges and Controversies
Ivan faced challenges in his endeavor, particularly with the Writers' Union, which proved to be unfriendly towards his restaurant. Though he signed a lease agreement for 15 years, a change in the leadership of the Literary Fund required a new five-year contract, making it difficult for Ivan to invest substantial funds without a long-term commitment. Despite the obstacles, Ivan remains determined to continue his venture.
Conclusion
Ivan Panfilov's journey into the restaurant industry was unexpected but fulfilling. While he faced initial skepticism from those around him, his dedication to creating a unique dining experience has gained recognition, even catching the attention of renowned restaurateur Arkady Novikov. Ivan believes that his choice of location, Peredelkino, is ideal for his vision and hopes to attract both the fashionable elite and esteemed writers. Although controversies and challenges persist, Ivan remains committed to his restaurant and the opportunities it offers for creativity and intellectual engagement.
