My Journey – From Home Baker to Café Founder
My name is Alisha Khoja. I was born in Nippani, later moved to Belgaum, where I completed my studies. From the very beginning, I was ambitious and deeply passionate about doing something of my own.
Alisha Khoja – Founder
Milestones
More than Five Years of Past
The Beginning
In 2020, when Covid hit hard, life felt overwhelming. I was just 24 years old, a mother to a 4-year-old boy, and expecting another baby. Between the challenges of motherhood, anxiety, and panic attacks, I found comfort and healing in something I always loved—baking.
With determination, I convinced my family to let me start a small home cloud kitchen. It wasn’t easy managing kids and orders, but baking was never just cooking for me—it was therapy, my way of fighting anxiety and depression. Thus, my journey began.
2020
2021
The Growth
I started with Alisha’s Kitchen, taking orders for biryanis, gravies, and desserts, while teaching myself baking through online videos. The response was overwhelming, but managing two kids alongside continuous orders soon became too much, and I had to pause.
That pause, however, redirected me. I focused on cakes, enrolled in online classes, and trained under two incredible mentors —who helped refine my skills and take my baking to another level.
Further Growth
The Struggles & Strength
Balancing family, kids, and my growing passion was never easy. There were countless days when I felt like giving up. Yet, every time, a few special people reminded me of why I started, and I chose to rise again, stronger than before.
2022
The Dream Realized
What I started as Alisha’s Kitchen, then blossomed into Alicious, has now grown into something even more special—Lilac n Crust Café.
And today, in 2025, with the endless love and support of my husband, kids, and family, I am finally stepping into my dream—becoming the proud Founder of Lilac n Crust Café.
But my journey doesn’t stop here. My vision is bigger—I dream of taking my café to different cities, each with its own unique ambiance, serving people with love, warmth, and the joy of good food.
My Philosophy
Baking is not just my profession—it is my story of healing, resilience, and love. Through every dessert and every flavor at Lilac n Crust Café, I wish to share that same love with you. 💜
A Note to Every Girl with a Dream
Never stop chasing what sets your soul on fire. Yes, the road will be full of ups and downs, and there will be days when you feel like giving up. But remember—difficulties are not stronger than your determination.
Work hard, rise every time you fall, and let the world know that you, too, are unstoppable. 🌟
Believe in yourself, fight for your dreams, and one day, the world will celebrate your strength. 💜