Aarushi Jain
Lawyer | Entrepreneur | Founder of Chambers of Jain and Kumar | IIM-Bangalore Goldman Sachs 10K | Art Cafe Owner - Artphonso
Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did your journey lead you to also run a café?
Law was never just a profession for me; it was a calling. From the moment I took on my first case, I realized that the law isn’t just about statutes and courts—it’s about people, their struggles, and finding real solutions. Over time, I noticed something interesting: I wasn’t just solving legal problems; I was building relationships, fostering communities, and helping people grow. That realization sparked another passion—creating a space where art, conversation, and creativity could thrive. That’s how my café, Artphonso, was born—a place where people could find solace, inspiration, and connection, much like how they seek legal advice for relief and clarity.
Aarushi Jain
Lawyer | Entrepreneur | Founder of Chambers of Jain and Kumar | IIM-Bangalore Goldman Sachs 10K | Art Cafe Owner - Artphonso
Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did your journey lead you to also run a café?
Law was never just a profession for me; it was a calling. From the moment I took on my first case, I realized that the law isn’t just about statutes and courts—it’s about people, their struggles, and finding real solutions. Over time, I noticed something interesting: I wasn’t just solving legal problems; I was building relationships, fostering communities, and helping people grow.
That realization sparked another passion—creating a space where art, conversation, and creativity could thrive. That’s how my café, Artphonso, was born—a place where people could find solace, inspiration, and connection, much like how they seek legal advice for relief and clarity.
Q2. Can you share the story behind founding your café? What was the vision behind it?
Artphonso wasn’t just a business idea; it was an extension of who I am. I wanted to create a space that felt like home—where artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers could gather, share ideas, and grow together. From curating the menu to designing the ambiance and even creating my own coffee blend, every detail was intentional. Today, it’s not just a café; it’s a community. We host art shows, book readings, music sessions, and even business networking events. My goal was simple: to create what didn’t exist—a space where creativity and collaboration flourished.
Q3. How do you balance the structured world of law with the creativity and warmth of the hospitality industry?
At first glance, law and hospitality seem worlds apart—one is structured, precise, and often high-pressure, while the other is about warmth, creativity, and experience. But at their core, both are about people. As a lawyer, my job is to understand and solve problems. As a café owner, it’s the same—understanding what people need, creating an experience for them, and making their lives a little better, whether through a legal strategy or a cup of coffee. It’s about balance, and I thrive in the challenge of switching between the two.
Q4. Have there been any legal challenges you've faced as a café owner? How did your legal expertise help navigate them?
Absolutely. Running a café means dealing with contracts, vendor agreements, employee rights, compliance, and intellectual property issues. I’ve seen so many business owners struggle with legal hurdles because they didn’t anticipate them. My legal background gave me the foresight to structure everything properly from day one—whether it was lease agreements, trademarking Artphonso, or ensuring smooth operations. I’ve also helped fellow entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes, and that’s been incredibly rewarding.
Q5. What’s a common misconception people have about lawyers that you'd like to debunk?
That we’re intimidating and unapproachable! Many people see lawyers as problem-creators rather than problem-solvers. I’ve had clients tell me, “We are scared of black coats and white coats—lawyers and doctors.” But law isn’t just about fighting cases; it’s about preventing problems before they arise, guiding people, and making things easier for them. That’s why I focus so much on mediation and out-of-court settlements—sometimes the best legal solution isn’t a battle; it’s a resolution.
Q6. Running a café often comes with unique experiences—can you share a memorable customer story that left an impact on you?
There are so many! But one that stands out was a customer who walked in one evening, sat in a corner with his notebook, and wrote for hours. Later, he told me that it was the first time in years he had found a space where he could just sit and think without feeling rushed. He eventually became a regular and even launched his first book at Artphonso. That moment reaffirmed why I built this space—not just for coffee and food, but for people to find inspiration and a sense of belonging.
Q7. How do you see the connection between law, business, and community-building through your café?
The café, much like my law firm, is about people and problem-solving. In law, I help businesses structure and grow. At Artphonso, I bring those same businesses together—whether through networking events, art shows, or workshops. It’s all connected. I’ve had entrepreneurs come in for coffee and leave with legal advice or artists showcase their work and find buyers. Law, business, and community aren’t separate worlds for me—they’re different expressions of the same vision: creating something meaningful that helps people move forward.
Q8. What’s the most rewarding part of juggling both careers?
The people I meet and the impact I get to create. Whether it’s a start-up I helped set up, a client who found justice, or an artist who found a platform at Artphonso—it all adds up to something bigger. The best part is seeing these businesses, individuals, and ideas grow. And the fact that I get to be part of so many journeys makes all the hard work worth it.
Q9. If you could give one legal tip to small business owners or entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Get your legal foundations right from day one. So many start-ups and small businesses think they can handle legalities “later,” but later is usually when trouble hits. From structuring your business entity to contracts, intellectual property, and compliance—doing it right at the start saves you from expensive mistakes. And don’t just look at law as a necessity—see it as a tool to grow your business safely and sustainably.
Q10. What’s your message for those looking to break stereotypes and follow multiple passions?
Don’t wait for permission. There’s no rule that says you have to choose just one path. I was told that law and hospitality don’t mix. I was told that starting a law firm at 25 was impossible. I was told that a young woman in a male-dominated profession would struggle. But here I am, running a successful law firm and a thriving café, proving that you can build your own world on your own terms. Stereotypes exist to be broken—so go ahead and break them.