Opened in Navi Mumbai, India
In August 2006, a restaurant named Hitler’s Cross Café opened in Navi Mumbai, India. The establishment quickly drew international attention due to its controversial theme, which featured Adolf Hitler as part of its branding. The café used Nazi symbols, including a swastika, in its logo and décor.
Backlash and Protests
The café’s theme sparked outrage locally and globally. Jewish groups, the Israeli consulate in Mumbai, and others strongly condemned the use of Hitler’s image and Nazi symbols in a public establishment. Protests followed, and the restaurant was widely criticized in the media.
Owner’s Response
The owner, Punit Shomal, claimed that he chose the name to attract attention and admitted that he was unaware of the full extent of Hitler’s atrocities during World War II. The backlash led him to quickly reconsider the decision.
Name Change
Under mounting pressure, the café was renamed Cross Café within weeks of its opening. The swastika was removed from the logo, and the establishment distanced itself from the Hitler theme entirely.
Hitler’s Cross Café: The Restaurant That Had to Change Its Name 🍖
1/2: Opened in Navi Mumbai, India
In August 2006, a restaurant named Hitler’s Cross Café opened in Navi Mumbai, India. The establishment quickly drew international attention due to its controversial theme, which… pic.twitter.com/csChtzzee7— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TBBOB2) September 18, 2024