A Chat with a Picton Restauranteer
Rabindra and his wife Sonu embraced the opportunity to carry on the Vaby's Restaurant legacy in 2021, continuing to deliver a beautiful dining experience from the historic Old Cheese Factory in Picton.
Read on to discover what inspired them to take the leap and turn their dream of running a restaurant in Wollondilly into reality.
Let’s start off with a little bit about you
Rabindra: I came to Australia in 2006 to study accounting. While studying, I started working at a café in Cronulla and quickly discovered that my real passion was hospitality. My love for food, bringing people together, and the energy of the hospitality industry pulled me away from accounting and into a life of making people happy through dining at our restaurant, Vaby’s.
Sonu: I grew up in Texas, USA. Through mutual family friends, Rabindra and I started corresponding, fell in love, and married in 2013.
What were you doing 10 years ago?
Rabindra: Ten years ago, back in 2015, I was working in the hospitality scene, gaining hands-on experience in both customer service and managing restaurant operations. I was the Function Coordinator at Cronulla Sharks Leagues Club and Gymea Tradies. It was a busy time, but I loved being part of the action; organising events, leading teams, and learning what it really takes to run a successful venue. Those years definitely helped shape the path that led my wife and I to purchase Vaby’s Restaurant.
What was your first job?
Rabindra: My first job was as a kitchenhand in Cronulla at 18 years old, I knew then that I loved the atmosphere of a busy café and wanted to own my own one day. It is much more exciting than accounting.
What did you want to be when you were young?
Rabindra: I always had a passion for leading and supporting others. Owning my own business was a dream, and now I’m living it! I really enjoy supporting my staff to make Vaby’s a great restaurant and function destination for visitors and the local community.
Tell us a bit about Vaby’s Restaurant
Vaby’s Restaurant started back in 2012, my wife, Sonu and I bought the restaurant 4 years ago. We are lucky to have found this great business in a beautiful Old Cheese Factory in Picton. The heritage building dates back to the 1920s and has so much charm. Together, we have put our hearts into Vaby’s. I manage the kitchen and the food, while Sonu takes care of the front of house - it’s a true team effort.
What sets us apart is the way we treat everyone who walks through the door like family. Our menu has something for everyone, from kids’ meals and fresh seafood to à la carte dining, takeaway, and banquet packages. We also have a beautiful upstairs function space that can seat up to 150 guests; perfect for weddings, special events, and dinner shows. Our next tribute show is a Blondie Tribute on 26 July, dinner and entertainment for just $79! These events are always a great night out with live music and an amazing atmosphere.
Why did you choose Wollondilly for your business?
We chose Wollondilly to get away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney and slow things down a bit. When we discovered the beautiful Old Cheese Factory in Picton, we were instantly drawn to its charm - especially the timber beams and the cosy fireplace. The relaxed country town vibe and sense of community sealed the deal for us. I also saw the potential, with more families and businesses making the move out of the city and it just felt right.
What makes your business successful?
We believe Vaby’s is successful because of the friendly, welcoming atmosphere we’ve created. People don’t just come for the food, they come back because they feel looked after. We take pride in offering personal service and paying attention to the little details that make a difference. Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with the local community, and it’s become a place where families, businesses, and visitors all feel at home. That connection with people is what really keeps Vaby’s going.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Definitely my family and our restaurant. Winning the 2024 Local Business Award for Best Restaurant was an incredible moment, it meant the world to us! We were also proud to be finalists again this year, in 2025.
What is your favourite Wollondilly town and why?
Our favourite Wollondilly town has to be Picton, it’s where Vaby’s is! You walk down the street and people say hello. We love when you drive into Picton, it’s a beautiful place and Vaby’s just feels like home.
What is a must see or do in Wollondilly and why?
One thing you’ve got to do in Wollondilly is take a scenic drive out to Burragorang Lookout. The views are absolutely stunning, it’s the kind of place that makes you stop and take it all in. It’s perfect for a picnic, snapping a few photos and just sitting back to watch a sunset.
Where do you pick up your favourite takeaway in Wollondilly?
One of my favourite spots to grab a takeaway in Wollondilly is La Crèma Café in Picton. They make a great cup of coffee and their cakes are delicious.
Other than your own business, which Wollondilly business is your favourite?
Picton Go Karting is one of my favourite businesses; it’s great fun. Many of our customers head there first and then come to Vaby’s for a meal afterward.
Do you have any new plans for your business you would like to share?
Yes, we’d really love to focus on hosting more weddings and special events. We have a beautiful upstairs function space at Vaby’s that’s perfect for celebrations, whether it’s weddings, engagements, birthdays or corporate gatherings (we regularly host Picton Rotary in our private upstairs dining room). With its timber beams, sandstone walls, and historic charm, Vaby’s offers a warm and intimate setting that’s ideal for memorable celebrations.
We also create tailored packages that make it easy for people to plan their events. It’s something we’re really passionate about, and we think Vaby’s has so much potential as a go-to venue for memorable celebrations in the Wollondilly. Our dream is to see more couples and families making lifelong memories right here at our place.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
We’d love to expand Vaby’s into a franchise. The previous owner had multiple restaurants, and we're inspired to grow the Vaby’s brand into other locations, especially with the new Western Sydney Airport opening soon. That’s a big part of the dream!
