Dubai – Setting Up A Restaurant in Dubai

Nana Serwa Mancell, a Ghanaian entrepreneur, has lived in Dubai for over 23 years. She graduated from the University of Kent with an LLB in law and is the founder and CEO of Veghana, a Dubai-based restaurant that masterfully blends healthy vegan food with aromatic Ghanaian cuisine. Veghana was awarded the Most Innovative Restaurant in the Middle East in 2022.

In an interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Nana shared her journey of starting a restaurant in Dubai and why she chose this vibrant city. During the COVID-19 pandemic, after losing her job, Nana began cooking West African food for her friends who did not eat meat. Recognizing a unique niche market, she decided to turn her culinary passion into a business.

With over two decades of experience living in Dubai, Nana, a communications expert, knew how to build a brand in the city. However, she is still navigating the intricacies of the food industry. She mentioned that doing business as a woman in Dubai is relatively easy, thanks to the supportive environment.

Regarding sourcing ingredients, Nana revealed that Dubai grows about 80% of its food, with items like plantains being imported from neighboring countries like Sri Lanka. For authentic Ghanaian flavors, she recruited three local chefs from Ghana who specialize in traditional dishes.

Nana is eager to expand Veghana’s menu by incorporating other African cuisines, particularly Nigerian dishes. As a female entrepreneur, she emphasizes the importance of trusting her instincts.

Looking ahead, Nana envisions growing Veghana’s presence throughout the Middle East, sharing the rich and diverse flavors of African vegan cuisine with a broader audience.

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