The valuation of the African restaurant business industry has witnessed a substantial upswing in recent times.
With the world’s palate becoming more attuned to unique flavours and cultural experiences, African cuisine has transcended its regional boundaries to establish a global presence.
As the global restaurant industry continues to evolve, encompassing a diverse range of dining options and consumer preferences, one name stands out in the journey to redefine culinary experiences for the Nigerians in the diaspora market – Olushola Medupin. Co-founder of Enish Restaurant, not only reshaping the perception of African cuisine but also contributing his quota within capacity to the thriving economic landscape of the restaurant industry worth an estimated $1.5 trillion as of 2022.
In this exploration of Olushola Medupin’s journey, Nairametrics unearths the dynamic landscape of the African restaurant in the diaspora.
How it all began
Owner of the self-acclaimed, largest African chain of restaurants, Olushola’s roots trace back to a small-scale family restaurant business in Ilorin, reflecting a lineage in culinary ventures.
- “My great-grandparents, grandparents and, mum were in the restaurant business. My mum had a restaurant then, in Illorin precisely and she was number one there, “ he revealed in an interview.
His financial acumen became evident early on, as he made his first million by the age of 16. Following his academic pursuits, he embraced entrepreneurship in 2003, venturing into diverse endeavours.
First, he established a business centre and a phone repair shop, setting the stage for his journey to the United Kingdom. The year 2005 marked this bold leap.
Olushola left Nigeria and by 2013, Enish Restaurant was born. The name, Enish is a combination of his and his wife’s names, Shola and Eniola Medupin.
From a phone repair business in Nigeria to owning a car wash and eventually serving as a restaurant porter in the UK, his story highlights the power of ambition.
Overcoming initial challenges, he independently handled the crucial initial two years of daily operations, before hiring skilled professionals to streamline day-to-day operations.
How did Olushola Medupin grow his business?
In an episode of “Made in Africa,” Olushola Medupin engages with Youtuber and Filmmaker Tayo Aina, shedding light on his entrepreneurial journey. Situated in London, United Kingdom, Olushola steers Enish Restaurant toward becoming one of the fastest-growing culinary chains, boasting a notable presence across England and Dubai.
Collaborating with DJ Cuppy showcased Olushola’s marketing savvy, enhancing Enish’s brand visibility. Undeterred by initial concerns related to racism and cultural differences abroad, he forged ahead, establishing a London branch and subsequently crafting a portfolio of nine interwoven restaurant chains spread across the cities.
- “ I always see opportunities wherever I go,” is a mantra that has defined the course of his journey from Nigeria to the UK.
Enish’s influence extends across borders, reaching Dubai with two significant branches valued at $3 million. These locations require monthly rentals ranging between $40,000 and $45,000. Olushola’s visionary aspirations transcend geographical boundaries, encompassing plans to consolidate London while establishing a footprint in the United States.
According to TripAdvisor, Enish’s food menu in Dubai ranges from N31,462 to N62,925. In the London Finchley Road branch, meal costs span between N9,770 and N29,311.
More insight
In February 2020, Enish inaugurated its flagship Dubai outlet along Sheik Zayed Road. Subsequently, a lavish establishment in Dubai’s Palms Jumeirah neighbourhood in 2022 showcased Enish’s commitment to excellence. Esteemed boxer Floyd Mayweather’s endorsement solidified Enish’s status as a premier Dubai restaurant destination.
With a far-reaching presence spanning 11 outlets globally, including its UK base, Enish Restaurant cements its position as one of the world’s most expansive Nigerian culinary chains.
The newly inaugurated Enish Palm Restaurant in Dubai offers breathtaking views of the Atlantis and the world’s largest musical fountain a testament to Olushola Medupin’s journey and Enish’s extraordinary culinary vision.
Over the course of Olushola’s 10-year business operation celebrities like Akon, Anthony Joshua and Tyler the creator have patronised his restaurant.
