Lemongrass: Athif at the root

Nowadays, finding a Maldivian who has never been to a Lemongrass restaurant would be next to impossible.

Without a doubt, Lemongrass is one of the most popular eateries in Male’ City, and the team behind it has enjoyed a remarkable success story. A venture that started out with nothing but strong determination, has grown into a booming business with five outlets in the capital city alone. Behind this prosperous chain, which has revolutionised the Maldivian food industry, is the Founder and Managing Director of Lemongrass Abdulla Athif.

Lemongrass opened its doors to the public 19 years ago, with a vision of providing quality, memorable dining experiences in Male’. Armed with F&B expertise gained during his tenure at various resorts, Athif unveiled the first restaurant in the bustling capital city.

Athif shed light on the factors crucial to keep a restaurant running smoothly in the long run.

Athif’s recipe for success lists three uncompromisable ingredients; top-notch services, delicious servings and a hygienic environment.

The biggest accomplishment for any eatery is to be favoured and beloved by the public, and this certainly holds true for Lemongrass. Since the chain entered the restaurant scene it has gained rapid popularity as a local brand in the F&B industry, cementing its status as a favourite among locals and foreigners alike.

The founder of the restaurant confidently assures readers that Lemongrass’ most noteworthy achievement is the overwhelming response it has continuously received from loyal, returning customers.

Passionately insisting that the restaurant always aims to provide the best possible services to customers, he attributed Lemongrass’ success over the past two decades, a ‘millennium’ in the F&B world, to this pivotal point.

The successful businessman further spoke of the particular challenges concerning the operations behind an F&B business, highlighting that the most difficult task was finding candidates that met the required experience and skill set. According to Athif, finding trained locals proved to be the most challenging. Currently, Lemongrass employs 290 talented individuals across their five outlets, who serve up unparalleled dishes with sincere devotion.

In the future, Lemongrass plans to open a branch in Hulhumale’, and in doing so, bringing their appetizing offerings to the City of Youth, garnering even more foodie-fans who would surely leave their doors thoroughly satisfied.