Today we’d like to introduce you to Mobolanle Arafat
Hi Mobolanle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Arafat Mobolanle Abari, and I am the founder of Asake’s Kitchen, which I officially launched in May 2020. My journey with cooking began at the age of 13, inspired by my mom’s love for making jollof rice, her favorite dish. She would prepare it multiple times a week, and watching her in the kitchen ignited my passion for cooking. I started experimenting with simple meals like noodles, and over time, I found cooking to be more than just a daily activity—it became a form of art and a way to express myself.
Turning my passion into a business was a big step, but I was motivated by my love for Nigerian cuisine and the desire to share its rich flavors and cultural heritage with others. At Asake’s Kitchen, I focus on creating authentic Nigerian dishes that bring comfort and joy to my customers. For me, cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s about storytelling, creativity, and connecting with people through every meal.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been an easy journey, especially starting at such a young age. I launched Asake’s Kitchen when I was just 18, and one of the biggest challenges I faced, and still deal with—is that some people find it hard to believe that “a little girl” like me can cook professionally. I constantly had to prove myself and show that my passion and skills were real.
It was also difficult to put my business out there in the beginning. Being new to entrepreneurship, I had to figure out how to market myself, build trust with customers, and grow my brand, all while staying focused on delivering quality food.
Despite these challenges, I’ve stayed committed to my vision and passion for cooking. The struggles have pushed me to grow, and they make every milestone I achieve even more meaningful.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Asake’s Kitchen specializes in authentic Nigerian street food, focusing on delicious finger foods like small chops and Nigerian pastries. I aim to bring the flavors many miss from Nigeria, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. In addition to the tasty meals, I’m working on food decorating and setup to make the experience even more special. What sets Asake’s Kitchen apart is our dedication to authenticity and creating memorable meals that connect people to Nigerian culture.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me by partnering for catering events, food collaborations, or any projects that align with Asake’s Kitchen. To support, simply try our meals, share your experience, and spread the word. Following us on social media and engaging with our content also helps. If you’re hosting an event, I’d love to cater and bring a taste of Nigerian street food to your gathering!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asakeskitchenn?igsh=MWFrYWI1ZWR5MDhzaQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashakeskitchen_?_t=ZT-8tHyGmTRhtu&_r=1
