Latest news with #NatashaSideris
Arabian Post
08-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Boutique Dining Giant Tashas Accelerates Global Roll‑Out
Dubai‑based hospitality firm Tashas Group is entering a rapid new phase of expansion across the Middle East and South Africa, with founder Natasha Sideris spearheading a strategy that balances boutique charm with accelerated growth. Operating 40 venues in five countries—including 18 in South Africa, 17 across the UAE, three in Saudi Arabia, and single locations in Bahrain and the UK—the group plans to open a further 15 to 16 restaurants over the next 18 months. Sideris describes a shift from a cautious rollout to full‑throttle expansion. 'We've had very slow and steady growth… now we have an army,' she told Arabian Business, adding that this year alone may see five or six new launches and a first Saudi opening in September. Among the fresh locations are new tashas cafés in Al Ain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, an Avli venue in Bahrain, alongside six further sites in South Africa. Sideris emphasises that despite the surge in numbers, each venue remains carefully curated. She maintains an 'attention to detail' ethos across interiors, menus and service, preserving the brand's boutique identity even at scale. 'Not too smart, not mainstream casual. It's elevated casual,' she said, underlining the group's market niche in Dubai's competitive hospitality environment. ADVERTISEMENT This accelerated expansion follows the 2020 buy‑back of the group from Famous Brands, restoring majority control to Sideris, her brother Savva, and a minority partner during the pandemic. The founder views the reopening of growth avenues as a chance to give back: the group is in the process of establishing an employee share ownership programme to reward long‑serving staff. Development includes a varied brand portfolio. Beyond tashas cafés, the group operates upscale venues such as Flamingo Room by Tashas, Avli by Tashas, Bungalo34 and NALA. Upcoming concepts include Arlecchino by Tashas, a premium casual Italian eatery, and Café Sofi in Cape Town, named for Sideris's late mother. There are also plans for expansion in Europe, the US and Asia via franchising, with NALA earmarked for up to 300 global outlets. The group's regional strategy is evident in its UAE focus. It aims to penetrate less saturated Emirates—Sharjah, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah—using both flagship and franchise models. In Saudi Arabia, Tashas plans to open its first beach‑side Bungalo34 venue in RAK and its first restaurant in Riyadh in September. While maintaining quality remains a non‑negotiable, Sideris has acknowledged the escalating cost of expansion in the region. On Dubai Eye 103.8, she revealed that opening new venues carries a projection of AED 9–10 million, depending on format and location. Tashas Group has also invested heavily in infrastructure to support its growth. The Dubai HQ has assembled cross‑regional teams in both the Middle East and South Africa, training more than 14 staff in each locale to manage openings. The group is also launching The Academy, a centre in Dubai dedicated to staff training and hospitality excellence. Sideris points to Southern African staff culture as a key differentiator in their global venues. Initially insisting on 70 percent South African staff in Dubai, that figure has shifted to around 25 percent, yet the brand's core still reflects Southern African warmth and service ethos. As the group builds momentum, scrutiny of quality is intensifying. Sideris oversees monthly audits across kitchens and front of house to ensure consistency across the expanding footprint. The aim is a consistent yet location‑aware experience—whether in Cape Town, Dubai or London—with each venue inspired by its setting.
Gulf Business
05-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
From café to empire: Natasha Sideris on Tashas Group's Middle East rise
When Natasha Sideris opened the first tashas restaurant in Johannesburg's Atholl Square in 2005, she never imagined it would grow into an international dining empire. Now based in Dubai, Sideris is leading one of the most ambitious expansions in global hospitality, taking her boutique approach to dining far beyond her native South Africa. Today, Tashas Group operates 40 restaurants across five countries. Of these, 18 are located in South Africa, 17 in the UAE, 3 in Saudi Arabia, 1 in Bahrain, and 1 in the UK. With 15 additional openings scheduled in the next 18 months, the group is on track for continued expansion across its core markets. 'I always said I would never go into the food business,' Sideris laughs, recalling her childhood. 'My father was a restaurateur, and I saw how hard it was. The only day we spent with him was Mondays, when restaurants closed in South Africa. He'd take us to The Doll's House for steak rolls and milkshakes. But otherwise, he was always working.' While studying psychology at university, her father convinced her to help out at his busy Fishmonger restaurant in Rivonia, a suburb in northern Johannesburg. 'I'd go to lectures during the day, my apron in the boot of the car. Then I'd work from four in the afternoon until one or two in the morning,' she recalls. 'I fell in love with the adrenaline and the customer interaction.' 'Working in restaurants combines everything I love: people, interiors, the way spaces make you feel, and of course, food. Growing up in a Greek household, food was always at the centre of everything.' The birth of tashas After years working with her father and running several restaurants, including a successful turnaround of a Nino's outlet, an opportunity came knocking. A landlord who admired her work offered her a site if she created her own brand. Sideris brainstormed dozens of names before finally agreeing to name it after herself. 'The landlord kept saying, 'Call it tashas.' I was hesitant, but eventually I said, 'OK, let's go for it.'' From its very first day, tashas in Johannesburg's upmarket Atholl Square was packed. That restaurant opening marked the beginning of the tashas journey and, by 2008, just three years later, Sideris sold a majority 51 per cent stake to JSE-listed food group Famous Brands. 'It was a good deal at the time,' she explains. 'I had two restaurants. They offered corporate governance, admin systems, procurement.' The partnership proved valuable in the early years, but eventually, Sideris realised she was doing all the heavy lifting. 'I was driving everything myself, especially once I moved to Dubai,' she says. COVID-19 provided an unexpected opportunity. 'It was devastating globally, but for me, it allowed me to renegotiate and buy the business back. Now, it's just myself, my brother Savva Sideris, and a minority partner who own the group.' The Dubai move In 2014, Sideris made the bold decision to open in Dubai – a move that would fuel international growth. 'South Africa was saturated. The UK and US had too many barriers to entry. Dubai made sense: close to South Africa, culturally familiar, with an incredible hospitality scene. Greeks and Arabs share a love for family, food, and generosity.' That move has proven transformative, given the global expansion her business has experienced. While many brands lose their identity as they grow, Sideris insists on maintaining what she calls 'boutique at scale.' 'Every venue we open feels as carefully crafted as the first. We want customers to feel a genuine sense of place and hospitality wherever they visit,' she says. That commitment includes maintaining South African staff culture even as the business grows internationally. 'When we opened our first store in Galleria Mall here in Dubai, I insisted that 70 per cent of the staff had to be South African. Today we aim for 25 per cent, but South Africans and Zimbabweans are still a core part of our DNA.' Pictured: Avli by tashas in DIFC reflects Natasha Sideris's expanding portfolio and premium positioning in the UAE's culinary scene. A new phase of growth The next phase of growth will take the group deeper into international markets. Luxury concepts such as Flamingo Room by tashas, Avli by tashas (now open in both Dubai and Bahrain), and Bungalo34 are being positioned for major cities and beach destinations across Europe, the US, and Asia. Meanwhile, the casual dining formats, especially NALA and tashas, are slated for broad expansion via franchising globally. New concepts launching this year include Arlecchino by tashas , a premium casual Italian offering, and Café Sofi , an ode to Sideris' late mother, opening in Cape Town. The group's expansion strategy balances flagship-owned venues with selective franchising. Sideris remains intimately involved in interiors, food, drinks and branding. 'I'm not involved in admin or training day-to-day: my teams are excellent at that,' she says. 'But I still sign off on every interior design, every dish, every beverage, every piece of marketing. It's my passion.' 'In the beginning, it was partly about money and partly for the love of it,' she reflects. 'Now, it's about legacy and creating opportunities for our people. We're building an ESOP (employee share ownership programme) because I want those who have been with us to benefit long-term.' She sums it up simply: 'I want people to say we created something special, that we made a difference in people's lives.'
What's On
25-06-2025
- What's On
You can now order from Dubai's coolest canteen on Deliveroo
If you don't know about NALA, let us enlighten you. Cafeterias and corner shops are a-plenty in Dubai, serving up quick, fuss-free fare that will satisfy your hunger speedily. Fast and casual – two things everyone loves – they make our lives easier, and while a roadside rodeo is just what we need sometimes, this is Dubai and of course, we have a fancy version of that experience. NALA in Alserkal Avenue is perhaps Dubai's only boujee canteen. Brought to you by tashas Group, parent company of iconic hotspots like Flamingo Room, tashas, Avli and Bungalo34, and helmed by the formidable F&B force Natasha Sideris, this is a new brand of fast-casual dining – a complete flip on its head. NALA opened doors in The Yard at Alserkal Avenue earlier this year, and serves up gourmet delights on the round-time of a McDonalds without compromising on any of the goodness and flavour. Think of all the comfort foods you might crave – that's what they have to offer. Takeout tales The big news is that NALA is now available on Deliveroo, so all their delicious varieties are now available to savour any time, anywhere, from day to night. In the day, you can order from a breakfast menu featuring favourites like creamy corn – parmesan polenta with grilled corn, crispy corn bites, bacon bits, and a golden egg, or the banana and pecan loaf, served with whipped brown sugar butter. From noon, the menu switches up, with options like the eggplant salad, dressed in sticky miso and preserved chilli, the green pasta, the SOF pita and the Harry's Roadhouse stacked with sliced sirloin, Harry's basting, shaved red onions, tomato, iceberg lettuce, and pickles on soft white sliced bread. In true canteen fashion, they also have snacks – specialty cookies, available in six flavours, from spiced caramel to double chocolate. All dishes are priced between Dhs26 and Dhs62. Then there's beverages, with all your coffee house classics served alongside fruity smoothies, innovative mocktails, and bubbly homemade sodas served in NALA branded cans. But if you still want to dine in You can dine-in, choosing between a table indoors in the simple but welcoming canteen-style restaurant, or bask in the lovely sunshine on the tables outside at The Yard. Or if you're in a rush, grab and go from the out-facing counter. And did we mention it's pet-friendly, with water bowls and a help-yourself jar of treats for your four-legged friend? There is also a retail section, so you can shop an array of salts, spices, pickles and sodas to recreate your favourite NALA dishes at home. NALA, The Yard, Alserkal Avenue, daily 9am to 10pm, available on Deliveroo, @enjoynala Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Mid East Info
22-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Avli by tashas Opens in Bahrain, Bringing True Athenian Hospitality to Manama - Middle East Business News and Information
Avli by tashas, developed by renowned restaurateur Natasha Sideris officially opens its doors in Bahrain on June 20. The restaurant is part of the portfolio of Harve, an initiative of Bahrain-based Infracorp. Following the success of its multi-award-winning flagship in Dubai, recognised by the Michelin Guide, Avli Bahrain brings the spirit of the Mediterranean to the heart of Bahrain. This distinctive experience has been brought to Bahrain by Harve, which specializes in refined hospitality and immersive cultural experiences. Harve aims to redefine the regional lifestyle scene by introducing innovative concepts that blend art, cuisine, and design. An intimate evolution of the Avli experience, the Bahrain space offers a lounge-style layout, inviting both convivial gatherings and quiet moments of connection. Guests are welcomed into an atmosphere of soulful elegance, featuring a large collection of antiques, meticulously curated by Tashas Group visual stylist Nicky Greig and founder Natasha Sideris, contributing to a space that feels richly layered and storied. The design journey is further enriched by collaborations with celebrated international artists. At the entrance, hand-drawn murals by artist Alexandra Ross, inspired by ancient Greek frescos, lend the space a timeless sensibility. Suspended above the main dining area is a poetic fabric installation by Elonah O'Neil Reid, reminiscent of laundry lines in a sunlit courtyard – a tribute to the name Avli, meaning 'courtyard' in Greek. Ceramic artist from Athens, Keti Anastasaki, contributes a striking three-dimensional artwork to the restaurant's exterior, while intricate mosaic designs by artist Marina Ehlers bring added texture and visual richness to the space. 'We're thrilled to become part of Bahrain's vibrant dining landscape,' said Tashas Group CEO and Founder, Natasha Sideris. 'There's such appreciation here for quality and genuine hospitality, which perfectly aligns with our philosophy that every guest should feel like family from the moment they step through our doors.' 'Avli embodies the kind of experience we're passionate about creating—spaces where guests feel immediately at ease, where the design and food invite connection,' commented Abdulaziz Tawfeeqi, the Senior Director of Project Development at Infracorp. 'It's a perfect reflection of the hospitality culture we value deeply in Bahrain.' At the heart of the experience is the à la carte menu crafted by Head Chef Vlassia Anagnostou. Drawing from the rich heritage of Greek cuisine, the menu features a refined mix of signature favourites and dishes that speak to the soul of Mediterranean cooking. Head Chef Vlassia commented, 'I want our guests in Bahrain to experience the soul of Greece – in a way that feels relevant today. Our menu honours timeless flavours, reimagined with contemporary presentation to spark conversation and bring people together.' Experience the soul of rich, Athenian culture at Avli Bahrain, where every meal is an occasion and every guest becomes family. To make your reservation, call +973 77 222111 or email bahrain@ ENDS About Avli by tashas: Avli by tashas is a licensed concept from restaurateur Natasha Sideris, the CEO and Founder of Tashas Group. Inspired by Natasha's Greek heritage and passion for combining exquisite tastes, beautiful environments, and impeccable service, Avli is tailored to be a unique reflection of culinary traditions. The restaurant takes its cue from Athens, the seat of the world's most famous poets, philosophers, artists, and the root of Natasha's heritage. Located in Bahrain Harbour, Avli is reminiscent of the open-air courtyards of the Mediterranean, where every meal is an occasion, each moment is a celebration and friends become family. The food, showcasing Natasha's Greek heritage and roots, includes fabulous meze, salads, vegan delicacies, seafood, and slow-cooked meats exuding the simplicity of authentic Mediterranean flavours. Each dish at Avli is created with heart and authenticity, backed by the sourcing of many ingredients directly from Greece. Instagram: @avlibytashasbahrain Facebook: Location & Timings: Bahrain Harbour, Manama, Bahrain Sunday-Wednesday: 17:30 PM – 1O:45 PM Thursday-Saturday: 17:30 PM – 11:45 PM Avli by tashas reservations: Phone: +973 77 222111 bahrain@ About Infracorp: Infracorp B.S.C., is a company specialised in investing in the infrastructure and sustainability development sector, with a capital of USD 1.2 billion. Infracorp manages a portfolio of nearly USD 3 billion in infrastructure assets, including a 250 million square feet land bank in the GCC, North Africa and South Asia, which is earmarked for sustainable economic and social infrastructure. Infracorp's sustainability strategy is designed to generate strong long-term returns for investors through proactive management of ESG risks, and by embracing opportunities for value creation in the sustainable investment ecosystem. The Company focuses on investments in developing communities and investing in logistics and technologies that support sustainability and renewables, as well as social infrastructure assets across the education and healthcare sectors. For more information about Infracorp, visit Press Contact: Obai & Hill Communications Agency info@ | +973 1753 6092
Biz Bahrain
20-06-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Avli by tashas Opens in Bahrain, Bringing True Athenian Hospitality to Manama
Avli by tashas, developed by renowned restaurateur Natasha Sideris officially opens its doors in Bahrain on June 20. The restaurant is part of the portfolio of Harve, an initiative of Bahrain-based Infracorp. Following the success of its multi-award-winning flagship in Dubai, recognised by the Michelin Guide, Avli Bahrain brings the spirit of the Mediterranean to the heart of Bahrain. This distinctive experience has been brought to Bahrain by Harve, which specializes in refined hospitality and immersive cultural experiences. Harve aims to redefine the regional lifestyle scene by introducing innovative concepts that blend art, cuisine, and design. An intimate evolution of the Avli experience, the Bahrain space offers a lounge-style layout, inviting both convivial gatherings and quiet moments of connection. Guests are welcomed into an atmosphere of soulful elegance, featuring a large collection of antiques, meticulously curated by Tashas Group visual stylist Nicky Greig and founder Natasha Sideris, contributing to a space that feels richly layered and storied. The design journey is further enriched by collaborations with celebrated international artists. At the entrance, hand-drawn murals by artist Alexandra Ross, inspired by ancient Greek frescos, lend the space a timeless sensibility. Suspended above the main dining area is a poetic fabric installation by Elonah O'Neil Reid, reminiscent of laundry lines in a sunlit courtyard – a tribute to the name Avli, meaning 'courtyard' in Greek. Ceramic artist from Athens, Keti Anastasaki, contributes a striking three-dimensional artwork to the restaurant's exterior, while intricate mosaic designs by artist Marina Ehlers bring added texture and visual richness to the space. 'We're thrilled to become part of Bahrain's vibrant dining landscape,' said Tashas Group CEO and Founder, Natasha Sideris. 'There's such appreciation here for quality and genuine hospitality, which perfectly aligns with our philosophy that every guest should feel like family from the moment they step through our doors.' 'Avli embodies the kind of experience we're passionate about creating—spaces where guests feel immediately at ease, where the design and food invite connection,' commented Abdulaziz Tawfeeqi, the Senior Director of Project Development at Infracorp. 'It's a perfect reflection of the hospitality culture we value deeply in Bahrain.' At the heart of the experience is the à la carte menu crafted by Head Chef Vlassia Anagnostou. Drawing from the rich heritage of Greek cuisine, the menu features a refined mix of signature favourites and dishes that speak to the soul of Mediterranean cooking. Head Chef Vlassia commented, 'I want our guests in Bahrain to experience the soul of Greece – in a way that feels relevant today. Our menu honours timeless flavours, reimagined with contemporary presentation to spark conversation and bring people together.' Experience the soul of rich, Athenian culture at Avli Bahrain, where every meal is an occasion and every guest becomes family. To make your reservation, call +973 77 222111 or email [email protected].
