Ayodele Akinnifesi, a Bachelor of Arts holder in History and International studies is the CEO of Taste The Occasion. Growing up, Ayo had always been drawn to cooking, therefore it was not much of a surprise when he decided to delve into the culinary business.
Chef AY like he is fondly called has a priority which is to serve ‘great tasty healthy’ meals at all times.
Eager to inspire the next generation, he made out time to grant a delightful interview with Barenedaily.
Read Below….
Barenedaily -Thank you for granting us your time. Let’s get right to it: Thank you for having me. Yes, let’s start.
Tell us about yourself: My name is Akinnifesi Ayodele A.K.A Chef AY. I am the founder and CEO of Taste The Occasion.
May we know about your Educational Background: I graduated from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba ,Ondo state in 2010 where I bagged a degree in History and International Studies.
Did You start your business after you graduated?: No i didn’t. I took up a job with Demarriot hotel and suites as the General manager from 2010-2014. I later became an Assistant chef at golden tulip hotel. I moved on to be the Head Chef at Jollydiner from 2016 to 2018.
That must have been quite an interesting journey for you: Yes it was.
How did your passion for cooking begin?: I have always loved cooking from childhood. I did my first cooking job when i was in senior secondary school 2. It has always been a hobby so I decided to make money from my hobby. Cooking is one thing I could do for days without getting tired.
Do you have a formal training?: I took a short culinary course at DE Gordons institute of tafe, France. The course was majorly on continental dishes as local dishes had already been learnt from my mum and from a family friend and neighbor- Mrs Orukumayo.
Tell us about the services you offer: We supply offices hot lunch meals, we do soups, sauces and stews in litres. We handle general catering, private dinners and also house cooking. Anything that has to do with good food, just call us. You can always count on us for great healthy meals.
Could you please share some of your challenges while starting your business: Start up capital and market prices were challenges for me. People want the best of meals at the lowest prices. Another major challenge is having people trust your food.
Anything you wished you knew before you started?: Nothing I can think of for now. We learn everyday and i wish for more connection. Though God is the greatest connector, with Him I am fine.
What’s the current state of your business?: The business is roughly two years now though I have been operating unprofessionally far before then. It has been rewarding but we still seek more clients. I presently have 3 permanent staff ( 2 kitchen assistant and a dispatch rider). I also get helping hands from my students. I own a catering institute called Express chef delivery services located at badore, ajah, Lagos
Wow! That’s impressive. Its safe to say you’ve done well for yourself: Thanks a lot
Two years into this venture, is there anything you still find difficult?: Convincing a first time client to patronize you is one of the most difficult things. Also when there is an increase in price of food stuffs, we still have to maintain our taste and quality so that brings about lesser profit.
How do you source for clients?: I get my clients from online promotion and face to face marketing. My instagram page is @tasteoccasion.
What is your long term vision?: I hope to have lounges and restaurants at choice areas…Different branches like mega chicken and The Place.
What do you find most thrilling about your business?: The compliments I receive everyday from customers. The act of cooking too is very exciting.
What sets you apart from other culinary outfits?: My food is unique. I am very generous with ingredients. Also I’m very particular with cleanliness and healthy meals.. For example I would rather use basmati rice and sun flower oil for my fried rice to reduce it’s cholesterol content.
How do you relax?: I watch movies, hangout with friends, surf the net, chats.
How do you balance work and life commitments?: My work life is a hobby so I don’t need to balance it. (laughs). I make my meals from home so it doesn’t even look like I am working.Then there aren’t really any commitments yet cause I’m not married or dating.
Oh wow! I’m sure the ladies were waiting for that information: -laughs-
How would you advise newbies wanting to tow the same line as you?: Majorly I would advise them to be patient. Don’t think you can start and immediately have so much customers like mega chicken. Rome wasn’t built in a day. I would also advise them to be consistent in their food taste. It’s very key. Try also to be honorable, keep your word to your clients.
Great advice there from you. Thank you so much chef AY. You’ve been a great sport. I’m sure you have inspired lots of people out there: My pleasure and I had a great time too.
I hope you, our dear readers have learnt a thing or two. Please remember to share your thoughts in the comment section.