Fatima’s Grill: How an ex-con turned prison cooking into a viral hit and $1M business – CNBC Make It

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Ali Elreda Opens Multiple Locations of Fatima’s Grill

Ali Elreda has expanded his popular restaurant Fatima’s Grill, which serves a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican-American cuisines. The original location, opened in 2016 in Downey, California, has become a viral sensation on social media, with a large following on TikTok and Instagram. The bright colors and unique flavor combinations have drawn in customers from far and wide, leading to the opening of six new locations across Southern California, New York, and Texas, as well as plans for further expansion into Atlanta, Cleveland, and Canada in the future.

The success of Fatima’s Grill is particularly remarkable given Elreda’s background. After struggling to find a job in professional kitchens, he eventually purchased a small grill from a cousin and began experimenting with a blend of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. The popularity of his inventive dishes led to the opening of the original Fatima’s Grill, and the rest is history.

Despite the challenges of managing a growing business, Elreda remains actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the original Fatima’s Grill. He remains committed to maintaining his daily routine and is dedicated to being hands-on in the kitchen for as long as he is able.

The Franchise Creator, a consulting firm based in Miami, has been instrumental in guiding Elreda through the franchising process. While there have been some setbacks, including the closure of a Detroit location due to franchise violations, Elreda considers the overall process a success.

As Fatima’s Grill continues to flourish, Elreda’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to turn adversity into opportunity. With his ongoing dedication and a loyal customer base, the future of Fatima’s Grill looks promising.

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