From waiter to proud restaurant owner
Looking ahead, the ambitious 36-year-old envisions expanding his footprint across the province, aspiring to a future where franchises of his successful establishments are accessible to a broader audience.
Fuelled by a deep passion for food and a determination to overcome financial constraints, former waiter Jacob Mthembu is now the proud owner of three thriving restaurants.
The Hambanathi resident’s businesses include Kasi Taste in Ballito, with a branch in Tongaat, and Kasi Meals at the Work Station in Umhlali.
Mthembu’s culinary aspirations took root at the age of 16 when he began working as a waiter, diligently saving to fund his enrolment at the ICESA Chef School.
Juggling day classes with night shifts in Ballito, he would catch up on sleep while commuting on trains.
His journey continued with various restaurant roles as an intern chef and restaurant manager until 2014 when the entrepreneurial spark ignited.
His first restaurant in Groutville did not do well, leading to a strategic relocation to Ballito in 2015.
Kasi Taste in Ballito offers curry and traditional Zulu cuisine, while the Tongaat branch specialises in chicken dishes only.
Kasi Meals stands out for its popular breakfast menu and coffee offerings, setting it apart from the competition.
Looking ahead, the ambitious 36-year-old envisions expanding his footprint across the province, aspiring to a future where franchises of his successful establishments are accessible to a broader audience.
For Mthembu, success is not just a personal achievement but a responsibility to inspire his community.
“When you come from a disadvantaged community, it is not only your family and workers that depend on you.
Many young people in the township look up to you because, to them, you are a walking sign that says despite all the challenges one can make it. You do not want to disappoint them.”
His message to aspirant entrepreneurs is that they must be prepared to work hard, perhaps twice as much as if they were employed, and listening to their customers.
“Customer feedback is the only true measure of assessing your success. Taking care of your employees is another crucial component as they are responsible for ensuring product quality,” said Mthembu.
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