A family holiday in 2006 inspired Harminder Singh to move to Fiji and open a restaurant in Suva.
Originally from India, Mr Singh became the founder and owner of Maya Dhaba, an Indian restaurant located on Victoria Parade in Suva serving authentic North Indian cuisine to customers.
The restaurant offers traditional favourites such as Butter Chicken and Chicken Biryani using a delightful mix of Indian spices and flavours.
With business beginning to pick up post-COVID, Mr Singh is looking to open another restaurant in the West.
SunBiz spoke to Mr Singh to learn about his Maya Dhaba menu recommendations and top travel and food experiences in Fiji so far.
What Dishes On The Maya Dhaba Menu Do You Recommend To First-time Visitors?
We see who the guests are.
If there are people from the West, like Australia and New Zealand, we normally recommend Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka, and Garlic Naan – they love that.
Indian people love spicy food, like Lamb Rogan Josh and many other spicy dishes.
Some of the dishes served at Maya Dhaba. Photo: Maya Dhaba
Where Do You Take Friends And Visitors For A Meal And To Relax?
If I’m somewhere, out of the country I try to find Indian food.
But my second option is Italian food, like pasta.
What Are Some Of Your Favourite Travel Destinations In Fiji?
Managing a restaurant is a seven-day job.
But if I get a chance, I visit Nadi and Lautoka for the resorts.
In Fiji, I love to stay in Denarau. I stayed in Momi Bay and that was very nice. It really depends on who is with you and the weather.
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay Over-Water Bungalows.
What Are Your Top Local Bucket-list Destinations?
I want to go to Savusavu, Taveuni, and the Yasawa Islands, which people say are very good but I’ve never been.
The breath-taking island of Taveuni is just a short flight from Nadi International airport.
What Makes Fiji An Attractive Destination To Travel And Do Business In?
Fiji is so beautiful because it is very close to nature.
A lot of development is possible here so a lot of investors love to come here.
Taveuni
Story by: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj