Minneapolis Gets Upscale African Restaurant

Abdirahman Kahin, who immigrated to the United States from Somalia in 1996, was named the 2023 National Small Business Person of the Year. His journey from working at a media company to founding the successful Afro Deli & Grill showcases a commitment to fresh, healthy, and accessible African food. Kahin's vision extends beyond his current four locations, with aspirations to create the first national African restaurant chain in the U.S. Martiya represents a significant evolution from the fast-casual format of Afro Deli. It is the first full-service, sit-down restaurant from Kahin's Martisoor Hospitality group, aiming to elevate the perception of Somali cuisine. The restaurant is described as a "Somali-fusion" concept, suggesting a modern dining room and a menu that moves beyond quick counter-service fare to include potential tasting menus and specials. The restaurant will be located in a new apartment building at Nicollet and 31st Street, on the site of a former Wells Fargo that was burned down during the 2020 protests. This location is part of the broader "New Nicollet Redevelopment" project, a massive 10-acre plan by the city to reconnect Nicollet Avenue, which was severed in the 1970s for the construction of a Kmart. The New Nicollet Redevelopment is a multi-year project aiming to transform the area with affordable housing, retail space, and a public park. The first phase of construction, which includes the site of Martiya, is focused on the southeast corner of the former Kmart lot. The entire redevelopment is anticipated to be a "generational investment" in the community.