Afro Deli Owner Opening Upscale Eatery

Abdirahman Kahin, an immigrant from Somalia, has become a prominent figure in the Twin Cities' culinary landscape since arriving in 1996. His existing Afro Deli restaurants are known for a fast-casual approach, blending African, Mediterranean, and American dishes in a vibrant, accessible setting. This successful model has expanded to four locations across Minneapolis and St. Paul. In 2023, Kahin's entrepreneurial achievements were recognized on a national level when he was named the National Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. This award highlighted his business acumen, community involvement, and resilience, particularly in adapting his business model during the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to grab-and-go products. The new restaurant, Martiya, represents a significant evolution from the Afro Deli brand. It will be a full-service, sit-down establishment with a focus on Somali-fusion cuisine, aiming for a more upscale, "white-tablecloth" experience. This venture is part of Kahin's newly formed Martisoor Hospitality Group, which signals a broader ambition to move into fine dining and event spaces. Martiya's location at the corner of Lake Street and Nicollet Avenue is highly symbolic. This intersection has been the focus of a major urban redevelopment project by the City of Minneapolis, aimed at revitalizing the area and reconnecting the street grid that was once occupied by a Kmart. The new restaurant will be part of a mixed-use development that includes affordable housing and retail space.