In the heart of Lewiston, two inspiring sisters have turned their dreams into reality, defying odds while serving up delicious Afghan cuisine. Meet Nelofar and Shaqaeq Ahmadi, whose venture, Royal Chicken & Kabab, is not just a restaurant but a beacon of hope and resilience.
A Taste of Home
After fleeing the Taliban, the Ahmadi sisters embarked on a remarkable journey that led them from refugee camps to the welcoming community of Maine. Their goal was simple yet profound: to find a new home and share their rich culinary heritage with their new neighbors. Royal Chicken & Kabab serves traditional Afghan dishes, and their homemade naan, baked fresh daily, has quickly become a local favorite, drawing in customers eager to taste authentic flavors that are hard to find elsewhere.
Every bite of their food tells the story of their home country, where spices mingle with stories, and love is the primary ingredient. The sisters' passion for cooking is not merely about sustaining themselves; it’s about carving out a new identity in unknown territory. Local patrons appreciate this authenticity and often find themselves returning not just for the food, but for the warmth of the sisters' hospitality.
The Courage to Start Again
Prior to opening the restaurant, Nelofar worked as a kindergarten teacher in Afghanistan. Her connections with U.S. military personnel, who supported her during turbulent times, highlight the dangers she bravely faced. The sisters endured lengthy stays in refugee camps and a series of temporary jobs, never losing sight of their determination to establish stability and a sense of community.
Amidst their struggle, the sisters found strength in each other. They made a pact to uplift one another, focusing on their mutual goals. Their journey teaches us that resilience and kinship can flourish, even in the darkest of times. It is their unwavering spirit that breathes life into Royal Chicken & Kabab.
Building Connections
At Royal Chicken & Kabab, the absence of online ordering might seem peculiar in today's fast-paced, digital world. However, this decision stems from the sisters’ desire to cultivate genuine relationships with their customers. They believe that personal interactions enrich the dining experience, transforming mere transactions into friendships. By encouraging in-person and phone orders, they make their patrons feel like part of the family—a place where stories, laughter, and culture are shared.
The restaurant has become more than just a business; it’s a community hub where people gather not only to enjoy delicious food but also to learn about Afghan culture. The sisters are often seen mingling with guests, answering questions, and sharing anecdotes about their culinary traditions.
A Lesson in Perseverance
The journey of Nelofar and Shaqaeq is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It proves that, even when faced with breathtaking challenges, hope can lead to prosperity. Their success is a testament to the warm reception they received in Lewiston, which emphasizes the importance of welcoming refugees into our communities.
The story of the Ahmadi sisters reminds us that food has an unparalleled power to bridge cultures. Every dish served at Royal Chicken & Kabab does more than nourish; it fosters understanding and solidarity. It ignites a dialogue about compassion—an essential ingredient in any community.
Join the Journey
As you consider your dining options in Lewiston, remember that your meal at Royal Chicken & Kabab is more than just a choice for food; it’s a way to support a magnificent story of bravery and new beginnings. Connect with these talented sisters and indulge in the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine.
Their journey illustrates that every plate carries a story worth sharing. So, the next time you're in the neighborhood, be sure to drop by and experience the heartfelt hospitality of Nelofar and Shaqaeq. Together, let’s celebrate their courage and the vibrant tapestry of culture they weave through their food.