Ika Talei Opens Again with Samabula Fish and Chips
Ika Talei is back in business,underscoring the growth of fish -and -chips business.
The family-run business first opened in August 2019 and has since then provided employment to unemployed relatives.
But it temporarily closed for two months as the COVID-19 pandemic hit, reopening in May.
The restaurant is owned by Asinate Leba Dickinson, who lives in Australia. Assistant manager Finau Sokobalavu Buredua said the staff tries to keep high morale when business was slow.
“Working at this restaurant has been a source of income for us, as it is quite difficult to find employment during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic,” he said.
Samabula was an ideal location as it targeted students from the nearby Fiji National University and surrounding businesses. Khans Holding Limited, a wholesaler in Walu Bay, supplies fresh fish for the restaurant. There are currently three full time staff at the restaurant.
Investment
Over $20,000 was spent on setting up the restaurant, Mr Buredua said.
Business took off when it launched in 2019, only to be slowed down by customer arrivals following the coronavirus pandemic.
Crumbed-free batter coated thick slices of fish, sets the menu apart from what the market has to offer.
“We sell fish and fries for $7,” Mr Buredua said.
“The serves have two machine-sliced pieces of fish with oil-free tasting chips.
“For $10, you get three pieces of fish and chips, while $13 gets you four pieces of fish and fries.
“These are offered with chilies, lemon and tomato sauce in our Ika Talei custom-made takeaway boxes.
“We also sell fish fingers for $3.50,” he said.
Plans
Ika Talei will venture into the sale of pizza. Plans are still on-going, Mr Buredua said.
Location and operating time
Ika Talei is located across from the Samabula Police Station; and
The restaurant opens from Monday 8am to 4.30pm and Saturday from 8am to 2pm.