TAKOYAKI SUCCESS FOR SABAH GRAD
Man learns how to make the Japanese street snack by watching YouTube
HIS experience working abroad inspired a local lad to open a drive-through outlet selling Japanese street snack takoyaki. Herman Shah Amat Sah, 42, started his Xpress Takoyaki business in 2016 in a small kiosk in Kampung Pengalat Besar here. He now has his own building that offers comfortable dining for customers.
Herman said having done offshore work abroad for more than 10 years, he managed to check out many drive-through outlets, which got him thinking of starting a food business using the same concept back home.
“In 2016, I started with a capital of RM2,200. At that time, it was just a small wooden booth in front of my house facing the main road.
“Now I have a small shophouse complete with facilities such as closed-circuit television camera and dining room, as well as a drive-through area. Initially, I was doing all the cooking, but now I have two employees.”
The Geological Sciences graduate from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia said the idea of starting a takoyaki business came about naturally, as he loved the food.
“Moreover, when I started out, there was no one selling takoyaki here. In fact, the drive-through concept had not yet become popular in Kota Kinabalu then.
“As a businessman, we have to be creative and bold to innovate to attract customers. At the same time, it is important to maintain the quality of the product to meet customer satisfaction,” said the eldest of six.
Herman said he was happy that his business was moving well, and even foreign tourists visited his outlet.
“A set with four pieces of takoyaki costs RM3.90, and three sets cost RM11, while a family set with 40 pieces of takoyaki is priced at RM33.
“Among the flavours available are cuttlefish, chicken and crab. But the most popular flavour is oyster. In addition, we also sell burgers and drinks, such as coconut juice and ice cream.
Herman said he learnt how to make takoyaki on YouTube and modified the recipe to suit the local taste.
He used his own sauce made from organic matter.
He said Xpress Takoyaki was managed by his sister, Noraini. His outlet accepts orders for takoyaki for any occasion.