Today, we have the privilege of delving into the behind-the-scenes magic at one of Australia’s most vibrant African restaurants, Little Lagos. Join us as we sit down with the founder and owner, Adetokunboh Adeniyi, affectionately known as Ade. We’ve asked Ade to give us a glimpse into his typical day, his wellspring of inspiration, and his unwavering passion for Nigerian cuisine.
Picture this: the sun has barely begun its ascent, yet Ade is already up and at it by 4 a.m. With an infectious spring in his step, he kickstarts his day with an invigorating run, followed by a quick gym session. By 7 a.m., after savoring a hearty breakfast, he settles into his workspace, ready to take on the world. Ade now oversees two venues in two different cities, Brisbane and Sydney. His mornings are dedicated to prioritizing tasks, sifting through emails, and carefully considering collaboration proposals, always with a commitment to swift responses.
As midday approaches, Ade’s routine leads him to the heart of his enterprise – the restaurant. If he’s in Sydney, he rushes there to prepare for the day’s service. However, when he’s in Brisbane, he heads to his dedicated office space. From then on, it’s all about the hustle and bustle of hard work! At 4 p.m., the restaurant’s doors swing open, and service begins. Ade’s presence on the floor is a constant, whether in Brisbane or Sydney. He engages with patrons, introducing them to the concept and vision that underpin Little Lagos. Service carries on until 10 p.m., and by 11 p.m., Ade seeks solace in his bed, poised to recharge for another day.
Now, let’s explore what fuels Ade’s remarkable journey – it’s none other than the celebration of culture! Ade firmly believes in the power of storytelling and the importance of individuals representing themselves as they wish to be seen. His wellspring of inspiration lies in the vibrancy of his native Lagos community, an eternal source of brilliance and creativity. Culture is the driving force that propels Ade forward, igniting a passion that sustains his endeavours. Little Lagos serves as a portal into African lifestyle, culture, and cuisine.
Amidst the orchestrated chaos that characterizes Ade’s daily life, you might wonder about his work approach – is he a stickler for systems and processes, or more easygoing? Well, it’s a blend of both worlds. While some may perceive his methods as spontaneous, Ade places great importance on structured processes. They act as a guiding map for his team, ensuring that everyone is aligned and understands their roles. Delegation is Ade’s secret weapon. With an events manager and a guest experience manager by his side, he entrusts them to excel in their respective roles. Delegating tasks enables Ade to focus on the bigger picture while his team ensures the seamless realization of Little Lagos’ vision.
In conclusion, Ade’s life as the steward of Little Lagos is a compelling narrative of commitment, inspiration, and the celebration of culture. From dawn till dusk, Ade’s dedication to his community shines through. His passion for storytelling, underpinned by a well-structured process and a talented team, fuels the triumph of Little Lagos. So, the next time you crave exquisite food and an exceptional experience, immerse yourself in the enchantment of Little Lagos.
Until our next encounter, keep shining and embracing the beauty of your own narratives.
