FOR the past 15-years, Davendra Prasad has been waking up before dawn, travelling from Naulu, Nakasi, to Suva, and dedicating his days to serving delicious Indian cuisine to hundreds of customers.
As the owner of The Best Roti Shop at Dolphins Plaza, Shop One, he has built a reputation for quality food, friendly service, and consistency.
At 50-years-old, Prasad is passionate about the family business that has become a well-known eatery for breakfast, lunch, and traditional Indian meals in the capital city.
Married with two children, he credits his success to hard work, determination, and family support.
“Everything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard for it,” Prasad said.
Speaking to this newspaper, he reflected on the journey that transformed a family dream into a thriving business.
“We have been running this business for a long time. It’s a family business and running it for 15 years shows the dedication my family has made to reach this far and the passion we have for cooking and serving our customers with the best food.
The restaurant was founded on a shared love for cooking.
For Mr Prasad and his family, food has always been more than just a source of income it is a passion that brings people together.
“It was always a passion for me and my family to open a restaurant. We all love to cook, so we decided to put that passion to good use and open a shop to serve people with great and tasty food.”
While the business has experienced many successful years, Prasad admits that recent economic challenges have affected operations.
“We have been running really well for the past few years, but this year business has been a bit up and down.
“Fuel prices and the cost of goods and services are very high, but we are managing because this is what helps us feed our families.
“It takes hustle and hard work to stay in business and achieve our goals.”
Despite the challenges, giving up has never been an option for the family.
Every day begins at 4am as Prasad prepares for another busy day in Suva.
“My day begins really early in the morning. I wake up at 4am and prepare to come to Suva. I try to beat the traffic so I can open the shop early for my customers.”
The long hours and sacrifices have been worthwhile, especially when he sees loyal customers returning day after day.
“Our customers know that we always sell good food. We have regular customers for breakfast and lunch. Sometimes when I see them coming, I already know what they are going to order.”
Having a business in the heart of Suva has also played an important role in attracting customers.
“Having a shop here in Suva is an advantage. It’s the city, and people are always coming and going.
“Many stop by to enjoy a meal at our restaurant.”
According to Prasad, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays are usually the busiest days of the week. However, the restaurant enjoys strong support from loyal customers throughout the year.
“We have many fixed customers who come every day to have their meals from our shop.”
One of the biggest challenges facing restaurant owners in Suva is competition.
With numerous eateries operating across the city, standing out requires commitment and consistency.
“There are a lot of restaurants here in Suva, so competition is very high. The best way to compete is through the quality of your food and making sure customers enjoy their meals and want to come back again.”
The Best Roti Shop offers a wide selection of traditional Indian dishes that have become customer favourites.
Popular menus include Curry Goat, Curry Duck, Jungli Murgi, and Prawn Curry all for around $16 to $18.
The breakfast menu is equally popular, featuring Fried Cassava, Fried Dalo, Bhajiya, Gulgula, Bara, Aallu Bhajiya, Batada Wada, Veg Samosa, Egg Sandwiches, Cheese Sandwiches, Ginger Tea, Masala Tea, Coffee and Milo.
Customers can also enjoy a variety of lunch and dinner options such as Chicken in Gravy, Chili Chicken, Stir Fry Chicken, Chicken Black Bean, Lamb in Gravy and Sausage in Gravy.
For those looking for quick meals, the restaurant serves Fish and Chips, Chicken Wings and Chips, Sausage and Chips, and Chicken Drumstick or Thigh with Chips.
As he looks toward the future, Prasad remains committed to providing quality meals and excellent customer service.
“My message to the public is to come and taste the best curry dishes here at my shop at Dolphins Plaza, Shop One, Suva. I promise you won’t be disappointed.”
He also has a special message for young people who dream of opening their own businesses.
“The sky is the limit. Work for your dreams because nothing comes easy in this world.
We all need to work hard, pray a lot, stay humble and listen to our parents.”
Prasad remains passionate about the family business that has become a well-known destination for breakfast, lunch, and traditional Indian meals in the capital city.
Picture: JOHN CHETTY
