In a city known for its luxury and high-end dining, the idea of a fresh, home-cooked meal for just AED 3 sounds almost impossible in Dubai. But for hundreds of workers in Al Muhaisnah 2, this is a daily reality – thanks to Lokesh Mishra and his Bhojpuriya Restaurant. For just AED 10 a day, workers receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A full month of meals costs AED 300, ensuring that no one goes hungry, regardless of their financial situation. What started as a humble initiative to serve laborers has now grown into something much bigger. Come with me to learn more about the man behind the cause.
From Corporate To Kitchen
Before making his way to the kitchen, for nearly two decades, Lokesh Mishra thrived in the corporate world, working with top tech companies like Siemens, Nokia, and Apple across Europe and the Middle East. Despite his success, Mishra had always carried a deep love for food and hospitality. He saw that while affordable South Indian meals were common in Dubai, North Indian workers – especially those from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar – struggled to find budget-friendly meals that reminded them of home. So in 2020, he decided to take a leap of faith and open Bhojpuriya Restaurant, a place where people could enjoy hearty, familiar food at a price they could truly afford.
Changes During Covid
Just weeks after opening, the world came to a standstill. The COVID-19 pandemic forced Bhojpuriya to shut its doors, putting its survival at risk. But Mishra wasn’t about to let that stop him. Instead, he quickly pivoted to a tiffin delivery system, ensuring that workers still had access to hot, home-cooked meals. Deliveries began as early as 4 AM, making sure that those working long shifts wouldn’t miss a meal. This service, priced at just AED 3 per meal, became a lifeline for many. More than just food, it provided reliability, comfort, and a sense of home when people needed it most.
A hub For Food Lovers
Though Bhojpuriya was originally meant for labourers, it has since become a hub for food lovers across Dubai. Word spread quickly, and now Bhojpuri cuisine enthusiasts, film stars, and visitors from all backgrounds stop by to enjoy the flavours of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh!
One Meal, One Act Of Kindness At A Time
Bhojpuriya Restaurant is proof that a small act of kindness can have a huge impact. What started as a simple mission to provide affordable meals has grown into a community-driven effort that serves hundreds every day. Bhojpuriya now has a team of 15 dedicated staff members, and to him, they are family. And at the heart of it all is one man’s unwavering belief that everyone deserves a meal that feels like home.
If you want to support this act of kindness by trying out Bhojpuriya’s food yourself, you can visit them at Muhaisnah, Near Naseeb Travels, 28th Street, Dubai, from 6 am – 11:30 pm. For more information please call +971 585 243 006
