We all love the aroma of food and the excitement it gives the digestive system when one dips into a delicious meal. Narifa Bibi Ally is on a journey to tantalise the taste buds of all through her business ‘Tek Ah Taste.’

Having a passion for cooking and eating, Ally created an Instagram page named ‘Tek Ah Taste’ in July 2019, where she posted dishes she made. Her fan base grew, and the idea of starting her business was entertained.

“It wasn’t until late 2020 when an avid fan requested that I prepare an exquisite dinner for two, and very long afterwards, I was invited to make a pop-up sale at Brazo’s Gift Shop by its proprietor.”

After the requests for various dishes poured in, compounded with the limited availability of halaal food, the 28-year-old Annandale, East Coast Demerara resident, birthed her business, Tek Ah Taste.

She relayed that restaurants might use halaal meat, but the ingredients are not.

This prompted her to develop her skills to prepare restaurant-worthy meals using ingredients not routinely used by the average Guyanese household while keeping the meal 100 per cent halaal.

“Over the years, I made an effort to try new ingredients and new recipes and gradually improved my skills. My ‘customers’ were just my family members at that time. However, being an art student in the past, I thought that I needed to present my creations in an artistic and attractive manner like how it’s done professionally.”

Tek Ah Taste provides a variety of pre-ordered food items listed as “available” on its page, including sauces, foods, and desserts.

When asked about what makes Tek Ah Taste stand out from its competitors, Narifa said:

“I don’t see other food businesses as my competitors but rather my allies. But what sets me apart would be the choice of food because I love experimenting with different cuisines, especially Asian cuisines. I also ensure that I am aware of the science behind how a certain dish is prepared.”
Narifa hopes to expand her business and open a fine dining 100 per cent halaal restaurant. Her business can be contacted on Facebook and Instagram.