OttawaNeighbours

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Fadel (Shawarma King)

Tell us a bit about your yourself and professional background. What led you to where you are
now?

My name is Fadel and I'm 28 years old. Before Shawarma King, I was a Senior Manager at J.P Morgan Chase Canada.I have spent my entire career in banking until i met my partner at Shawarma King which led to me to become a partner here. I still currently do some banking work mainly in the disaster recovery for Scotia bank.  

When did Shawarma King open its doors? 1997

Approx. how many Shawarmas have you sold to date? (or in a day) :) I can comfortably say that we have sold over a million shawarma's to date :) . On weekends we can do up to 500 a day. YES THAT MANY PEOPLE ACTUALLY COME HERE

What do you love most about living in Ottawa?

I love Ottawa Due to it's perfect size. IT Isn't too big and crowded but at the same it isnt a small town either. Also, it is the shawarma capital of the world which is awesome. Also, there is alot of cultures that are expressed in Ottawa and it is a great place for people to live in harmony. Of course , there is also parliament hill.

How do you unwind at the end of the day?

Weight lifting, Kickboxing and Stock market analysis  

What does a typical day look like for you when you are working? /On your days off?

A typical working day if i'm working at Scotia would involve me waking up at 7 am and getting to work by 8 and leaving at 4:30. Afterwards, i head to Shawarma King till 2 to 4 am depending on the day. Days OFF? not sure what that means or those are.... HA! I spend time with my son Leonidas  who is 10 month as well as continue to train ( that is what keeps me sane with my schedule).

What drew you to this location?

Lots of foot traffic, close to tourists attractions and of course tons of pubs and night life.

What are your goals for the restaurant in the future? We would love expand and operate a few locations. Perhaps even franchise. However, 395 BANK WILL ALWAYS REMAIN THE TRUE KING.

What is your favorite item on the menu? not easy to decide but if I'm hungry .... Gotta go with a mixed plate

What is your favorite part about your job? Watching happy smiling faces leaving my restaurant with a full stomach. Also, iIget to meet people from all walks of life and it is a great place to network and meet incredible people.

Who inspired/s you? I have a few people that inspired me. Arnold Schwarzenegger is at the top of that list and I try to adhere to his 6 rules of success very strictly. On a business level, it would be Jamie Dimon, Chairmen and CEO of J.P Morgan Chase Bank. I happen to think he is one of most influential Executives of the last decade and an incredible person to learn from. In 2007, Jamie was touted as AMERICA'S BANKER OF last resort :).