Lebanese-Australian model, humanitarian and one of our fave fashion-inspiration’s, Jessica Kahawaty, has just become a co-founder of a new delicious delivery service, Mama Rita. Along with her mother, Rita Kahawaty, the duo launched their latest food venture only a couple of days ago, but have already received great recognition. Just by skimming the menu, we can tell why. 

We spoke to Jessica about all things food, and why the only restaurant you should be ordering from tonight in Dubai is Mama Rita. 

Cosmo: Why did you decide to set up Mama Rita?

Jessica: “Mama Rita has been an idea of ours for many years. We would sit and talk about how my mother should share her food with the world but we didn’t know what form it would be in. Would it be a restaurant? A cookbook? We finally decided that it would be a delivery service so we can reach as many people as possible. For years, family and friends would go crazy when they tried her clean, delicious, homey food. So it was time that the world tries it as well!”

C: What makes it different to other food delivery concepts in the market?

J: “I’ve always been a foodie and very picky with what I eat. I found a big gap for real, homey, delicious, nutritious and diverse meals in the market. Our menu is extensive and includes a huge variety of dishes to appeal to so many people. Our quality is incredible and our prices are democratic. This beautiful synergy between price and quality doesn’t exist either. This is the best food delivery you’ll have!”

C: What is the best thing about working with your mum?

J: “I love that I can finally bring her passion to life. The best part is watching her feel accomplished and seeing what she does best shared with everyone. She’s so fun, picky and knows exactly what she wants. I’m a perfectionist myself so we work beautifully together and have the same vision on where we want Mama Rita to be.”

C: What has been the most challenging?

J: “The most challenging part which seems like a huge positive was dealing with the demand. It’s been a few days since launch and the response has been overwhelming. Dubai is buzzing with Mama Rita and catering to all the demand in a timely and consistent manner was challenging. However we immediately hired more staff and expanded the kitchen to fit all orders. And that’s 3 days after launch…” 

C: Let’s do some food quick fire…What would you order from Mama Rita for:

J: “Best comfort food: Paprika Pasta or Nouille.

  • Healthiest choice: Kale Salad and Oven-Baked Chicken Potato.
  •  Sweet treats: Carrot Cake with hints of pineapple and coconut or The Popular Fruit Paradise.
  •  Best Middle Eastern dish: Mloukhiye or Oriental Rice with Lamb and nuts.
  •  Best brekkie dish: Knéfe or Fruit Paradise.
  •  A dish to share with friends: Grandma’s meat pastries, Beetroot Hummus, Spinach and Beetroot Fatayer.
  •  The dish EVERYone needs to try: Peanut Butter Chicken with Rice.”

To order Mama Rita, click here.Â