Tashas founder Natasha Sideris has marked two decades of success by expanding her beloved café empire into the UAE. Since its inception, Tashas has become synonymous with community, quality, and comfort, making its mark in various regions, including South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and notably in the UAE. In this article, we explore Sideris’s journey, her vision for Tashas, and the exciting expansion plans that signal the brand’s continued growth in the region.
The Genesis of a Café Empire
When Natasha Sideris opened the first Tashas in Johannesburg’s Atholl Square, she initially viewed it as a hobby. As a psychology student with aspirations to write a cookbook titled *Street Food Africa*, she thought, “I’d open the store, work a few hours in the morning, go to lectures, and write my cookbook.” Rather humorously, she reflects, “That never happened. From day one, it just took off.” Fast forward twenty years, and Tashas has transformed into a globally recognized name, boasting 40 restaurants across South Africa, the UAE, and now expanding into Saudi Arabia. “Everything we do is organic. It takes time. We don’t chase trends; we don’t rush growth. It’s about doing things properly and choosing locations that make sense,” Sideris explains.
Settling in the UAE
Natasha Sideris’s venture into the UAE began 11 years ago when she was approached by a local Emirati businessman interested in bringing Tashas to the region. “We’d been approached by big corporate groups in the US, the UK, and Australia, but the UAE made sense. I came to Dubai, fell in love, and never left,” she shares. The brand has since expanded, opening locations beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah. “We’ve been approached for years, especially after opening Tashas in Al Bateen in Abu Dhabi, but the timing wasn’t right. Now, with people moving to other emirates, it’s perfect. Al Ain has a great coffee culture, and Sharjah has an amazing creative scene.” The new Tashas in Al Ain is set to open in January 2026, a testament to her dedication as she remains actively involved in every new site.
The Distinctive Tashas Experience
Entering any Tashas location, customers are greeted by carefully curated details like atmospheric lighting, captivating artwork, and an unmistakable sense of ease. “Tashas has always been about community, and community also means family. It’s warm, welcoming, comforting,” Sideris states. Her brother, responsible for the interior designs, shares her vision, and together they create a feeling akin to being at home—an elegant blend of quiet comfort and luxury. This philosophy extends to their menu, with Sideris favoring the parmesan couscous chicken breast, a palate-pleasing dish that reflects her Greek heritage. She also appreciates her brother’s creamy chicken pasta with mushrooms, which has become a signature comfort dish on the menu.
Commitment to Quality and Community
So, what has kept Tashas thriving for two decades? “We do the basics really well. Great ingredients, made fresh, served with warmth. You can’t beat that,” Sideris asserts. The Abu Dhabi branch stands out as the busiest among the locations, but she is far from slowing her pace. With upcoming openings in Riyadh, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain, Natasha Sideris is busier than ever. “The UAE is the land of opportunity. It’s become home. There is a warmth and generosity with the people here. Abu Dhabi is our busiest Tashas, and the Flamingo Room is perfect for an intimate dinner,” she remarks.
Over the past twenty years, Natasha Sideris has not just built a café brand; she has created a home away from home—an inviting space that remains familiar and comforting, no matter where you enjoy a cup of coffee.