By Rita Okoye
The GTCO Food and Drinks Festival 2024 was more than just a festival; it’s a platform where dreams flourish, memories are made, and experiences are gained.
For Dania Oluwatosin, the founder of Eatcheftee’s Brunch Shop, this event provided an opportunity to dream bigger than ever before.
She tells Allure Vanguard: “I like that it gives small business owners like me a chance to dream bigger than we can ever imagine, a space to meet most of our customers all at the same time and spend time just making memories and gaining experience.”
Reflecting on her experience at the event, Dania believes it was a resounding success. “In my opinion, it was very successful. The three days were worth it,” she remarks.
When asked about any changes she would like to see, Dania mentioned improvements in amenities. “The only thing would be some of the amenities like unlimited water supply and good toilets,” she suggests.
The GTCO Food and Drinks Festival not only brings local businesses to the forefront but also significantly impacts the tourism industry. “It is already boosting tourism in Nigeria. People come from all over to eat Amala and pounded yam at the festival. There are all types of dry foods too, from dry fish to roasted fowl and local spices,” Dania explains.
Speaking about the economic impact of the event, Dania highlights its contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. “It boosts our GDP and increases cash flow in the country. I’m also quite certain that foreign currencies exchange hands at the event too,” she adds.
Turning the spotlight on her brand, Eatcheftee’s Brunch Shop, Dania shares insights into her business. “I’ve been in the breakfast/brunch space for about two years now. My business caters to the busy working class that doesn’t have time to think about breakfast before going to work and also those seeking comfort foods,” she explains.
“Our signature breakfast meal is our fluffy pancakes; it’s the best in Lagos,” she proudly states.
When asked about the affordability of her delicacies, Dania assures, “They are quite affordable. As of today, our prices range from as low as 4000 Naira for daily meal packs. And our customers range from students to the working class and even our mummies and daddies.”
On celebrities she would like to see try her delicacies, Dania mentions Shank Comics and a few others. “One of our customers from way back is Shank Comics; he seemed to love our pancakes, especially the chocolate flavour. Other celebrities I think would enjoy it include Diaryofakitchenlover (Chef T) and Don Jazzy,” she adds, hoping to tantalize the taste buds of these famous personalities with her delicious offerings.