Episode #33

Meet Sal and Huss

Sal, Huss and his sister Amani’s journey is not the typical hospitality story. There was no burning desire to ever open a cafe but when there was a relationship breakdown and a 9 year lease in Huss’ name, he had no other choice but to step in and take control.

With no experience in hospitality they were determined to make it work. After 6 months they had built what would end up being one of Sydney’s best cafes.

But it wasn’t always that way. Three months after opening they were questioning if they made the right choice. They knew they had an amazing product and offering but couldn’t understand why they weren’t busy. There were days where they wouldn’t turnover $500 and gave themselves a few more months before trying to sell or close the business.

Things started to change when their friend Jameil came in for breakfast. After being blown away by the food he realised they had something special he offered to help them create more awareness through social media. Through this, things started to change, but it wasn’t until their Ramadan nights that Nineteen43 really took off. They had people from all over Sydney visiting their venue for the food, coffee and vibe.

I have spent a lot of time with these guys and know how hard they have worked to create something so special. They have recently sold Nineteen43 but their legacy will live on forever.

They really were the first in Sydney to turn the humble bakery into a unique middle eastern venue.

Ninteen43 was just the beginning for them, They will be opening 2 more venues over the next 6 months

Amani didn’t appear on this episode but we hope to interview her in the near future to hear her inspiring story.