From the energetic heart of Lagos to the iconic skylines of London and Dubai, Olushola Medupin—co-founder of the acclaimed Enish Restaurants—is reshaping how the world experiences African culture. More than a restaurateur, he is a visionary entrepreneur blending heritage, elegance, and global strategy to redefine Afrocentric luxury on an international scale.
With academic roots in Economics and a Master’s in Investment Banking from the University of East London, Medupin’s journey is one of both cultural pride and calculated ambition.
Merging Culture with Commerce
For Medupin, the restaurant business isn’t just about taste—it’s about strategy. His background in finance sharpened his approach to growth and sustainability.
“I don’t just see Enish as a restaurant. It’s a collection of assets, a business model built on purpose and precision,” he explained in a recent interview with Kenneth Athekame. “My training taught me to think long-term—aligning passion with structure, and culture with commerce.”
Nigerian Hustle as a Global Asset
Born and raised in Nigeria, Medupin credits his drive to the tenacity and self-starting spirit that defines Nigerian youth.
“In Nigeria, you don’t wait for permission—you create your own path. That mentality shaped everything I’ve done,” he shared. “There’s a natural grit we carry, and I took that with me into every boardroom and kitchen.”
Introducing the World to African Fine Dining
When Enish launched in 2013, African fine dining was largely absent from the global culinary scene. Shola knew the risk wasn’t failure—it was indifference. Still, he doubled down on authenticity.
“We never watered down the culture. We showcased it boldly—rich flavors, vibrant aesthetics, and the full African experience. We didn’t ask for acceptance; we made our culture impossible to ignore.”
As the brand expanded to major cities like London, Dubai, and soon the U.S., each location was tailored to its audience without sacrificing identity.
“In the UK, we focused on nightlife and energy. In Dubai, exclusivity is key. But in all of them, Enish remains unapologetically African.”
Turning Crisis into Opportunity
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Enish didn’t just survive—it grew. Through swift adaptation, the brand pivoted to delivery models, safeguarded staff, and remained connected to customers.
“We stayed visible and responsive,” Shola said. “That consistency turned a global crisis into a catalyst for growth.”
Beyond Cuisine: A Platform for African Creativity
Enish has become more than a dining space—it’s a cultural hub. From showcasing Nigerian fashion to supporting local music and art, the brand serves as a global stage for African innovation.
“We’re exporting more than food. We’re sharing our identity, one plate and playlist at a time,” he explained. “Every Enish location is a gateway to the richness of African expression.”
Meeting Global Standards Without Compromise
Navigating international markets hasn’t come without obstacles. Sourcing native ingredients, adapting to unfamiliar tastes, and managing pricing have all tested the brand’s resilience.
“But we never sacrificed quality,” Medupin emphasized. “We taught our customers, earned their trust, and stood by our standards. Luxury is about consistency and care—not excess.”
Even as inflation and labor costs rise, Enish maintains its premium edge by focusing on what matters: experience, storytelling, and excellence.
Scaling with Heart and Structure
A key to Enish’s global expansion has been balancing soulful storytelling with structured systems.
“Every location is powered by data,” he noted. “We monitor trends, manage logistics, and make informed decisions. But beyond that, each space tells a story. People don’t just dine—they connect with a culture.”
A Word to Future Trailblazers: Begin With What You Have
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Medupin offers a clear and heartfelt message:
“Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start where you are, with what you’ve got. And stay rooted—your background is your power.”
He believes authenticity is the true key to building something enduring and impactful.
What’s Next: Enish as a Global Cultural Brand
Looking ahead, Medupin’s ambitions go far beyond food. Over the next five years, he plans to transform Enish into a comprehensive lifestyle brand encompassing fashion, music, events, and immersive cultural experiences.
“Enish is more than a restaurant—it’s becoming a movement. A global ambassador of African creativity, elegance, and pride.”
Olushola Medupin is doing far more than serving meals—he’s serving meaning, memory, and momentum. Through Enish, he’s rewriting the global narrative about Africa—not as a follower, but as a leader. And the world is taking notice.
