Norman's Kebabish Bites works to foster community by bringing people to the same table

NORMAN — On any normal day that you set foot inside Kebabish Bites at 283 34th Ave SW in Norman, you're likely to be greeted by friendly staff and the smell of warm spices wafting out of the kitchen.

But, occasionally, chef-owner Waseem Ahmed opens his restaurant on his normal day off for private dinners meant to build relationships in the community.

"Food is the most fundamental necessity of our lives, something we partake in multiple times daily. When dining out, we often find ourselves seated next to strangers, yet we accept these arrangements," Ahmed said.

Ahmed doesn't think people in communities across our state have to be that disconnected, though.

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Through dinners for Eid feasts to help educate others on the observance of Islamic holidays, to a collaboration with Tahnee Francis of Naija Wife Kitchen on Monday, Ahmed is working to bridge divides, build community and foster lasting dialogue between the people around him.

Monday's dinner invited community members to come together and enjoy a meal created by Ahmed and Francis that included some of the chef's signature individual dishes alongside two special collaboration dishes.

"As a restaurant owner and chef, it is important to embrace and appreciate the culinary creations offered by others. This practice embodies the principle of acceptance," Ahmed said. "We must all learn to appreciate each other's food and culture, as this mutual respect is one of the most beautiful aspects of our shared humanity."

To learn more

• Naija Wife Kitchen: Visit https://naijawifekitchenfusion.com, or follow the restaurant on social media on Facebook.com/naijawifekitchen, or via Instagram at @naijawifekitchen.
• Kebabish Bites and Ahmed's community work: Visit https://kebabishbites.com, or follow the restaurant on social media on Facebook.com/kebabishbitesok, or via Instagram at @kebabish_bites_norman.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Norman's Kebabish Bites works to foster community by bringing people to the same table