From the bustling food streets of Calicut to the lively avenues of Liverpool and beyond.
“Discover the heartwarming story of how a small food truck from Calicut blossomed into a global restaurant empire, all while staying true to its roots of compassion and community service.”
Ikkayees: A Taste of Home, Wherever You Are
In a gastronomic journey that’s nothing short of a culinary fairytale, Kerala Restaurant has ascended to cloud nine, delighting guests with dishes seasoned not just with spices, but with a generous helping of love and compassion. What began in the bustling food streets of Calicut, has now found its vibrant echo in the lively cityscape of Liverpool. This enchanting eatery offers heartwarming experiences on every plate, inviting food lovers to savor a taste of Kerala’s rich heritage. As the flavors travel continents, so too does the spirit of hospitality, creating a dining experience that’s truly out of this world. Read the story of Ikkayees here:
Ikkayees: A Delicious Tale of Compassion and Cuisine
In a world where food often speaks louder than words, Ikkayees is proof of the power of compassion served on a platter. The journey of Ikkayees began in a small food truck on the lively streets of Calicut, driven by a group of college friends inspired by their experiences at the Institute of Palliative Medicine (IPM), Calicut, the pioneer of palliative care in Southeast Asia. From their humble beginnings to their expansion across continents, the mission of Ikkayees has remained the same: to create meaningful change in the community around them while serving delicious food that feels like family.
From Palliative Care to Palatable Delights
The story of Ikkayees is not your run-of-the-mill entrepreneurial tale. It all started back in 2014 with a group of college students who were deeply moved by their experiences at IPM, Kozhikode. IPM Kozhikode is the first World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Community Participation in Palliative Care and Long-Term Care (WHOCC) in developing countries. Fulaij and his six other close-knit friends met Kulsu, a spirited six-year-old girl from Odisha, at an umbrella-making camp organized by the Institute of Palliative Medicine, which changed their outlook on life. Stirred by the struggles of chronically ill patients, these young hearts vowed to make a difference.
United by empathy and a drive for social good, they plunged into charitable initiatives. They volunteered at the Institute of Palliative Medicine, organized fundraisers, and spread awareness about palliative care. Fueled by selflessness, their journey eventually blossomed into a mission to create their own social entrepreneurship venture.
Ikkayees Food Truck: Compassion on Wheels
Fast forward to February 2016, the Ikkayees Food Truck rolled onto the streets of Calicut. With an initial investment of 8 lakhs, this yellow truck quickly became a beloved fixture along Kozhikode Beach. The aroma of authentic Malabar cuisine drew locals and travelers alike, but it wasn’t just about the food. Ikkayees provided a platform for economically disadvantaged women, allowing them to showcase their culinary skills and earn a livelihood. Widows, single mothers, and marginalized individuals found empowerment and dignity through this heartwarming initiative.
The name “Ikkayees” itself carries a story. Fulaij and his friends used to meet for chai in the evening at a quaint tea shop amidst the vibrant streets of Mughadar, South Beach, Kozhikode. Inspired by ‘Ikkakka’, the owner of this shop, who sold tea at just Rs 1 to support his patrons, mainly fishermen, and students, Fulaij and friends decided to tweak the work ‘Ikkakka’ (a sweet word in the dictionary of Malabar, with the meaning “Brother”). People of Kozhikode often address each other as “Ikkakka” (translated as brother) as a means of respect and love. Later, the team decided that there was no better word to describe the Food Truck, than “Ikkayees”, that symbolizes brotherhood and generosity. The food truck, much like Ikkakka’s tea shop, became a haven of warmth and community.
A Restaurant with a Heart
Despite its success, the journey wasn’t always smooth. Financial instability loomed large, and the original team had to part ways. But Fulaij, ever determined, turned the food truck into a thriving restaurant. The first Ikkayees outlet opened on Mavoor Road, Kozhikode in 2017, embodying the same spirit of giving back.
Ikkayees has made it their mission to prioritize charity works that uplift the marginalized and underserved in society. Their commitment to social responsibility extends beyond the walls of the restaurant. From feeding the homeless to providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children, every rupee spent at Ikkayees goes towards creating a positive impact in the lives of those in need.
Ikkayees has its fair share of contributions and names, be it in serving food or serving people. Initiatives like “Sulaimaniyil Orithiri Mohabath,” which raised funds by selling Sulaimani tea, showcased their commitment to social responsibility. Being one of the top eateries in the city of Kozhikode, the role that Ikkayees played during the major crises, Nipah Virus, COVID-19, and
the 2018 and 2019 Floods, is unmatched. Ikkayees organized a blood donation camp in collaboration with the Blood Donor’s Kerala Association, saving countless lives with every drop of blood collected. When workers were left hungry during strikes, Ikkayees stepped in, ensuring no one went to bed on an empty stomach. During the floods that wrecked the state of Kerala, Ikkayees transmuted into a hub of relief efforts, providing essential supplies to those in desperate need. Their outreach extended to education, supporting children from backward colonies and communities, ensuring they have the tools they need for a brighter future.
The restaurant also supplied food and medicine to cancer centers, bringing comfort to patients in their toughest battles. They supported old age homes and orphanages with regular food supplies, spreading warmth and care where it was needed most. They raised funds for orphaned women’s marriage expenses and provided food, helping them start a new chapter in their lives with dignity. They also made sure that medicine was available for the needy, easing the burden of healthcare costs for many.
Transportation can be a lifeline during medical emergencies, and Ikkayees offered ambulance services and transportation assistance, ensuring swift and safe journeys to the hospital. One of their most touching initiatives was creating employment opportunities for widows and individuals with autism, giving them a chance to be self-reliant and live with pride. Ikkayees partnered with “WE SMILE,” a special school for differently-abled students, creating an inclusive environment where differently-abled, special individuals could thrive. Taking inspiring initiatives through business and giving back to society has been the backbone of their business, and they believe that it’s their uniqueness on purpose that made Ikkayees a success.
Spreading Warmth Globally
From the bustling lanes of Calicut to international shores, Ikkayees has seen remarkable growth. In 2020, they opened their first overseas outlet in Karama, UAE, followed by branches in Sharjah, Bahrain, and Liverpool, with Kuwait on the horizon. Each branch carries the same ethos delicious food served with a side of compassion.
A Journey Rooted in Kindness
With a family of 250+ members, Ikkayees continues to set the bar high. But beyond the numbers, it’s their unwavering dedication to social good that sets them apart. Their journey, marked by resilience and a heart full of compassion, is a reminder of the profound impact of small acts of kindness.
As Ikkayees continues to grow, their story remains a celebration of humanity. It’s not just about the food it’s about the experience, the community, and the spirit of giving back. At Ikkayees, you don’t just leave with a satisfied palate; you leave with a heart full of warmth.
And so, the tale of Ikkayees is far from over. It’s a timeless journey, resonating with the flavors of kindness and the spirit of giving, ensuring that someone, somewhere, is always smiling because of their simple yet profound gestures.
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