Faisal Shaker, the co-founder and CEO of Modern Food Company (MFC), has emerged as a pioneer in Saudi Arabia’s fine dining and lifestyle industry. His journey from a passionate food enthusiast to a leader in the region’s culinary scene reflects his dedication, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. Under his leadership, MFC has become synonymous with excellence, offering unique dining experiences through its portfolio of renowned international franchises.
Early Passion for Culinary Excellence
Faisal Shaker’s love for food and travel laid the foundation for his career. He often prioritized dining experiences during his travels, which influenced his decision to venture into the food and beverage (F&B) industry.
“Whenever we traveled, our first thought was always about where we would dine,” Faisal once shared. This passion gradually evolved into a business idea that would redefine dining in Saudi Arabia.
In 2012, Faisal and his partners formally established Modern Food Company, but the concept had been in development since 2008. Their initial goal wasn’t to dominate the fine dining market but to pursue their shared love for exceptional culinary experiences. What began as a hobby soon turned into a mission to bring world-class dining options to Saudi Arabia.
The Birth of Modern Food Company
Modern Food Company officially launched with the opening of its first restaurant in September 2014. The team’s breakthrough came when they secured the franchise rights for Nozomi, a high-end Japanese restaurant based in London. This marked the beginning of MFC’s journey toward becoming a major player in the industry.
Faisal and his team focused on creating distinctive dining experiences inspired by global leaders like Zuma. They collaborated with Nori-san, a renowned Japanese designer from Studio Glut, to develop a cohesive design aesthetic across their restaurants. This approach ensured that each establishment offered exceptional cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Expanding the Portfolio
Under Faisal’s leadership, MFC expanded its portfolio to include several prestigious international franchises such as Cicchetti, Urth Caffe, Billionaire, and Signor Sassi. These brands cater to diverse tastes while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
Faisal emphasized the importance of leading rather than following trends in the F&B industry. “Our inspiration primarily came from Zuma,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to innovation and excellence. By introducing unique concepts and adapting them to local preferences, MFC has set new benchmarks for dining in Saudi Arabia.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey wasn’t without obstacles. In the early days, Faisal faced challenges in attracting international talent and convincing global partners to invest in Saudi Arabia. At the time, the country’s market dynamics differed significantly from those in Europe or North America. However, Faisal’s persistence and adaptability helped him navigate these hurdles.
One notable challenge involved designing restaurants that catered to local cultural norms while appealing to international standards. For instance, their first restaurant featured separate sections for families and singles—a concept unfamiliar to their international collaborators but essential for success in Saudi Arabia.
A Passionate Leader
Beyond his role as CEO, Faisal Shaker is deeply passionate about food and culture. He draws inspiration from personal experiences and global culinary trends. Some of his favorite dining spots include LPM and Cipriani, which reflect his appreciation for refined yet accessible cuisine.
Faisal also believes in integrating cultural elements into MFC’s offerings. For example, he has explored incorporating camel milk—a traditional ingredient with significant health benefits—into modern culinary creations. This innovative approach underscores his commitment to blending tradition with modernity.
The Future of Modern Food Company
Looking ahead, Faisal envisions continued growth for MFC while maintaining its core values of quality and authenticity. The company recently announced plans to open a new Italian restaurant named Agio, further diversifying its portfolio.
However, Faisal is not solely focused on expansion for its own sake. “It’s not about growing our portfolio just for the sake of having more restaurants,” he stated. Instead, he prioritizes creating memorable experiences that resonate with customers long after their meals.
Faisal also aims to stay attuned to emerging trends in the F&B industry while preserving MFC’s reputation for excellence. By remaining adaptable and forward-thinking, he hopes to solidify MFC’s position as a leader in luxury dining across the Middle East.
Faisal Shaker’s journey exemplifies how passion and perseverance can transform an idea into a thriving enterprise. As the CEO of Modern Food Company, he has redefined fine dining in Saudi Arabia by introducing world-class brands and setting new standards for quality and innovation.
Through his visionary leadership, Faisal continues to inspire others in the industry while contributing to Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape. His story serves as a testament to the power of dedication and creativity in achieving success.
