Naheda’s Choice is celebrating a huge ten years at Prahran Market this year.
In the time they’ve been here, Naheda and husband Jim have built a loyal customer base with their delicious homemade Turkish dips and mouth-watering Turkish delight, but despite the success achieved over the years, the husband and wife duo remains humble. “We don’t admit success has been attained because then progress stops. We will continue to strive for more, putting our customers’ needs first,” says Naheda.
Perhaps it’s this positive attitude that has helped Naheda’s Choice maintain a loyal customer following for the past decade. Frequented by local chefs, food influencers and media, it’s no secret they’ve attracted a cult-like following, but not without growth. In 2016, after the success of their flagship stall, Naheda’s Choice Homemade Dips, they opened a second ‘sweeter’ stall, focusing on Turkish delight and developing more and more flavours daily. “We’ve realised that ambition is the path to success. We still enter Prahran Market early every morning with the same passion, looking forward to what the day has to offer,” says Naheda.
So what makes Naheda’s Choice so popular? According to Naheda it’s knowing her customers inside and out. “You have to get closer than ever to your customers – so close, in fact, that you tell them what they need before they realise it themselves!” This cheeky way of interacting with customers has also earnt the pair a great reputation for customer service. It’s safe to say no loyal Prahran Market shopper has passed through the Deli Arcade without tasting the Naheda’s Choice signature garlic dip range or the ‘bomb’ – a highly guarded secret recipe that keeps customers coming back for more.
“We’ve been in business for a long time and for us, the customer is the hero of our story,” she says. “These golden years have made us grow, prosper, develop, endure and be grateful for what we have, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.”
We’re pretty confident Naheda’s Choice will be sticking around for at least another ten years, but just to be sure, it’s probably a good idea to stock up on olive dip, don’t you think?