Caterer Middle East Power List 2023: Lily Hoa Nguyen

Partner Content: The CEO of Vietnamese Foodies’s approach to business has propelled her to the forefront of the industry.

Lily Hoa Nguyen has carved a niche in the UAE’s F&B industry with her brainchild, Vietnamese Foodies. Since its inception in 2018, Vietnamese Foodies has become one of the region’s leading casual dining Vietnamese restaurant chain. Nguyen’s commitment to exceptional food and her innovative approach to business have propelled her to the forefront of the industry, earning her several accolades and recognition over the course of her career.

The business woman’s food journey began at the tender age of five, nurtured by her grandmother’s traditional cooking methods. This early exposure to Vietnamese cuisine ignited a passion that would shape her destiny. Over the years, she honed her skills, gaining experience in kitchens in Saigon, Paris, Istanbul, and eventually Dubai. In 2018, her dream of sharing her culinary heritage eventually materialised in the form of Vietnamese Foodies.

Vietnamese Foodies has flourished, expanding from a single location to eight within five years, all thanks to Nguyen’s dedication to innovation and ability to stay on top of a rapidly changing world. The latest addition to the growing portfolio is a restaurant at Dubai’s iconic Creek Harbour. The venue, which has a capacity of 60 indoor dining seats and 20 outdoor, offers diners a breathtaking view of the Dubai skyline from the Creekside, featuring iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers, and Downtown Dubai. Boasting a prime location on the water promenade, it has panoramic views of the 81-berth yacht club. Throughout her operations, Nguyen has implemented the use of cutting-edge management systems, which has, in turn, helped to ensure Vietnamese Foodies’ high customer review ratings on several platforms

Nguyen’s vision for the brand extends beyond its culinary offerings. Her strategic expansion plan, which includes opening new locations across the city, is bringing this vision to life. In 2024, she plans to unveil Vietnamese Foodies’ first licenced location in Expo City Dubai, transforming it into an activity hub with chef’s table experiences, Vietnamese cooking workshops, and collaborations.

Written By CATERER