ZILWAUKEE, Mich. (WNEM) – Exactly one year ago, tragedy nearly ended the story of Arabilla Mediterranean Foods. A fire ripped through the Bay Road store, destroying everything inside from equipment and inventory to fresh shipments that had just arrived. With no insurance to cover the loss, owner Ahmad Awawdeh was left with nothing but faith.
“September 24 in the evening, I saw the whole building just full of smoke,” Awawdeh recalled.
Despite offers of donations from loyal customers, he turned them down. He wanted to rebuild with his own two hands and heart.
“I was just between two choices start over or give up,” Awawdeh said. “And I just started over again.”
He began cooking and catering from his home kitchen, working long hours to keep his dream alive. Slowly, the effort paid off. With the community’s support and his determination, Awawdeh saved enough to purchase his first food truck.
“That truck wasn’t just a business purchase,” Awawdeh said. “It was proof that with faith and community, you can rise again from nothing.”
Now, Arabilla is on the move serving wraps, falafel and other Mediterranean favorites at events and neighborhoods across the region. Awawdeh says expansion is already underway, with plans to grow his food truck and catering services into Saginaw and Flint.
“I want people to know more about Mediterranean foods,” Awawdeh said. “We can travel around, people can try the food, and I think we got it the right way.”
From devastation to determination, Awawdeh says his journey proves that even the toughest losses can lead to the sweetest comebacks.
Arabilla Mediterranean Foods will be serving this Saturday at the Zilwaukee Community Hall Craft Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Dining and Cooking