Khaled Alrayes: Food critic turned entrepreneur

When Khaled Alrayes, known to many as Khaled Choice, launched his social media page in 2016, the concept of blending food criticism with social media influence was still emerging. Today, Khaled stands as a distinctive figure in Qatar’s influencer and entrepreneurial scene, harmoniously integrating his love for food, travel, and genuine engagement into a thriving career.

Khaled’s journey began with a bold approach to food criticism. His candid and unfiltered feedback garnered a loyal following, although it also attracted criticism from some quarters. “I started my page as a food critic, and my feedback was very harsh at some point,” Khaled reflects. “This built a trust relationship with my followers. But after facing backlash from restaurant owners, I decided to shift from criticism to a platform that radiates positivity and good vibes.” This pivot marked the birth of Khaled Choice, a brand rooted in authenticity and personal connection with his audience. “I think this is the new connection I have with the followers,” Khaled adds.

Food and travel are more than passions for Khaled; they are his lifeblood. “Food and travel have always been my passion in life!” he exclaims. “I learn about cultures through the food they cook and the flavours they use. Some people eat to survive; I survive to eat!” This deep-seated connection informs his content, which resonates with his followers due to its authenticity. “Not everything I post will get huge interactions, but it reflects my personality and what I’m looking for in a trip or a flavour,” he says. “This is why my followers feel connected to my page—it’s genuine and not an act.”

In 2020, Khaled embarked on an entrepreneurial venture by co-founding Go Home!, a café in Doha’s Msheireb Downtown. Though the café is no longer open, it showcased Khaled’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable food in a welcoming environment. “Being an entrepreneur means there’s no pause,” Khaled observes. “You must continuously seek new trends and understand customer needs, adapting with the seasons.”

The evolving food scene in Qatar fuels Khaled’s passion for innovation. “People’s tastes shift every season,” he notes. “They crave new flavours and creativity in food options.” This understanding guides both his entrepreneurial efforts and his role as an influencer, allowing him to meet audience demands while staying true to his authentic self.

Khaled’s appreciation for cultural diversity shines through his work and personal life. “Doha is one of the biggest multicultural capitals,” he says. “We experience diverse cultures through cooking gatherings with friends who are food enthusiasts. Even if you don’t travel, there are countless cuisines to explore right here in Qatar.” His connection to his heritage is also evident, with a deep appreciation for the local food his mother prepares and the tradition of sharing meals with loved ones.

As a seasoned influencer navigating the ever-changing digital landscape, Khaled understands the importance of staying relevant while adhering to core values. “Change and evolution are crucial,” he acknowledges. “Five years ago, I was a different person with different tastes. Adapting to changes is essential, but I always support authentic food options with creative twists.”

For those looking to enter the world of influence or entrepreneurship, Khaled offers this advice: “Don’t pursue it just because others are doing it. Cultivate a genuine passion, conduct your own research, and fall in love with it. When it becomes a true passion rather than just a lifestyle, you’ll know you’re ready to take the leap.”