Flipping the script on burgers and business

If there’s one thing Shaikha Eissa Lutfi knows how to do, it’s break the mould. From flipping her first homemade burgers to building She Burger into a dining sensation, the Emirati entrepreneur has redefined the burger game in the UAE. But for Lutfi, food isn’t just about taste — it’s about connection. And in the spirit of Ramadan, she’s ensuring that every bite at She Burger is infused with generosity, sharing, and togetherness.

Lutfi’s love affair with food started young, right in her home kitchen. “The kitchen was my creative playground,” she says, reminiscing about her childhood. “After school, I’d experiment with quick meals for family and friends.” What started as a hobby quickly turned into a mission when she noticed a gap in the market. “At the time, we didn’t have a lot of burger choices with different flavours and fillings. I wanted to create a space that felt like home while serving high-quality, innovative burgers.”

Thus, She Burger was born — not just a restaurant but an experience. With a passion for crafting unique flavours and a dedication to inclusivity, Lutfi built a brand that resonates deeply with its guests. “Food is a way of bringing people together, and I wanted She Burger to be more than a place to eat — it had to be a space where everyone feels welcome.”

Ramadan and community

For Lutfi, the holy month of Ramadan is more than just a time of fasting — it’s a celebration of unity, gratitude, and giving. “At She Burger, we don’t just serve meals; we create experiences that embody the values of Ramadan. We emphasise generosity, sharing, and togetherness in every detail, ensuring that each meal becomes a meaningful celebration of culture and community.”

Her philosophy is evident in the restaurant’s warm, communal atmosphere, where guests feel like part of a bigger family. “The idea is to cultivate lasting connections. When people gather around food, it’s about more than just eating — it’s about making memories.”

Launching a home-grown burger brand in a competitive market was no easy feat, and Lutfi faced her fair share of challenges. “Understanding the market was crucial, especially when the industry became highly competitive after I opened,” she says. “You have to know how to attract customers, anticipate their expectations, and accept criticism in a positive way.”

Beyond perfecting her recipes, Lutfi focused on strategic branding, customer loyalty, and quality control. “We use only the freshest ingredients and constantly innovate with creative menu ideas,” she explains. Engaging with the community through special events and leveraging technology with platforms such as Talabat and Deliveroo helped She Burger stand out. “By combining high-quality food, customer engagement, and a strong brand identity, we’ve been able to carve out a unique space in the industry.”

Walk into She Burger, and you’ll instantly feel the sense of belonging that Lutfi has so carefully cultivated. “We designed the space to be warm and inviting, with communal seating and a friendly team that makes every guest feel at home,” she says. The restaurant actively engages with diners, encouraging feedback and fostering real connections through social media. “Inclusivity is key — whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, we want everyone to feel like they’re part of the She Burger family.”

Emirati flavours with a modern twist

Ramadan wouldn’t be complete without traditional Emirati dishes that bring people together at iftar. “Dishes like dates, luqaimat, waraq enab, harees, and thareed capture the warmth of Ramadan gatherings,” Lutfi shares. “It’s all about incorporating them in the right way.”

Striking the balance between tradition and modernity is something Lutfi does effortlessly. “I have a deep appreciation for Emirati cuisine, but I love giving it a contemporary twist.” This Ramadan, She Burger is introducing a coconut-strawberry cake as part of its special menu. “It’s a trending dessert among locals, and we’re excited to give it our own She Burger spin.” And while there’s another surprise dish in store, Lutfi keeps the details under wraps. “Let’s just say it’s something velvety and nostalgic. Stay tuned!”

When asked about a personal favourite dish that reflects the essence of Ramadan, Lutfi immediately mentions her Sticky Date Pudding and Luqaimat. “It’s the ultimate sharing dessert. The warm, rich flavours and the sweetness of the dates remind me of family gatherings — where we’d all dive into a dish, laughing and making memories,” she says. “That’s the kind of experience I want to bring to our guests during the holy month.”

Inspiring future entrepreneurs

As a trailblazing Emirati entrepreneur, Lutfi is passionate about inspiring the next generation of female chefs and business owners. “Follow what inspires you,” she advises. “Be authentic in your culinary creations or business ventures — your unique experiences set you apart.”

She stresses the importance of continuous learning. “The industry is always evolving, so stay curious. Attend workshops, seek mentorship, and keep up with trends.” Networking, she adds, is another essential ingredient for success. “Surround yourself with a supportive community. Collaboration can open doors you never even considered.”

Above all, Lutfi encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges. “View setbacks as opportunities. Take risks — because the risk you’re afraid to take might just change your life.”

With She Burger’s recent expansion into Saudi Arabia, Lutfi has no plans of slowing down.

“That was just the beginning,” she says. “We want to continue growing while staying true to our Emirati roots — through bold flavours, warm hospitality, and creative innovation.”

What’s next for the brand? Lutfi hints at new menu inspirations, regional collaborations, and unique dining experiences on the horizon. “We’ll keep celebrating our culture and sharing our story — one burger at a time.”