When Nusrat Karim Tonima set out to launch Chef's Avenue, she was not just creating another food court — she was creating an opportunity. Women in Bangladesh's food industry often struggle to start their businesses held back by financial constraints, lack of industry knowledge, and the constant balancing act between work and family. Chef's Avenue, which opened its doors on 20 February at Mascot Plaza in Uttara, was designed to change all that. 

A sprawling 9,000 sq ft space, Chef's Avenue is a place where people gather, celebrate, and experience a wide range of flavours under one roof. From sizzling Pakistani nihari to crispy Korean street food and classic Bangladeshi comfort dishes — it caters to every palate. While the children enjoy corn dogs and fries, adults can indulge in rich curries, grilled meats, or freshly baked doughnuts.

A VR gaming zone keeps teens entertained while a creative clay station offers something hands-on for all ages. Whether you are here for a quick bite, a family outing, or a casual hangout with friends, there's something for everyone. 

Yet, what makes Chef's Avenue truly stand out is its vision. Unlike most food courts, which require hefty deposits from vendors and must be led by a popular name, this one offers women-led businesses a chance to rent space for a minimal token amount.

"For many women, gathering the deposit money is often extremely difficult," Tonima explains. "We wanted to remove that hurdle so they can focus on what really matters — building their business."

Beyond financial support, Chef's Avenue also steps in when entrepreneurs need guidance, whether it's sourcing equipment, managing customers, or handling unexpected challenges. 

Women in business often face resistance, both from society and from their self-doubt. "We grow up with so many bindings — we almost never think about ourselves," says Tonima. "Maybe a woman does not know how to deal with customers, maybe she's not familiar with commercial kitchen equipment, maybe she's just afraid to start because she's been told she can't. This is where we come in."

If a business owner can't be present for the day, the Chef's Avenue team makes sure things keep running smoothly. The goal is simple: to ensure that women do not feel alone in their journey. 

As Bangladesh's food industry continues to grow, spaces like Chef's Avenue are proving that change is possible — not just in the way people dine but in how businesses are built. By removing financial barriers and providing hands-on support it creates opportunities for women who might otherwise hesitate to step into the industry.

More than just a food court, Chef's Avenue is a space that encourages women to invest in themselves, gain confidence, and take charge of their own ventures. 

With its diverse offerings and inclusive approach, Chef's Avenue is not just redefining the dining experience in Uttara — it's setting an example of what the future of entrepreneurship can look like when women are given the right support to thrive.