The inspiring story of John Kamau, a Kenyan entrepreneur earning millions from selling Mutura in the United States, is one of perseverance, passion, and hard work. As the owner of Lims Nyama Choma, Kamau has transformed his deep love for culinary arts into a flourishing business that continues to thrive.
Kamau’s path to success was far from easy. Hailing from Limuru, Kenya, he faced many hurdles before finding his footing. He explored various ventures before finally opening a restaurant in Seattle, a bustling city in America. Along the way, he worked as a plumber in South Sudan and sold curios in Zambia to make ends meet. The turning point in Kamau’s life came in 2013 when he won a green card lottery. Driven by the desire to succeed in business, he moved to America and settled in Seattle, where his entrepreneurial journey truly began.
The Birth of Lims Nyama Choma
Kamau’s remarkable culinary talent and passion for Kenyan cuisine caught the attention of those around him when he cooked nyama choma (grilled meat) at a friend’s event. The positive feedback and multiple requests to cook for others motivated Kamau to transform his passion into a thriving business.
“After preparing nyama choma at a friend’s party, I received several calls from people wanting me to cook for them for a fee,” Kamau recalled, encouraged by the overwhelming interest.
Empowered by the supportive feedback, Kamau decided to build a food business. His initial catering requests for nyama choma at various events marked the birth of his restaurant venture.
With steadfast support from his family, Kamau shaped Lims Nyama Choma into a true family-operated business. His wife, Caroline Kamau, took charge of the kitchen as the head chef, ensuring that the flavors stayed true to their Kenyan roots. His sons, Simon and Steve Kamau, brought their unique talents to the restaurant, with Simon serving as a waiter and Steve handling accounting. This family collaboration created a memorable and welcoming dining experience for all.
Overcoming Business Challenges
Starting a business in America, like anywhere else, came with its own set of obstacles. Kamau encountered challenges in navigating licensing and meeting the necessary compliance standards. However, his drive and determination to succeed pushed him forward.
Soon after the launch of Lims Nyama Choma, Kamau’s commitment to offering an authentic Kenyan culinary experience paid off. His restaurant became a hit, attracting customers from all walks of life, including Kenyans living abroad, South Africans, and people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Lims Nyama Choma quickly became a cherished gathering spot for the Kenyan community in Seattle, providing a sense of familiarity and togetherness.
Beyond being just a restaurant, Lims Nyama Choma has transformed into a cultural hub. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it offers more than just delicious Kenyan food; it serves as a space where customers can enjoy warm hospitality, connect with others, and indulge in the vibrant flavors of Kenya.
Kamau reflected on his journey, stating, “Mostly hustlers like me fit in here, as opposed to the wealthy, because this is where I earned my first Ksh1 million. It’s a great opportunity for those who are determined.”
