ONJA Taste Of Tanzania

Region: South Wales
Type of finance: Loan
Business need: Starting a business
Size: SME
Investment: Under £100,000

Investment Executive

The loan from the Development Bank has given me the confidence to take the leap of faith and follow my dreams. I feel like I was born to cook, and I can’t wait to share the taste of Tanzania with Cardiff.

Justina John, Director, ONJA

Business overview

ONJA Taste of Tanzania is a vibrant restaurant bringing the taste of East Africa to Wales. The business is located adjacent to St. David’s Dewi Sant, which is known as Cardiff’s biggest shopping centre.

Founder

Justina John - Justina was raised in Tanzania, before moving to Cardiff over 25 years’ ago. She is a self-confessed foodie and mum of two boys. Justina has prior experience working in the hospitality sector, and it has always been her dream to open her own place showcasing the cuisine from her cultural roots.

Business purpose

ONJA brings the rich and diverse flavours of traditional Tanzanian cuisine to the heart of the city centre. The business offers a range of dishes that cater to the growing demand for authentic international cuisine in Cardiff.

Founded in 2024, ONJA provides authentic cuisine for dining in, delivery, and takeaway. Its menu features a diverse selection of dishes, including options for meat lovers, fish, vegetarians, and vegans alike.

ONJA is open for lunch and early evening meals from Wednesday to Sunday, while remaining closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and has in a region of 40 covers.

Funding

Date of most recent funding round: October 2024
Size: £25,000
The fund: Wales Micro Loan

Our investment provided Justina with a loan to assist with her start-up costs, helping fund the fit-out of her African restaurant and takeaway. ONJA opened on Monday 16 December 2024, providing Cardiff with a new dining experience that offers a taste of Tanzania.

What people are saying

Food is a universal language that fosters peace and ignites happiness. It brings people together, regardless of their status or background, reminding us that we all share a common bond through the joy of sharing a meal.

My passion is food. I’ve always loved cooking and have fond memories of my childhood, helping my Mum in the kitchen at home. However, the time has never been right to leave a secure job. The loan from the Development Bank has given me the confidence to take the leap of faith and follow my dreams. I feel like I was born to cook, and I can’t wait to share the taste of Tanzania with Cardiff.