We had the good fortune of connecting with Mounir Ouaddi Ali Ouaddi and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mounir Ouaddi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Ali is an entrepreneur from the beginning of his career. He is young, ambitious, but has no desire to work for anyone. He is also foodie and likes to try new things. Healthy food is his thing.
Mounir, the uncle, has over 35 years of corporate America where he spent it all in technology and software. His experience in customer support and success shows his passion for serving people.
Ali and Mounir make up a team where they compliment each other and look to serve the DTLA community. The thought is to be our own bosses, but also do something that not only serves the community, but also addresses the health and wellness space in DTLA.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Toastique has been an incredible journey for my family and me. What sets us apart is our focus on combining wellness, quality, and convenience. We’re not just serving food, we’re creating an experience that energizes people and supports a healthy lifestyle, whether it’s through our gourmet toasts, smoothie bowls, or cold-pressed juices. We take pride in using fresh, clean ingredients, and our team is dedicated to making every visit feel welcoming and vibrant.
I’m most proud of the growth we’ve achieved as a family. My nephew Ali and I came together because we shared a passion for entrepreneurship, hospitality, and creating a space where people feel good about what they eat. Expanding Toastique into Southern California, particularly in Downtown LA, is incredibly exciting. We’re bringing the brand’s modern aesthetic and innovative menu to a vibrant community full of energy and opportunity.
Getting here wasn’t always easy. Every business faces its own set of challenges, like finding the right location, navigating regulations, and ensuring operational excellence while staying true to the brand’s values. What helped us overcome these challenges was a combination of perseverance, staying focused on our vision, and constantly learning from every experience. Building strong relationships in the community and with industry peers has also been invaluable.
The biggest lessons I’ve learned are to always lead with integrity, never underestimate the power of collaboration, and remember that every setback is an opportunity to grow.
Toastique is more than a restaurant; it’s a brand that celebrates wellness, community, and innovation. I’m someone who believes in hard work, family, and creating spaces where people can feel their best while enjoying food they love.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting LA, we’d start with a sunrise run along the beach to kick off the day. From there, we’d hike Griffith Park, wander Venice Beach, and explore downtown’s hidden corners. I love just diving into the city, checking out galleries, markets, live shows, and meeting the creative, inspiring people who make LA what it is. By the end of the week, they’d feel the city’s energy, diversity, and heart; adventurous, fun, and unforgettable, with plenty of stories to take home.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Big shout out to the immediate family that has always encouraged Ali is follow his instincts and fulfill his dream of entrepreneurialship. Ali received a kick start from his late dad, and that gives him extra motivation.
For Mounir, huge recopnition has to go out to the family as well, especially the wife and the 2 sons Omar and Amine. Furthermore, it is all about sports for Mounir, and seeing some of the sports figures branching out on their own after their career is over with a high level of motivation, consistency and integrity. In the words of the great one (Wayne Greatzky): You will miss 100% of the shots you never take. So, a great shout out to the sports world for teaching me that competition is a good thing, and that I can have a second career with something I am passionate about.
Website: https://toastique.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toastique/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mounir-ouaddi/
Image Credits
The two product images can be credited to Toastique
