iSurprise Sithey

Co-owner and manager of Ameen Hotel

I was born in what is now The Rampart Hotel. There is a connection between all residents. I really love the Fort: it’s quiet and safe. We had so much freedom growing up here.
— Sithey Kadeeja Mohomad



A Fort staple


The restaurant started at our home. I began by making soup, then lunches and roti. Our dishes were popular so we decided to begin the business. That was 25 years ago. When we first opened, we sold fried rice and kottu roti. Now our bestseller is the rice and curry we serve at lunchtime. People also come and enjoy cups of tea. Normally, we are open all week apart from Fridays because of Jumma prayers. Our busiest times are between 8-10am and 12-2pm. During Ramadan we are very busy after 5pm when customers come to break their fast.


A meeting spot

Everybody comes to the restaurant and they are all friendly with us. People often refer to it as ‘akka’s (older sister’s) shop’. The community here is so nice. There is no racism. There is a connection between all residents. Everyone respects each other and there’s a lot of harmony. I love this job, especially as I am doing it in my home town.


Close to home


I don’t have a favourite spot in the Fort but I like the fact my house is here and in my free time, I enjoy taking walks.

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