Abdirahman Kahin Will Open Martiya Restaurant in Minneapolis
The restaurant will begin a monthlong soft opening at the Opportunity Crossing development on October 1.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Entrepreneur Abdirahman Kahin will launch his new halal restaurant, Martiya, on October 1, 2026. The eatery is situated on the ground floor of the Opportunity Crossing development near Lake Street and Nicollet Avenue.
Why it matters
Kahin aims to provide the local neighborhood with a high-quality dining option that serves as a special-occasion destination. The founder noted that this opening addresses a specific lack of such spaces for Somali and African diners in the area.
The restaurant is opening as part of the Opportunity Crossing project, an affordable housing and commercial development. This launch follows Kahin's recognition as the 2023 U.S. Small Business Administration National Small Business Person of the Year.
The players
Abdirahman Kahin
He is a prominent local entrepreneur and the founder of Afro Deli who was recognized as the 2023 U.S. Small Business Administration National Small Business Person of the Year.
The details
Martiya, a name that means guest in Somali, occupies the ground floor of the newly developed Opportunity Crossing building. The establishment represents an expansion for Kahin, who is also the founder of the well-known local chain Afro Deli.
Timeline
2023: Abdirahman Kahin was named the U.S. Small Business Administration National Small Business Person of the Year.
October 1, 2026: Martiya begins its monthlong soft opening.
Market Landscape
The restaurant opening follows a trend of expansion by recipients of the U.S. Small Business Administration National Small Business Person of the Year award. This move positions Kahin to further influence the local culinary market by introducing a new, specialized dining concept.
Local diners gain a new high-quality halal restaurant option at the intersection of Lake Street and Nicollet Avenue. Residents of the Opportunity Crossing development will have immediate access to this new commercial space starting in October.
The takeaway
The addition of Martiya highlights the growing role of mixed-use developments in providing essential services to urban neighborhoods. Residents can look forward to a new venue that blends cultural heritage with community-focused dining options.
What happens next
Following the October 1, 2026, soft opening, the restaurant is expected to operate throughout the month before finalizing its permanent service model.
Further reading
For more updates on local restaurant launches, visit the Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Star Tribune.
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