Based in the heart of Brighton, the inspiration and personality behind fabled restaurants Goa – Spice of Life and Mohammed – Spice of Life, chef Mohammed Assaduzaman brings fresh tastes, textures and flavours to create exciting new and traditional, nutritious, award winning, homecooked dishes from his native Bangladesh as well as some special Goanese and a few unusual favourites from the Indian subcontinent to Bismillah – Spice Of Life.
Chef Mohammed has over two decades of experience, as a chef in prominent Brighton establishments and running his own restaurants. He is a well known figure, actively involved locally, lending his considerable enthusiasm, energy and skills to many community initiatives, charitable and cultural organisations.
Already a pioneer in presenting Goanese recipes which proved to be very popular, Mohammed brought Goa – Spice Of Life to Richmond Parade, by St Peter’s. As well as providing these specialities, Mohammed also began introducing recipes from his own background, traditional, family specialities, reflecting his Bangladeshi origins.
A big personality, a friendly, personal approach, respect to all and his joy in presenting his winning cooking won Mohammed loyal customers. Not just hidden away, working unseen in the kitchen, Mohammed puts his heart into his cooking and his interaction with those who come to eat. Ably aided front of house by his brother, Atique, a visit to Goa – Spice of Life could be an invitation into the family.
In 2009 they moved along the coast, with media coverage as the local MP opened the new premises. The people of Saltdean enjoyed Mohammed’s relaxed cafe restaurant, which continued to attract customers happy to travel over from Brighton to savour his food and the ‘spice of life’ experience.
The revamping of the Brighton Open Market, once a crucial centre of Brighton’s commercial hubbub, spurred Mohammed into returning to the heart of Brighton. He took on the lease of a new Unit within the rebuilt complex when it opened in 2014, creating Mohammed – Spice Of Life, a food and ethnic groceries market outlet.
Rather than produce the widest range of standard Indian restaurant dishes, Mohammed concentrates on showcasing more unusual dishes, some ‘downhome’ family favourites and some special dishes. Alongside this, Mohammed offers private catering for all occasions. Now he is expanding, with his new cafe restaurant and takeaway Bismillah – Spice Of Life, just around the corner by The Level. This allows more community involvement, special banquet occasions and the space to develop tuition classes, sharing his joy in his culture and cooking.