Kozhikode is famously known as the land of food lovers. Renowned for its love of traditional flavors, the aroma of heritage, and the touch of innovation, Kozhikode has always been a city that embraces new culinary experiences. Good food alone isn’t enough—it’s about the presentation, the emotion it evokes, and the memories it creates. When all of this comes together, a dish becomes unforgettable.
For Rafiq, a true son of Kozhikode, the passion for food and entrepreneurship ran deep in his veins. Though his family had been involved in various types of businesses, his heart was set on doing something distinct in the food industry.
His journey began in 2018, when he put up a food stall at OFIR, a large cultural festival held in Kozhikode. Surrounded by cuisines from different communities, Rafiq’s active participation earned him praise and encouragement, igniting the spark to launch his own food venture.
With the collaboration of the highly experienced chef Jubeesh Kumar, the idea of The Shap evolved from a dream into a strong, shared mission. Both of them believed in offering delicious food, excellent service, and uncompromised hygiene—especially crucial in a place like Kozhikode, where food is taken seriously. Thanks to this commitment, The Shap quickly became a favorite hangout spot for several celebrities.
Later that same year, Rafiq discovered a 150–200-year-old heritage building near Kozhikode Beach. What followed was an ambitious effort to transform it into a heritage dining experience. After nearly a year and a half of renovations, under the glow of the moonlight by the sea, The SHAP was born—a restaurant known for its diverse flavors, innovative presentations, and authentic atmosphere.
Unlike most other restaurants in Kozhikode that focus primarily on Malabar cuisine, Rafiq’s vision was to introduce the wider range of Kerala’s culinary identity to the local palate.
To preserve the essence of traditional flavors, The Shap incorporated several unique features—serving food on banana leaves and clay pots, presenting dishes in vintage styles, and offering distinct plating for each item. With an extensive and thoughtfully curated menu—especially rich in seafood varieties—The Shap quickly earned recognition. In 2020, 2024, and 2025, it received numerous prestigious awards from across India.
In 2022, The Shap opened its second outlet at Gokulam Mall. Today, both outlets combined provide employment to nearly 100 people. The keys to The Shap’s success include top-notch food quality, outstanding service, unadulterated ingredients, and consistent branding. Everything—from the table patterns to the interior design—has been carefully crafted to build a unique identity, helping The Shap win a place in the hearts of Kozhikode’s food lovers.
Rafiq’s journey is a testament to the fact that building a successful business doesn’t happen overnight. Every stage requires clarity of direction and unwavering dedication, values that he continues to demonstrate through The Shap’s growth and legacy.
