Meet Dan Homaijani | Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dan Homaijani and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I noticed the lack of vegan food in the area and I wanted to provide the community with a delicious meal that deceives the senses. I planned to launch a concept where you would have no idea the food is vegan. This food is meant to replicate a traditional gourmet burger joint without harming any animals.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I knew I wanted to start my own business from the day I started school at ASU. As the name of the restaurant implies, I wanted to create a new, unique concept. I knew I needed something more than a prospering business to give me fulfillment in life. This restaurant has opened many people’s eyes to what vegan food can be. I have had many customers who have come in close-minded when they realize the food is plant-based. I have convinced many people to stay and they are blown away. Many non-vegan people tell me this is the best burger they have had. Providing people with a delicious, ethical, and sustainable option gives me that fulfillment I was looking for. I built a business from the ground up that actually makes a difference. I went in this business with no knowledge of the foodservice industry and learned so much along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Whenever my friends visit from out of town, UNiQ is the always the first stop. My friends from out of state have watched the entire process of UNiQ turning from a dream to reality, so they are excited to see it in person. We always end up hitting the clubs in Old Town Scottsdale and often venture to Downtown Phoenix so they have a taste of all the exciting nightlife. We have to hit the pool at some point of the trip as well to fight the heat. One of my favorite places to eat when I am not at UNiQ is Tacos Veganos, so that is definitely on the list of stops. I usually take them on a walk through Scottsdale and Tempe as well to get a feel for the state. Sedona is also one of my favorite places to show people who have never been to Arizona.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a special thank you to my family, friends, and the vegan community. The support I had from all these people when UNiQ was merely an idea gave me the drive I needed to turn my dream into a reality. There were moments I was discouraged and lost. These people believed in the idea I had and the support drove me to where I am today.

Website: www.uniqburger.com

Instagram: @uniqburger

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tryuniq

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/uniq-burger-scottsdale-2

Image Credits
Gabe Williams