Speaker Biographies
THRIVE
Three days of market insight, investment discussion, founder-led exchange and hospitality experiences across Dubai.
Natasha Sideris
CEO & Founder, Tashas Group
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Growing up in the restaurant business, by her father’s side, Natasha Sideris inherited a deep passion for hospitality that would become her life’s calling. While completing her BA in Psychology at Wits University in South Africa, Natasha worked in restaurants, before going on to own a Nino’s franchise. During this chapter of her career, she identified a gap in the market for a simple, un-themed daytime concept centred around beautiful food, stunning environments and impeccable service — laying the foundation for the first tashas, which opened in Johannesburg in 2005.
Little did she know that this inaugural venture would set the stage for a remarkable journey. Today, Natasha Sideris is the CEO & Founder of Tashas Group, a name synonymous with excellence in the hospitality industry. Her relentless pursuit of perfection and unwavering commitment to quality have earned her several industry awards and regional recognition. In May 2024, Natasha Sideris was awarded an honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in Management Studies: Entrepreneurship by the University of South Africa (UNISA). This accolade recognises her bold entrepreneurial vision in cultivating inclusive growth toward economic development across South Africa.
Under Natasha’s visionary leadership, Tashas Group has flourished, boasting 47 venues across 14 concepts and five countries, serving the needs of different segments in the hospitality landscape — from casual all-day dining and elevated dining to quick casual concepts, globally recognised bars and lifestyle retail. Natasha’s unique touch is evident in every facet of her venues, from meticulously curated menus, developed in collaboration with Culinary Director Jill Okkers, to her distinctive approach to interior design.
Natasha, alongside her brother and co-founder, Savva, who has worked with her since 2008, has spearheaded Tashas Group’s expansion into international markets with locations in South Africa, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UK, with more openings in the works. Her dedication to bringing each concept to life authentically is evident in her hands-on involvement in every aspect of the business. For example, during the curation of Avli by tashas, Natasha took the team on a research trip to Greece, allowing them to immerse themselves in the culture, gather inspiration and return with concrete ideas to refine the concept in the most authentic way possible.
Over the years, Natasha has created a portfolio of celebrated concepts including tashas, Flamingo Room by tashas, Avli by tashas, Bungalo34, Galaxy Bar, Perlage, NALA and Le Parc by tashas. Most recently, the Group expanded further with the launch of Cafe Sofi, Arlecchino and Tashas Home — concepts that demonstrate Natasha’s continued passion for creating spaces that are layered with story, design, emotion and a deep sense of hospitality.
Natasha’s influence extends far beyond the kitchen. She is the author of two best-selling cookbooks, tashas Café Classics, a collection of her favourite recipes and most popular dishes from the menus, and tashas Inspired, drawing inspiration from her global travels and rich Greek-South African heritage. In 2025, she also published Galaxy Bar Cocktails, an elegant collection celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship and artistry behind one of the world’s most acclaimed cocktail bars.
With a team of approximately 2,000 individuals spanning multiple countries and continents, Natasha fosters a culture of growth and development, resulting in exceptional employee retention and long-standing loyalty within the Group. Under her watchful leadership, guidance and mentorship, employees within the business have grown from scullers to general managers.
Natasha’s dedication has earned international acclaim, with Tashas Group’s venues receiving prestigious accolades, including mentions in Gault&Millau, the Michelin Guide and the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Galaxy Bar, founded by Natasha in 2019, has been recognised globally for its world-class cocktail programme and design-led guest experience.
In a career spanning well over two decades, Natasha has become a true trailblazer in the hospitality industry. Her innovative concepts, dedication to quality and commitment to nurturing her team’s growth have redefined the landscape of modern hospitality. Natasha Sideris is not just a CEO; she is a compassionate leader, creative visionary and a true beacon in the world of hospitality.
For more information about Tashas Group, visit Tashas Group.