Hoyo’s Kitchen

About Hoyo’s:

Brothers AB and Mohamed Hassan along with their mother wanted Hoyo’s Kitchen to be about building bridges for people through food, opening up Somali cuisine to the diverse palates of Columbus, and creating a comfortable space where both Somali and non-Somali patrons feel welcome to explore new flavors. By combining traditional Somali food with the modern fast-casual delivery method Hoyo’s has delicious options for their one of a kind bowls like: Goat, Beef & Chicken Suqaar. Safari Chicken, Mango Chicken (famous for this) and Veggie options. If you’re looking for a quick grab and go snack, try the Sambusas which are flavor packed pockets of goodness stuffed with your choice of Beef, Chicken or Veggies. Hoyo’s Kitchen also offers professional business and personal catering services across Columbus. Make sure you become part of this local sensation and get to know the food and the family creating it. 

How did the idea come about?

“Hoyo,” meaning “mother” in Somali, perfectly encapsulates the warmth and familial spirit that infuses every dish. The idea for Hoyo’s was born from A.B.’s realization after graduating and taking his first trip to Somalia. He was determined to bring Somali cuisine to the American mainstream. In 2014, Hoyo’s opened its first location at Columbus Square near 161 & Cleveland Ave. It quickly became a well known beloved local spot. That success caught the attention of Rick, who, along with his team at the North Market, visited the 161 location, enjoyed their meal, and recognized the unique culinary experience Hoyo’s offered. Knowing Columbus’s significant Somali population, Rick saw Hoyo’s as a vital and enriching addition to the North Market and they became a staple at both the Downtown and Bridge Park North Market locations.

What’s Your Favorite Thing About Being a Part of The North Market?

Being a part of the North Market holds immense significance for the Hassan family and Hoyo’s. Mohamed emphasizes that it’s more than just a place to sell food, it’s an opportunity to tell the story of Columbus and, more specifically, the story of Somali Americans. This supportive environment has been crucial, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, when Hoyo’s ran on a skeleton crew, with Mohamed, A.B., their sister, and their mom keeping everything afloat. The North Market, for Mohamed, is a “living organism that withstands the test of time.” He’s incredibly grateful for the strong sense of community and the amazing relationships forged with fellow merchants.

What are Must Orders on the Menu?

1. Mango Chicken
2. Both kinds of rice
3. Any of the Sambusa’s

Story of Hoyo’s Kitchen and the family behind it:

AB and Mohamed’s mother Hayat, was the culinary heart of the family, regularly preparing lavish Somali meals. A.B. was always by her side, helping with preparations, while Mohamed gladly took on the role of official taste-tester. It was a bold idea, but A.B.’s conviction, coupled with the family’s shared passion for food, convinced everyone to embark on this exciting journey. Now with three locations across Columbus, it has allowed Hoyo’s to introduce Somali cuisine to a much broader audience. They cherish seeing people out and about, seeing people and their families come in, building lasting relationships, and even knowing his customers’ orders by heart allowing them to build genuine relationships through food. Hoyo’s Kitchen truly embodies the spirit of family, community, and culinary innovation while sharing the rich tapestry of Somali flavors.

Phone:

614-683-8798

Merchant's operating hours:

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Monday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.