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Chef Tolu “Eros” Erogbogbo realized he was one billionaire it's not just about the amount of money you have – it's also a mindset.
Erogbogbo is the Chief Executive Officer of Eros & Gourmet Foods, the founder and CEO of Cookie Jar Bakery in Lagos, Nigeria and the visionary behind the Nigerian gourmet restaurant iLÉ EROS.
His journey took him from West Africa to Los Angeles in 2021 to pursue his dream of building a culinary brand.
Known for his growing legion of followers as @thebillionairechefErogbogbo did not always imagine himself under this great label. What started as a temporary Instagram handle became a powerful statement of his aspirations. “It was supposed to be just for that weekend,” he says.
However, when Instagram suddenly verified his account, there was no going back. He embraced the title of billionaire chef and began to see it as a daily reminder to operate with the mindset of someone destined for greatness.
“I put that hat on my head and started asking myself questions,” he says. “How does the story of a billionaire boss begin?”
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One of Erogbogbo's biggest moments was when Chase Sapphire invited him to appear on Taste of West Africa ad with an actor Michael B. Jordan.
This commercial project wasn't just another cooking gig; it celebrated West African cuisine – bringing together influential figures from diverse backgrounds to discuss food and culture and showcase the passion and pride of the culinary community.
“The ad is centered around community and dining, specifically to have a conversation about West African food,” says Erogbogbo.
Advantages of doing business in the USA
Navigating the culinary landscapes of West Africa and the United States has presented unique challenges and opportunities. Erogbogbo notes that although the US boasts a fully developed dining culture with easy access to various ingredients, Nigeria's food scene is still emerging.
Despite the challenges, he is optimistic about the future of Nigeria's cuisine. He acknowledges that although running a business may be less expensive due to lower labor costs, the pace of growth and development differs greatly from that of the United States.
“There is such a huge dining culture here, compared to Nigeria, where the dining culture is just developing,” he reflects.
Erogbogbo's journey is a testament to his unwavering belief in his vision. From embracing his aspirational title to making his mark on the world of African and American cuisine, he continues to push the boundaries, one dish at a time.
“My goal in television is to tell stories; it's to educate, enlighten and inspire,” he says.
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