The owner of two popular Adelaide restaurants has died from a suspected heart attack, causing widespread grief among customers and loved ones.
Mustaque Hassan, owner of the award-winning Bollywood Grill and CocoBees in North Haven, Adelaide, passed away last Wednesday night.
The 56-year-old is fondly remembered as a beloved father, employer and mentor, who brought joy to so many people through his food.
Local leader Mahbub Siraz said Hassan’s impact was immense.
Mustaque Hassan (pictured), the owner of two restaurants in suburban Adelaide, died last Wednesday.
The 56-year-old owns the award-winning Bollywood Grill and CocoBees in North Haven.
“He was a big-hearted person, very supportive of the community, famous for his great hospitality, and employed many job seekers in his business,” Siraz wrote on Facebook.
“May Allah give his family members patience, courage and strength to bear this great loss.”
As tributes flowed, Mr Hassan was remembered as a humble and kind man.
‘RIP Musti, we spent many happy hours talking to you enjoying your beautiful food,’ said one customer.
“Such a loss, I will miss the laughter, your enthusiasm, so many laughs and good memories in Bollywood and most recently at Coco’s,” said another.
‘I am deeply saddened to learn of Mustaque’s passing. “He was one of the nicest restaurateurs I’ve ever met,” a third person said.
‘His happy, smiling face will surely be missed, the residents of North Haven will be saddened to hear of this. It’s also a loss for local businesses,” said another.
His family farewelled him last night at a funeral at the Gold Coast Mosque in Queensland, and a committal service was held at Lower Coomera Cemetery on Thursday morning.