Leo Osmanollaj, alongside his brothers Pep and Jim, ventured into the restaurant industry with a simple yet ambitious idea: to bring a taste of their heritage to the bustling streets of Philadelphia. Despite their lack of experience in the restaurant business, the Osmanollaj brothers’ dedication and innovative approach quickly bore fruit, leading to the expansion of their culinary empire across the city.
In 2016, the brothers fulfilled their dreams of entrepreneurship and opened their first restaurant, “Haveaburger,” in Havertown, Pennsylvania. Serving delicious, handcrafted burgers, Haveaburger quickly becomes a local favorite. In 2018, they opened their first mini-chain, “m2o Burgers & Salads,” in Philadelphia. The restaurant offers a wide range of made-to-order burgers and fresh, healthy salads, garnering praise from locals and visitors.
Toska, one of the Osmanollaj brothers’ recent ventures, is a testament to their pride in their Albanian roots and desire to share it with a broader audience. Envisioned as a space that serves food and celebrates Albanian culture, Toska is adorned with elements that reflect the rich heritage of their homeland. The design combines modernity and tradition, creating an inviting and culturally enriching ambiance.
The Osmanollaj family’s journey to the United States is a narrative of resilience and aspiration. Escaping the turmoil of the Kosovo war, they arrived in America hoping for a brighter future. Settling in Philadelphia, they embarked on various endeavors before realizing their dream of entrepreneurship. Their story symbolizes the immigrant experience, marked by hard work, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity.
In their latest project, Baba’s Hot Chicken, the Osmanollaj brothers pay homage to their grandfather, affectionately known as ‘Baba.’ Inspired by their love for Nashville hot chicken and their grandfather’s influence, they created a brand embodying family values and culinary excellence. Featuring their grandfather’s image as the logo and incorporating photographs of him with chickens, the restaurant is not just a business venture but a heartfelt tribute to a beloved family patriarch.
Leo and his brothers’ endeavors go beyond mere business success; they aim to foster a sense of community and cultural pride. Toska, with its Albanian-themed decor and menu, serves as a platform for cultural exchange, inviting patrons to explore and appreciate the richness of Albanian traditions. Through their restaurants, the Osmanollaj brothers contribute to the cultural tapestry of Philadelphia, promoting diversity and understanding through the universal language of food.
The Osmanollaj brothers continue to dream big as they look to the future. Their engagement with the local Albanian community, including participating in cultural events and supporting educational initiatives, reflects their dedication to giving back and fostering a sense of unity and pride among Albanians in Philadelphia.
Leo Osmanollaj and his brothers embody the spirit of entrepreneurialism, cultural pride, and community service. Through their culinary ventures, they offer a taste of Albanian food to Philadelphia and weave the rich fabric of their culture into the city’s diverse community.
