Bergham: “Fast Casual” dining at its best

Mostafa Haji and Hazem Fareh are the proud owners of the newest restaurant in the Heart of Orléans. With 17 locations in Quebec, Centrale Bergham (or simply Bergham as it’s known by regulars) has gained a well-deserved reputation as a fantastic “Fast Casual” restaurant where you can get excellent and tasty food. Bergham has expanded to Ontario and we’re so glad it is here!

The first thing you’ll notice when you receive your food is that – unlike truly “fast food” restaurants – the veggies are crisp and the sauces are fresh.

Haji and Fareh say that their best seller is the Philly Steak Sandwich and, once you give it a try, you’ll see why. The bun is oven-fresh, the sauce is flavourful, and the meat is delicious. The perfect trifecta. Bergham is also known for its amazing sauces, ranging from mild to spicy, but always scrumptious. You can pick up a bottle of the most famous one, the Algerian sauce, to use at home. And, all the pickings from the menu are halal.

Haji and Fareh met while working at another Bergham location in Ottawa and, before they knew it, they decided they enjoyed working together so much that they wanted to take the opportunity to open another one. Orléans, it turns out, was the perfect location for the new establishment – and Haji and Fareh love it here.  “We love the sense of community here and how friendly people are,” Fareh notes.

When Mostafa and Hazem were in the planning stages of opening their restaurant, they had no idea a pandemic was going to enter the picture. But, they’re brave, young souls and they decided to go for it. Their gamble paid off. Patrons filled – and ordered out from – the restaurant after the grand opening on July 3. They were happy. And, so were their customers.

But the resumption of “lockdown” measures by the Ontario government in early October took its toll. “We’re hanging in there because we know we are part of a great and successful restaurant franchise. Based on the success of the first three months, I’m sure business will pick up again after the current lockdown measures pass,” says Fareh.

He notes that, even though the dining room is now closed due to lockdown regulations, you can still order from Bergham on the delivery apps, Ubereats, Skip the Dishes and DoorDash, and they’re open for pick up. When you’re considering your next food order, give them a try, if you haven’t already. You’ll be glad you did. #eatlocal #isupportbiabiz