Tyler Du Toit is the owner of fast-food restaurant Hungry Hobos on George Street. Tyler is a young person embarking on his business journey. We asked Tyler 10 questions about his business and what he’s looking forward to as a result of the Retail Quarter upgrade.

When did your business begin?

The business has been operating for four years. It was started by a chef who had travelled through the USA and noticed that all states had local toasted sandwich shops. He wanted to bring this back to Dunedin because he was a local boy.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

I bought the business in July 2021. I didn’t want to work for anyone else and wanted to be in charge of my own destiny.

What was your first objective when you founded your business?

I wanted to keep the reputation of the business as a Dunedin world-famous foodie destination.

What methods do you use to promote your business?

We are on most social media channels including Facebook and Instagram. Some of my staff want me to go on Tik Tok but we haven’t gone there yet. We are also on UberEATS. We have a real mix of clients – a lot of students and also families. Sunday is a great day for recovery food following celebrations and exercise.

What awards has Hungry Hobos won?

Voted Best Cheese Roll 2019

Great Toastie Takeover Winner 2020

What are you looking forward to when the roadworks are finished and the new layout is in place?

Not having all the noise and having more footpath space. The new layout looks exciting when completed…

What is your most popular product?

They all are, although Mac and Cheese is a favourite on Sundays for recovering from the night before.

If you could have dinner with a celebrity, who would it be and why?

Ashton Kutcher. He is investing in entrepreneurial businesses and I would enjoy picking his brains on how to grow business success.

What is your favourite music and movies?

I am into bands with a heavy rock influence. My movies are Pirates of the Caribbean, the Harry Potter series and great horror movies.