Riyadh Munem
Fallujah entrepreneur finds success with traditional lablabi street cart
FALLUJAH – Riyadh Munem, 27, rides his electric bicycle every evening to the corniche in Fallujah, Anbar Governorate, where he operates a brightly lit cart selling lablabi, a traditional chickpea dish prepared by his family at home. Munem says he feels safe enough to leave his tools on-site at the end of the day, a testament to his confidence in the security of Fallujah.
“Lablabi,” a popular Middle Eastern dish, is typically served as a hot soup or stew, made primarily of boiled chickpeas in a broth flavored with garlic and other spices. Known for its simplicity and affordability, “lablabi” is a common street food, particularly during the colder months.
Munem’s journey to becoming a street food vendor began after health issues and professional challenges forced him to leave his carpentry job. Despite facing difficulties in continuing his education due to the period of Islamic State control in Fallujah, Munem found purpose in running his small business.
“I finally achieved my dream of opening a ‘lablabi’ cart on the Fallujah corniche, providing an income for myself and my family,” Munem told 964media. His electric bicycle’s battery powers the lights on his cart, and although “lablabi” is traditionally sold in the winter, Munem serves it year-round.
Offering two sizes—1,000 IQD ($0.65) for a large cup and 500 IQD ($0.32) for a small one—Munem’s customers include passersby and families enjoying the corniche, who appreciate the unique flavor of his dish.
At the end of each day, Munem leaves his cart and equipment behind, confident in the area’s safety and his proximity to home.
He also has a message for other young people: “Don’t stay at home waiting for money from your families. Go out, find work, and save enough to start your own project.”
Paralyzed Iraqi blacksmith defies odds, inspires with his craft
Skilled stonemason in Sulaymaniyah village discusses his 44 years of craftsmanship
