Amigo and Copas Central, neighboring one another, are located in a quiet street off the 1st circle. Amigo, with a retro feel began its operation in 2004. However, its conception came about in the early 70s, when it flourished and was one of the famous hangouts of the golden era. Now Amigo remains to thrive with its old and new clientele and enjoys a funky style with an alternative scene, different to the mainstream spots in Amman. You’ll enjoy chilled beer, various cocktails and one of the best burgers in town, with an option to play a game of pool or watch a aired soccer game. There’s small outdoor seating for a breath of fresh air! Copas Central, a more recent addition to ATICO Fakhreldin Group, came to life in 2015, as the first Latin inspired bar/lounge in Amman and serves signature drinks, cocktails and tapas. The large bar brings together a laid-back atmosphere, over looking mixed seating options including stools and tables, sofas and regular tables. You’re also sure to notice the distinctive Martinique wallpaper which creates a Latin ambiance. The outdoor terrace, next to the Pomelo tree operates during fair weather.
We met with Mr. Alaa Dabash, Amigo and Copas Central Manager who’s been part of ATICO Fakhreldin Group for over 15 years.
Tell us a little about your journey with ATICO Fakhreldin Group.
I began working for ATICO Fakhreldin Group at Vinaigrette in 2001, as a bartender. It was a challenging experience. After that I was assigned to work at Amigo. It was then that I began building stronger skills to help me with the customer service. After that I was reassigned again to work at Nai. It was like a dream come true, after working at Amigo. It was a great accomplishment to work as the Head Bartender, responsible for one of the best lounges known in Amman, at that time. It was a large bar and I had the full responsibility for the place. For me it was the best experience and time. Shortly after Nai closed, I was again relocated to the new Italian restaurant at AlQasr Metropole Hotel. I was part of the team in charge of the renovation and soft opening. It was an excellent chance for me to build familiarity in Italian food and wines. Shortly, once again I was back at Amigo as Assistant Manager. It was then that I challenged myself and became better, building connections with clients and proving that I can deal with various customers with many differences and personalities. Soon I became Amigo Manager, where I had to challenge myself again to work on the standards and experiences I had learnt during my countless positions at ATICO Fakhreldin Group.
How do you feel about your new position as a Manager for two outlets?
I had and offer, about a year ago, to become Copas Central Manager while remaining as Amigo Manager. It was a real pleasure to be in such a position, and get such a generous offer. Although I was over whelmed with the new responsibility, I worked hard to implement the vision I have acquired from being part of the ATICO Fakhreldin Group and put all my know-how, over the years into practice. I couldn’t be happier, earning this title, where I have so much gratitude and so much respect for ATICO Fakhreldin Group, and the owners, the Fakhreldin family. I love proving myself, by maintaining high standards in the new task that I was given. This can’t be achieved without hard work and willing to improve the team. I look forward to new challenges and opportunities at ATICO Fakhreldin Group, since I am part of the family.
To make a good manager you need to be…….
Patient with the customers and try to satisfy them in every way. Be a team player and ready to work under pressure. You should also be open for new ideas and concepts.
“If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Do you agree?
Yes of course it will help to create a lovely atmosphere with the team, which automatically reflects on the clients.
Tell us a funny incident that happened at work.
We were celebrating
Earth Hour, a few years back. This event unites people to
protect the planet. Its when millions of people and thousands of business
worldwide turn off lights and shut down most electrical appliances to celebrate
sustainability and show their support for strategies that will help solve the
problem of global warming. So we switched the lights off for an hour and lit up
Amigo completely with candles only. But I totally forgot to switch off the TVs!
When we took the pictures and looked at them later, we realized what a big
mistake we had done!
