JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Jacksonville Afghan restaurant owner says a single social media post turned his struggling business around — and may have saved his family in the process.
Sayed Hashimi, owner of Mashell’s Kitchen, opened the restaurant in May 2025. But just months later, his family was hit with a wave of hardships that threatened everything he had worked for.
“I’m struggling with Parkinson’s, and then my daughter had to have scoliosis surgery,” Hashimi said.
From Afghanistan to Jacksonville
Hashimi’s story begins long before the restaurant. He told News4JAX that his family fled Afghanistan in the 1980s during the Soviet-Afghan War, seeking a better life in the United States.
“This is the land of opportunity, you know. This is a great country,” Hashimi said.
The restaurant was named after his daughter, Maschall, who was just 13 years old when she underwent scoliosis surgery — not long after the family had opened their doors to the public.
Viral video brings customers flooding in
The business was struggling to attract customers until a man named Abdullah posted a video to social media sharing the family’s story in hopes of helping them out. The post quickly gained traction, and the response was immediate.
“They came in, they wanted to know if the hype was real,” Hashimi said. “They pay for everything. Without the customers, you can’t pay the bills.”
In addition to the surge in business, a customer launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the family’s mounting medical expenses.
“He said, ‘I would like to raise funds for you guys and help you get back on your feet,’” Hashimi said.
Giving back, even while struggling
Perhaps the most remarkable part of Hashimi’s story is what he does with what little he has. Even while facing financial and medical hardship, he continues to give back to those around him.
“We see homeless people struggling… we pack up food for them,” Hashimi said.
When asked how he finds the capacity to help others while barely getting by himself, his answer was simple.
“You have to give back to your community because your community will give back to you,” he said.
As for keeping the momentum going, Hashimi said his plan is straightforward: “Just provide great customer service and treat our customers like family.”
To donate to Sayed’s family to assist with their medical bills, you can visit the GoFundMe link here: Fundraiser for Sajeda Hashimi by John V : Help Sayed Save His Restaurant & Family