Iraqi businessman Zaid Nazo has always been sure of his nation's deep passion for food and wasn't afraid to dream big when he transformed his small Baghdad coffee shop in 1999 into a casual dining and take-away restaurant. Today, the 41-year-old father of two has opened four branches and his chain is one of the most popular in Iraq.

Many Iraqi entrepreneurs are finding restaurants and eateries a safe business bet, despite the country's slumping economy, prevailing violence and an ongoing war with the Islamic State group.

The food business is booming. There are 40 percent more restaurants in Baghdad today than there were in 2013 - when security and economic conditions in the country were much better - according to Shakir al-Zamili, the chairman of Baghdad Investment Commission.