The Life of Finn Lagun: From Pasta Evangelists to Global Traveler
Finn Lagun, the millennial co-founder of Pasta Evangelists, is not just a culinary entrepreneur but also an avid traveler, having explored 68 countries and counting. As he plans his next adventures in Lebanon and Syria, Lagun embodies the spirit of modern entrepreneurship—balancing professional success with a passion for cultural exploration.
Pasta Evangelists: A Journey to Success
Pasta Evangelists was born in 2016 when Lagun joined forces with his co-founder, Alessandro Savelli, after Savelli attended a pasta-making class. Despite facing skepticism on the popular TV show Dragon’s Den, where they were famously told their idea was “pasta le disaster,” the duo persevered. Within just two years, their company generated £14 million in revenue and was acquired by Barilla for £40 million, positioning Pasta Evangelists as the UK’s leading fresh pasta subscription service.
The Financial Perspective
When asked about his best investment, Lagun cites his first home in Hackney, which he purchased for £575,000. “Getting on the property ladder in inner London is a solid long-term investment,” he reflects. On the flip side, his first car, bought for £12,000, turned out to be a poor investment after a series of mishaps caused its value to plummet.
Personal Finance Wisdom
Looking back, Lagun wishes he could advise his 20-year-old self to maintain the financial discipline he once had. He recalls meticulously tracking his expenses in an Excel spreadsheet, a habit he admits has waned with time. “I’ve ascribed greater importance to ‘joie de vivre’ and loosened the purse strings,” he says.
Daily Life and Indulgences
Lagun’s daily life is filled with simple pleasures and indulgences. A self-proclaimed music lover, he relies on Spotify for daily inspiration, enjoying genres from 60s jazz to 90s neosoul. His coffee preferences are unpretentious—favoring instant coffee at the office and indulging in cappuccinos or macchiatos when out.
Dining Preferences
When it comes to food, Lagun is discerning. A poor meal can “ruin his day,” so he ensures he enjoys diverse cuisines, often ordering from Deliveroo. For business lunches, he opts for convenient but flavorful options, like steak from Flat Iron. His grocery shopping typically happens at M&S, conveniently located near his home.
Unwinding and Treats
After a long day, Lagun enjoys unwinding with a well-stocked bar at home, where he experiments with intriguing liqueurs from his travels. His go-to drink is a Hendrick’s gin with cucumber, complemented by Italian licorice.
In a surprising twist, Lagun humorously mentions his decision to enhance his appearance with cosmetic surgery in 2021, a testament to his belief in personal investment.
Future Adventures and Cultural Inspirations
With a travel goal of visiting 75 countries by the end of 2024, Lagun’s next destinations—Lebanon and Syria—reflect his love for the Islamic world. He appreciates the rich hospitality, exquisite architecture, and culinary delights these regions offer. “The food of the Middle East is fantastic and a source of enduring inspiration,” he notes.
Conclusion: A Life Well-Lived
Finn Lagun’s journey illustrates how success can be defined not only by financial achievements but also by the richness of experiences and personal growth. His story encourages others to pursue their passions, travel the world, and savor the joy of life’s simple pleasures
