Early Life and Passion for Cooking
Born into a warm Armenian-Lebanese family, Chef Zarmig Halladjian’s love for cooking started at a young age. Growing up in Lebanon, she was deeply influenced by her mother’s hospitality and generosity. The family’s kitchen was always filled with enticing aromas and delicious meals prepared for guests, shaping Zarmig’s understanding of food as a symbol of love and togetherness.
From an early age, she found joy in helping her mother cook, absorbing the nuances of traditional flavors and techniques. Her passion only grew stronger, leading her to dream of a career where she could merge her love for food with her artistic instincts.
Academic Pursuits in Culinary Arts and Business
Determined to hone her skills professionally, Zarmig pursued formal education in hospitality and culinary arts. She earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality from Al Kafaat University in Lebanon, followed by an Associate Diploma in Applied Sciences for Culinary Arts from a prestigious culinary institute.
However, her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. She later earned a master’s degree in business management from Liverpool University, London, and is currently finalizing another master’s in public health management from Roehampton University, UK. This diverse educational background equipped her with both culinary expertise and business acumen, allowing her to excel in multiple domains.
Breaking Barriers in the Culinary Industry
Chef Zarmig began her professional journey as an Executive Chef at the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon, a role that set the stage for her illustrious career. Her unique approach to food presentation and flavor combinations quickly gained attention.
She later joined a renowned five-star hotel as a Kitchen Artist Chef, where she amazed guests with her intricate food carvings made from chocolate, ice, fruits, and vegetables. These visually stunning creations earned her widespread recognition and set her apart as a culinary artist.
Beyond cooking, Zarmig became a respected Food & Beverage Consultant and a lecturer in food safety and hygiene. Her expertise in nutrition led her to collaborate with medical institutions, including Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, where she served as a Diabetic Consultant, helping individuals adopt healthier eating habits.
Culinary Entrepreneurship and Restaurant Success
With an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for her heritage, Chef Zarmig ventured into the restaurant business, successfully launching several dining establishments that celebrated Armenian and Lebanese cuisine.
- DZAR Restaurant – Located in Beirut, this restaurant offered a fusion of Armenian and Lebanese flavors, preserving traditional tastes while adding a modern touch.
- Laylaty Restaurant – A well-known eatery famous for its authentic Lebanese dishes, drawing food lovers from all over.
- Mamig Restaurant – As the Executive Chef and Director of Operations at Mamig, the first Armenian-Lebanese restaurant in Qatar, she brought high-end dining to Doha’s Katara Cultural Village, introducing patrons to a luxurious yet authentic culinary experience.
These ventures not only established her as a leading chef but also allowed her to share her rich culinary heritage with a global audience.
Television Fame and Media Presence
With her vibrant personality and extensive knowledge, Chef Zarmig became a sought-after television personality. She graced the screens of various Arab television channels, hosting cooking and lifestyle programs that resonated with viewers.
Her longest-running TV shows included a cooking show on Qatar TV, where she shared her signature recipes, and an etiquette show on Al Jazeera, where she educated audiences on refined dining traditions. Her ability to combine education with entertainment made her a household name in the Middle East’s culinary scene.
Prolific Author and Literary Contributions
Beyond her culinary ventures, Zarmig has made significant contributions as an author. She has written over 24 books, covering a wide range of topics from traditional and modern recipes to the art of food carving. Some of her notable works include:
- “Culinary Art Secrets” – A deep dive into professional cooking techniques and presentation.
- “The Art of Carving” – Showcasing the delicate craftsmanship behind fruit and vegetable carving.
- “Mamig” – A tribute to Armenian-Lebanese cuisine, featuring time-honored recipes and stories.
Her books serve as a bridge between generations, ensuring that culinary traditions are passed down and preserved.
Expanding Artistic Horizons: A Journey Beyond Cooking
Chef Zarmig’s artistic talents are not limited to food. Her passion for visual arts led her to experiment with sculpture and painting. Initially, she expressed her creativity through food carvings, but over time, she transitioned to painting, developing a unique style that involved painting with her fingers rather than brushes.
In 2017, she held a solo exhibition, “Inspiration of the Fruit of Susie Tree,” at Katara Cultural Village in Doha, where she showcased 40 of her paintings. Her artwork, mainly depicting women and their emotions, was praised for its bold strokes and expressive storytelling.
Accolades and Global Recognition
Chef Zarmig’s contributions have earned her numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Qatar Chef of the Year – Recognized for her culinary excellence in 2014, 2016, and 2017.
- Queen of Armenian Cuisine – Honored in 2015 for her role in promoting Armenian culinary traditions.
- Qatar Woman of the Year – Awarded in 2016 for her impact on the culinary and hospitality industry.
- Best Armenian Entrepreneur Worldwide – Acknowledged for her entrepreneurial achievements and global promotion of Armenian cuisine.
Her influence extends far beyond awards, as she continues to inspire the next generation of chefs and artists.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
Today, Chef Zarmig remains actively engaged in multiple ventures:
- Culinary Education – She established culinary programs at Mesrobian High School and Sophia Hagopian College, nurturing young talent and preserving Armenian cuisine.
- Digital Influence – She connects with global audiences through her YouTube channel, where she shares easy and nutritious recipes, and through her mobile app, offering cooking tips and culinary insights.
- Culinary Ambassador – She represents Armenian cuisine at international food festivals, ensuring that her rich heritage continues to gain global appreciation.
Despite her countless achievements, Zarmig is constantly evolving, eager to explore new avenues in both the culinary and artistic worlds.
A Legacy of Passion and Creativity
Chef Zarmig Halladjian’s journey is one of perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From perfecting flavors in the kitchen to creating breathtaking works of art, she embodies the essence of creativity and resilience.
Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs, artists, and entrepreneurs alike, proving that passion, hard work, and a love for one’s roots can create a legacy that transcends generations.
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