Ahlan and welcome! My name is Safana Zahili. I’m a Damascus-born foodie based in Toronto, Canada.
I’m so happy that you have joined me here to enjoy and learn traditional Levantine cuisine. My passion for cooking stems from a lifelong love affair with all things Syria. Growing up, I spent my summers in Syria, wandering the village alleys and playing in the sand among the Qalamoun Mountains. By the time I was a teenager, I preferred spending my time in the bustling souqs and lively restaurants in Damascus. Each year, as my summers wound to a close, and I bade farewell to my grandparents and cousins to return to Toronto, I left a piece of my heart behind.
Back in Toronto, I studied Political Science and Journalism at York University and worked in corporate communications for several years. I also taught high school English in Dubai for a few years before returning to Toronto to pursue my true passion: Middle Eastern cooking. One of my goals in launching this blog is to teach Westerners about the wealth of spices, flavours and stories that go into Syrian cooking. I also hope to pass on my knowledge to the new generation of Syrians growing up in the West.
I currently spend my time cooking, blogging, raising two kids as a single mama and volunteering for a charity that serves Syrian newcomers.
I hope you’ll enjoy your time here as you discover delicious, authentic Syrian food from every region in the country. I’m so happy to connect with you all.
Tsharafit bi marafitkon.