Chef Maisam Abdulkhalak and Chef Zarmik Halajian collaborated at Zulal Wellness Resort for a unique dining experience that focused on Armenian cuisine and Mediterranean influences. This event took place at the Acacia restaurant on October 29, 2026, featuring an exceptional eight-course menu that combined Armenian culinary traditions with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Manifestation of Cultural Heritage and Conscious Nutrition
This special experience, inspired by Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM), introduced Chef Maisam Abdulkhalak, the chef and culinary director of Zulal Resort, and Chef Zarmik Halajian, recognized as a reputable professional in the culinary world. Chef Zarmik, with his Armenian-Lebanese heritage, has extensive international experience and serves as the head of the culinary teams for Bocuse d'Or and the World Pastry Cup in Qatar.
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A Journey into the World of Flavors
This collaboration resulted in the creation of a special eight-course menu that celebrated the richness of Armenian cuisine while incorporating Mediterranean influences and principles of conscious nutrition. This experience bridged various culinary perspectives, showcasing the international expertise of Chef Zarmik and the culinary philosophy of Chef Maisam. Zulal, as a wellness resort, believes that food is an essential part of the journey towards better health, and every ingredient, preparation, and flavor contributes to a more conscious relationship with nutrition.
Chef Zarmik Halajian stated: “The Armenian-Lebanese culinary heritage carries stories and traditions that encompass generations. Collaborating with Zulal allowed me to combine these traditions with Mediterranean influences in a new and meaningful way. This unique experience gave us the opportunity to demonstrate how culinary heritage and conscious nutrition can complement each other and create an experience that celebrates both culture and flavor.”
Chef Maisam Abdulkhalak also added: “At Zulal, our culinary philosophy is based on the premise that nutrition should be both purposeful and enjoyable. It was an incredible opportunity to explore the depth of Armenian culinary heritage and Mediterranean flavors from the perspective of TAIM. Each course was carefully designed to blend ingredients, traditions, and techniques, demonstrating how conscious nutrition can be an inspiring culinary experience.”
Mr. Ammar Samad, the regional general manager of Zulal Wellness Resort, also commented: “At Zulal, we believe that food is more than just nutrition; it is an expression of culture, heritage, and the connection between people. This collaboration reflects our commitment to providing meaningful culinary experiences to our guests, where the richness of diverse traditions meets our holistic approach to wellness. Through the principles of TAIM, we continue to celebrate the role of conscious nutrition in supporting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.”
The evening at the Acacia restaurant provided guests with the opportunity to discover the cultural stories behind each course and experience how traditional culinary knowledge can be interpreted through contemporary gastronomy and the principles of TAIM. Collaborations like this encourage Zulal to continue exploring the relationship between food, culture, and holistic health, reinforcing its philosophy that nourishing the body can be one of life's greatest pleasures.
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