Our Story
A taste of the Middle East: The story behind Zena's Mediterranean Cuisine~
Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine isn't your typical small town restaurant. It's a family legacy founded by passion, a desire for unique flavors, and the pursuit of a dream. Our journey began in the bustling heart of the Middle East, where Omar, the founder, wanted to honor his appreciation for the vibrant charm of Mediterranean cuisine. Omar wanted to bring the flavors of home to Collingswood NJ and was able to do this by opening up Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine.
In pursuit of a dream: Omar's American Journey~
In 2002, Omar embarked on a new chapter, immigrating to the United States. While his engineering background was impressive, a yearning for his roots simmered within him. He noticed a gap in the Area’s culinary scene – a lack of authentic Halal Mediterranean food that captured the true essence of the region. Fueled by his burning desire to share his passion, Omar opened a restaurant in New Jersey in 2010. That’s when Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine came to life.
A Family Legacy on Every Plate:
The name itself holds a special significance. Omar named the restaurant after his loving daughter, Zena. It was a tribute to family, the very foundation upon which Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine was built. Omar, though lacking formal culinary training, possessed an immense knowledge of Mediterranean flavors and a deep respect for tradition. He expertly recreated the dishes he grew up with, ensuring every dish resonated with authenticity. The acquired expertise that passed down through generations is what makes the magic work. We take delight in using the freshest ingredients, transforming them into dishes that reflect the warmth of our history.
A taste for everyone:
We don't just serve up delicious meals within our cozy Collingswood walls. Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine also offers a full catering menu, allowing you to bring the taste of the Mediterranean to your next event. If you're short on time, you can easily order your favorite foods online for takeaway or delivery.
A Culinary Bridge to Our Home:
Our journey hasn't been without its challenges. Adapting traditional recipes to local tastes while staying true to our roots requires a delicate balance. Over time, we've built a dedicated following of customers who value our food's honesty and depth of taste. We take great delight in the comments we get, knowing that each pleased client is a testimonial to the love and commitment placed into every dish.
Welcome to Our Table:
Zena's American Mediterranean Cuisine is more than just a restaurant; it's an extension of our family, a bridge connecting Collingswood to the unique taste of Mediterranean flavors. We invite you to experience a taste of home, a culinary adventure where tradition meets innovation. Come savor the rich history blended into every bite and let us share a taste of our heritage with you. Whether you dine in, order online, or host your event with our catering service, we look forward to welcoming you to our table.