Meet the Masters
Behind the Flavors
At Ottawa Kabab, every dish tells a story of dedication, tradition, and artistry. Behind the scenes, our talented chefs combine years of expertise with a love for Middle Eastern flavors, crafting meals that capture the heart of our culture. Their skills and vision are the foundation of everything we serve, from savory grilled meats to exquisite desserts.
Our chefs bring decades of experience and an unrelenting commitment to authenticity. They have transformed Ottawa Kabab into a destination where Middle Eastern culinary traditions come alive with every bite. Below, learn more about the stories, skills, and passions that drive them to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Our Culinary Chef
Mamoun Srdah
Hailing from Syria, Mamoun Srdah brings years of expertise and a deep-rooted love for Middle Eastern flavors to Ottawa Kabab. His culinary journey began in traditional Syrian kitchens, where he mastered the art of blending aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. Over the years, his skills evolved, turning a lifelong passion into a profession dedicated to preserving and sharing authentic Syrian cuisine.
Mamoun’s vision for Ottawa Kabab started in 2021 when he took over the restaurant and transformed it into a culinary destination. His unique approach to Middle Eastern cooking combines tradition with innovation, creating dishes that are as heartwarming as they are delicious. Every plate served under his guidance tells a story of heritage, community, and the joy of sharing a meal.
Mixed Grill Platter
A showcase of Mamown Srdah’s charcoal grill mastery, featuring smoky kebabs, tender lamb chops, and juicy chicken skewers.
Lamb Shanks
Slow-cooked to tender perfection, infused with aromatic spices, creating a flavorful dish that melts in your mouth.
Cold Appetizers
Mamown’s expertise extends to iconic Middle Eastern appetizers like creamy hummus, and fresh, zesty tabbouleh.
Mandi Rice with Lamb
Fragrant rice meets melt-in-your-mouth lamb in this traditional Middle Eastern favorite, perfected by Mamown’s touch.
Our Culinary Chef
Skills & Experince
Grill
Mamown Srdah’s talent shines brightest at the charcoal grill, where he crafts tender and flavorful meats that are the heart of Ottawa Kabab’s menu. His expertise lies in using time-honored grilling techniques to create dishes like kebabs, lamb shanks, and chicken skewers that are perfectly charred and infused with smoky goodness.
Cook
Beyond grilling, Mamown’s understanding of Middle Eastern cuisine enables him to create a harmonious balance of flavors in every dish. From marinated meats to aromatic rice dishes, his creations embody the richness of his Syrian roots while incorporating Lebanese and Iraqi influences, making each meal a celebration of diverse Middle Eastern traditions.
Our Pastry Chef
Huthaifa Al Aridi
With 25 years of experience, Huthaifa Al Aridi is a true artisan in the world of Middle Eastern pastries and bread. His journey began in Syria, where he honed his skills in creating traditional sweets that have been cherished for generations. His dedication to his craft brought him to Ottawa Kabab, where he now shares his expertise with customers who crave authentic flavors.
Huthaifa’s passion lies in preserving the authenticity of Middle Eastern desserts while adding his unique touch. His meticulous attention to detail and use of high-quality ingredients ensure that every sweet he creates, from kunafeh to baklava, delivers a taste of home with every bite.
Fresh Bread
Soft, warm, and aromatic, this bread is a staple of every meal, baked fresh daily by Huthaifa.
Fatayer
Warm, golden, and filled with creamy cheese, these pies reflect Huthaifa’s expertise in traditional baking.
Turkish Baklava
Flaky layers filled with pistachios and syrup—Huthaifa’s baklava is a sweet symphony of texture and flavor.
Kunafeh Nabulsieh
Crispy pastry and melted cheese come together in this iconic dessert, a masterpiece of Huthaifa’s baking artistry.
Our Pastry Chef
Skills & Experince
Baking
Huthaifa Al Aridi’s freshly baked bread is the heart of many Middle Eastern meals. Soft, warm, and perfectly textured, it pairs effortlessly with any dish. His expertise also shines in savory pastries like cheese fatayer and meat sambousek, each prepared with a golden crust and flavorful fillings that capture the essence of Middle Eastern baking traditions.
Desserts
Huthaifa’s kunafa is a masterpiece, blending crispy pastry with gooey cheese for a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying. His baklava, with its delicate layers and nutty sweetness, is another highlight, while his warbat bil ashta offers a creamy and luxurious treat that leaves a lasting impression.
Team Effort
Ottawa Kabab’s success is a testament to the collaboration and dedication of its chefs, management, and team. Mamown Srdah and Huthaifa Al Aridi work hand in hand to deliver a dining experience that celebrates Middle Eastern culture. Their shared commitment to quality, authenticity, and hospitality is the cornerstone of what makes Ottawa Kabab a beloved destination.
From the kitchen to the café, every member of the Ottawa Kabab team contributes to creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy the richness of Middle Eastern cuisine. Together, they have built a community space that feels like home—one dish, one dessert, and one smile at a time.