What aram means?
The name “aram” draws from the ancient Syrian land and surrounding territories, For Imad, the name embodies history, foundations, hope and connection. Opening this restaurant is a statement of positivity as Syria slowly re-emerges after years of hardship.
Aram is the latest culinary venture by Imad Alarnab, known for Imad’s Syrian Kitchen
Inspired by the Eastern Mediterranean—particularly Syria, as well as Turkey, Cyprus, and Jordan—aram will serve breakfast and lunch dishes like pastries, salads, wraps, zaatar croissants, halva brownies, roasted aubergine salad, curry cauliflower, labneh with poached eggs, and granola with date banoffee!
Who is Imad?
Imad Alarnab is a Syrian chef, entrepreneur and refugee who ran three successful restaurants, several juice bars and cafes in Damascus.
In the war, Imad's businesses were destroyed and he was forced to flee the country in search of safety. Making his way from Lebanon through Europe, Imad shared his skills cooking for other refugees, up to 400 at a time.
Imad arrived in London in 2015 and eventually his family was able to join him. Putting aside his passion for food, Imad worked a number of jobs, including as a car salesman in his early days in London. With the help of some good friends, Imad burst onto the London restaurant scene four years ago with a series of charity events which became hugely popular. Supper clubs sold out within hours and hungry workers waited patiently in long queues for take-away lunches at pop-ups.
Imad’s Syrian Kitchen opened in Kingly Court in Soho, London in early 2020. After three and half years in our old home we moved into a new home in the summer of 2023. Still in Kingly Court the new space gave Imad chance to show his full vision.
It’s all about the community.
Aram is deeply rooted in community and generosity—Emphasising culture and collaboration, Imad plans to utilise the space for charity events, elevate emerging chefs (especially refugees), and showcase Middle Eastern art, music, and cuisine