Dubai : Soul Kitchen in Business Bay marked its second anniversary on Tuesday, September 23, with a cocktail reception introducing guests to the flavors and story of “LéLa Cuisine”—a culinary concept that blends Lebanese and Latin American traditions.
The event welcomed media, influencers, customers, and friends, hosted by Tala Mortada (Partner & Creative Director), Wassim Bou Malham (Partner & Music Producer), and Executive Chef Margarita Vaamonde. Together, they guided guests through an evening of food, music, and conversation.
A Culinary Journey with a Passport in Hand: On arrival, guests received a passport before entering the Green Room, which had been transformed into a lively space inspired by Latin American countries. Each station reflected a different country and paired its identity with Lebanese flavors: guests enjoyed Hummus Chimichurri from Argentina, Ceviche Tabbouleh from Peru, Kebbeh and stuffed Cheese bread from Brazil, Soul Kitchen’s signature Guacamole from Mexico, and Kafta Arepas with Cheese Croquettes from Venezuela.
Throughout the evening, Pass-around bites—including salmon tacos and grilled chicken brochettes—added to the experience, highlighting Soul Kitchen’s playful approach to food. The drinks featured signature cocktails prepared for the occasion: Arak Bellini, Peachy Margarita with sumac topping, Infused Maté, and Mastikha Basil—each reflecting the same spirit of cultural blending.
Since opening in September 2023, Soul Kitchen has become a place where food, music, and people come together. The anniversary was not only a celebration of two years, but also an opportunity to share the vision behind LéLa Cuisine with a wider community. “Welcoming everyone and walking them through the stations was our way of showing what LéLa Cuisine means to us,” said Tala Mortada Partner & Creative Director at Factory People “It’s about building connections between cultures through food.”
Executive Chef Margarita Vaamonde added: “Designing these dishes is about finding simple links between Lebanese and Latin American kitchens, and creating something that feels both familiar and new.”
“This anniversary reminded us of the journey so far,” said Wassim Bou Malham Partner & Music Producer at Factory People “It also gave us the chance to look forward. We’re excited about the future and about continuing to share our ideas with the community here.” With its second anniversary behind it, Soul Kitchen now enters a new chapter—continuing to grow LéLa Cuisine and to create experiences that connect people through food and culture.
