Vartivar Jarkezian is a French-Armenian chef whose cuisine reflects a background rich in experiences and cultural diversity. Born in Lebanon, he grew up in Saudi Arabia before settling in Paris in 2015. His love for cooking began in childhood, deeply influenced by the traditional dishes prepared by his mother, Flora. It was she who inspired his famous Flora’s cauliflowera tribute filled with love and family memories. This signature dish symbolizes not only his oriental roots, but also his desire to fuse tradition and modernity in his creations
The journey of a determined leader
Jarkezian did not follow a traditional path. After arriving in Paris, he perfected his know-how in renowned establishments, notably alongside Damien Boudier at the Bissac restaurant and later at Assaf Granit at Shabour, where he contributed to obtaining a Michelin star. It was this experience at Shabour which propelled him into the world of exceptional chefs. When he finally took over the restaurant Campelli in 2023he was able to express himself fully through his dishes, infusing his own story and emotions into each plate.
Campelli: cooking as a testimony of his journey
At the house of Campellieach dish is a real declaration of love to his origins and childhood memories. The chef makes a point of revisiting the flavors of his past, whether through emblematic dishes such as Butternut squash velouté with lobster bisqueor his Flora’s cauliflowerinfused with tahini And sumacrecalling the family meals shared during his childhood in Lebanon.
Vartivar doesn’t just cook, he puts his soul into every creation. Each of his dishes tells a story, whether it is that of Beirut’s bustling markets or of moments spent with family. His approach is marked by a deep respect for ingredients and a perfect mastery of French techniques, which he fuses with the spices and flavors of the Orient. This passionate approach is reflected in Campelli’s rapid success, which has been awarded 2 Gault & Millau hats
A quest for authenticity and sharing
What distinguishes Vartivar Jarkezian of other leaders, it is his deep emotional engagement in the kitchen. For him, it’s not just about preparing food, but sharing intimate and personal moments with his guests. “Seeing people enjoy what I cook is my greatest reward,” he says. This desire to share your experience through his culinary creations explains why each dish at Campelli is an invitation to travel, mixing love and the passion with a touch of nostalgia.
Vartivar Jarkezian, in search of the Michelin star
After helping to secure a Michelin star for the restaurant ShabourVartivar aspires to get your own star at Campelli. For him, this star would be the consecration of his hard work and the limitless investment he places in each dish.
For an authentic and emotional culinary experience, Campelli is a must-see place in the Parisian gastronomic landscape. Discover more about Vartivar Jarkezian and his world on his Instagram account and through the Paris Select website.
Written by Zac, the September 19, 2024
