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Portrait of Sami Tamimi

Sami Tamimi

Celebrated Palestinian culinary ambassador

Born
1968
Born in
Jerusalem, Palestine
Read Sami’s story2 videosAsk about Sami

Why Sami is here

Renowned for his contributions to Palestinian cuisine and culture through his critically acclaimed cookbooks and restaurants.

Their story

Sami Tamimi was born in Jerusalem in 1968 and grew up in the Old City, where he learned to cook in his family's kitchen. He moved to London in 1997 and co-founded the Ottolenghi delis and restaurants.

He co-wrote the bestselling cookbooks Ottolenghi and Jerusalem, then told the story of Palestinian food in his own name with Falastin (2020) and his first solo book, Boustany (2025), bringing Palestinian dishes to kitchens all over the world.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Sami’s path.

  1. 1980s

    Started Career at Mount Zion Hotel

    Began working in the kitchen at a young age, where his interest in cooking flourished.

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  2. 1997

    Moved to London

    Transitioned to London to further his culinary career, where he met Yotam Ottolenghi and began a pivotal partnership.

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  3. 2002

    Co-Founded Ottolenghi Delis

    Along with Yotam Ottolenghi and Noam Bar, opened the first Ottolenghi deli in Notting Hill, which has since expanded to several locations.

  4. 2012

    Jerusalem: A Cookbook

    Co-authored Jerusalem: A Cookbook with Yotam Ottolenghi.

  5. 2020

    Published "Falastin"

    Co-authored Falastin with Tara Wigley, celebrating Palestinian food and stories.

  6. 2025

    Boustany

    Published his solo cookbook celebrating Palestinian vegetarian cuisine.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Promotion of Palestinian Cuisine

    Through his cookbooks and restaurants, Tamimi has introduced Palestinian culinary traditions to a global audience, showcasing the richness and diversity of Palestinian food.

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  2. Culinary Storytelling

    His work in "Falastin" goes beyond recipes to tell the stories of Palestinian people and their resilience, helping to humanize and bring attention to Palestinian culture and life under occupation.

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  3. Educational Outreach

    Tamimi's cookbooks and public engagements have educated countless people about Palestinian cuisine and heritage, fostering greater understanding and appreciation for Palestinian culture.

  4. Supporting Palestinian Identity

    By emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of Palestinian dishes, Tamimi has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Palestinian identity globally.

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  5. Mentorship and Empowerment

    Through his work in the culinary industry, Tamimi has mentored numerous young chefs, many of whom are Palestinians, helping them to develop their skills and careers.

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Watch & listen

Sami in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Culinary Storytelling↗

  • 02Supporting Palestinian Identity↗

Further reading

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