Jaji, a contemporary Afghan restaurant in the Bay Area, is being hailed as the first of its kind in the region. This exciting new venture comes from husband-and-wife restaurateurs, Sophia Akbar and Paul Iglesias, who are also behind Parche, the popular Colombian restaurant in Oakland.
A Name with Deep Cultural Roots
The name “Jaji” is a tribute to Akbar’s heritage, drawing from both her grandfather’s surname and her Pashtun tribal roots. The restaurant aims to be more than just a dining destination. It serves as a cultural tribute to Afghan heritage, blending traditional Afghan recipes with the evolving influences of the Afghan diaspora.
Honoring Afghan-American Resilience and History
Jaji isn’t just a place to eat—it is a cultural hub. The restaurant seeks to highlight the resilience of Afghan-Americans, especially those who fled conflict between the 1970s and early 2000s. Jaji places a strong focus on telling the stories of modern Afghan women, sharing their experiences through both food and storytelling.
“We created Jaji to expand perspectives on Afghan culture and identity,” explains co-owner Sophia Akbar. “Hospitality is central to Afghan tradition, but modern Afghan dining experiences are rare in the U.S. We aim to offer a new way of looking at what it means to be Afghan-American today, bridging past and present while celebrating our rich heritage.”
A Culinary Journey into Modern Afghan Cuisine
Jaji is charting new territory by offering an innovative food and beverage program that fosters conversation, connection, and celebration of Afghan-American culture. The restaurant’s menu is designed to balance authenticity with modern dining, creating a space that brings people together to learn and appreciate the depth of Afghan heritage.
A Family Tradition Transformed for Modern Times
In crafting Jaji’s menu, Paul Iglesias worked closely with Sophia Akbar’s mother, Maria Jaji, and grandmother, Asia Jaji, to carefully refine and translate family recipes. Their goal was to preserve the authenticity of Afghan home cooking while adapting it to a contemporary restaurant setting. The result is a menu that honors the richness of Afghan culinary traditions in a fresh and innovative way.
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