By Leigh O’Connor.
With a journey that spans continents and culinary cultures, Chef Ido Zarmi brings a wealth of experience and innovation to the tables at Shaffa restaurant in Surry Hills.
Hailing from the vibrant culinary landscape of Tel Aviv in Israel, Ido’s career began humbly in the kitchens of coffee shops and eateries which sparked his passion for cooking and later propelled him into prestigious kitchens around the world.
He now finds himself on the pans at Shaffa where a feast for the senses awaits at the end of a narrow laneway, tucked between two heritage-listed sandstone buildings on Albion Street. This inviting Middle Eastern restaurant and bar is inspired by the fragrant, lively markets of Tel Aviv projecting a moody vibe of exposed brick, velvet banquettes and an open kitchen offering glimpses of Ido in action.
"I started working in kitchens at the age of 13, initially just to make a living,” he tells AGFG. "It wasn’t until I turned 23 that I realised my true passion for cooking. Over the years, I discovered I had a natural talent for it and genuinely loved the creative and dynamic environment of the kitchen. That’s when I decided to pursue it as a career.”
Ido graduated on the Dean’s List from the Culinary Institute of America and worked at several top-flight New York restaurants, before becoming Sous Chef at Restaurants Associates’ US Open, which opened the corporate culinary world to him and completed a well-balanced career development path, preparing Ido for his next role.
"Azafran Restaurant in New York was my first lead duty as Executive Chef, during which time the restaurant was awarded one star by the New York Times.”
Ido describes his cooking style as eclectic Mediterranean, plant-forward and rooted in the principles of slow food – it’s casual, straightforward and clean, emphasising fresh ingredients and bold flavours.
"These days, I’m deeply inspired by Eastern Mediterranean flavour profiles, including the vibrant tastes of olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, fish and almonds.”
Ido shares his recipe for Mediterranean ceviche bites with AGFG home cooks:
"This dish is the ultimate bite that captures the essence of where I have the best memories from. It embodies the flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean, making it a perfect representation of my culinary roots.”
Profoundly influenced by the grandmothers and market vendors of the Mediterranean, Ido says their rich cultures and the historical significance of their food practices have shaped his culinary journey
.
"I love the privilege of touching people’s souls and creating lasting memories through food, which has the unique power to evoke memories and create new ones. Being a part of that process is incredibly fulfilling – food brings people together.”
Ido says dining at Shaffa, guests can expect deeply flavourful dishes and friendly, warm service, all in a beautifully comfortable venue.
"What makes the experience special is our genuine passion. We pour our hearts into every dish and strive to offer an experience that we ourselves would love as guests. With live-action seats to the kitchen, our transparency and authenticity are evident.”
