From Spice to Story - The Flavors That Bring Us Together

A JORDANIAN BEGINNING

Growing up in Jordan, Murad developed an appreciation for the spices and flavors of Middle Eastern cooking. When he moved to the United States, he was fascinated by the diversity of American food culture and the culinary traditions that have found a home here. He loves exploring how familiar ingredients take on different roles across cuisines—and how a small change in technique or seasoning can transform a dish.

A MEETING OF TRADITIONS

Alongside his wife and business partner Allison, whose Italian heritage adds another culinary perspective, Murad has built Pangea Global Kitchen around a love of discovery. Their kitchen celebrates the traditions behind food while staying curious about the possibilities of bringing flavors together.

A SPECIAL COLLABORATION

Murad especially enjoys collaborating with Jamie, Pangea’s prep chef, who brings her Lebanese heritage to the kitchen. Jordan and Lebanon share many beloved ingredients, including the bright, tangy sumac that gives dishes like musakhan their distinctive flavor. Yet family traditions and preparation methods can differ. Together, Murad and Jamie compare memories, exchange ideas, and discover how those subtle differences can inspire something new.

MORE THAN JUST FOOD

At Pangea, food is a way to connect people, cultures, and stories. The next time you enjoy a dish from our kitchen, you may find a hint of Jordan, a touch of Lebanon or Italy, or inspiration from somewhere unexpected. Great food does more than bring ingredients together. It brings people together, too.