Meet our chefs

Refugee Chefs Plateful Cafe

Sara from Iran

My name is Sara, an Iranian who has been living in England for the past two years. Back in Iran, I pursued a degree in computer engineering and spent a decade as a supervisor in preventive maintenance planning for the petrochemical industry. Additionally, I have worked in the childcare field for some time. Since my early years, I have had a passion for cooking and baking, and during summers, I used to bake delicious cakes and meals alongside my mother. I am eager to showcase Iranian cuisine as a part of our cultural in the cafe setting. Moreover, I am excited to embrace the opportunity to learn and prepare dishes from various other countries. Collaborating within a team has always brought me joy, and I am hopeful that we will create a wonderful cafe teamwork environment, enabling our cherished customers to truly relish their time at the cafe, as our reputation thrives on their satisfaction.

Chef Saleh

Saleh from Yemen

I used to work as a chef in Yemen. Cooking has always been more than just a job – it’s my passion. Since I was young, I’ve loved experimenting in the kitchen, creating new recipes and special dishes. My dream has always been to improve my skills and become a professional chef.

Fatan Syrian chefs

Faten from Syria

This is Faten cooking her favourite dish, which is fatoush

Yasmin refugee chefs

Yasmin from Syria

I am from syria. I live in London, Lewisham. My favourite dish is stuffed vine leaves.

Nahed chef at Plateful Cafe

Nahed from Syria

I am Nahed, I come from Syria and I live in Bromley. My favourite dishes are Rice with peas and cashew nuts Felafel

Yasmin refugee chef

Hadis from Iran

I am Hadis, I am Iranian and I came to England 2 years ago. I worked as a physiotherapist and skin therapist in Iran. I like to make Iranian foods , desserts and sweets in the cafe, I hope I can create a happy time for customers and they enjoy the taste of foods.

Sana chef

Sana from Syria

My name is Sana. I am from Syria and I now live in Southwark. I like to cook rice with peas.

Manar chef at Plateful Cafe

Manar from Syria

My name is Manar Kapoor. I am from Syria. I worked in a bakery in Jordan and I live in the UK now.

Asmahan chef

Asmahan from Syria

I live in Lewisham and love baking - especially bread.

Jafar Adam

Jafar Adam from Sudan

My name is Jafar Adam, and I am originally from Sudan. I previously worked as a sales assistant in a mobile phone shop. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing war in my country since 2023, I have not been able to continue my education. Schools have been closed, and we have never truly felt safe. My family and I had to leave our home and move between cities that were considered safer at the time, but sadly, many of those cities were eventually attacked as well. I came to the UK in search of a peaceful life and a better future. I am currently attending English classes and planning to study IT, as I have a strong interest in the field. I joined Plateful Café and immediately felt welcomed. Despite the language barrier, I felt embraced by the warm and supportive atmosphere. With the help of Iolanda and the wonderful team at Plateful Café, I was able to integrate and contribute wholeheartedly. In the future, I hope to remain connected with Plateful Café and other charitable organisations, so I can give back to the community and support new arrivals—just as Plateful Café supported me.

Let the plateful cafe cater your event

The plateful cafe can cater for you. We work at any scale, from an intimate home cooking experience to corporate events and parties. Just get in touch for a personalised quote.