We recently connected with Herand Tahmasian and have shared our conversation below.

Herand, appreciate you joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

Taking risks has always been central to who I am. One of the biggest was moving from London to Los Angeles before the pandemic and working on the buildout of a restaurant during the 2020 pandemic. Leaving behind the familiarity of home and venturing into a new country amid global uncertainty was daunting, especially as the restaurant industry was struggling.

Renting a commercial space, managing the buildout, and navigating supply chain delays and health regulations were significant challenges. Many doubted the decision, but I believed in my vision. When the restaurant opened in 2021, it became a much-needed space for connection and comfort, proving that even in adversity, risks can lead to success!

In 2023, I took another leap by selling the Los Angeles restaurant and relocating to Houston to be closer to my family. Starting over in a new city and market was another test of resilience, but it reinforced my belief in taking bold steps. Today, I have a new restaurant in Houston, I’m proud of how these risks have shaped me and fueled my drive to keep pushing boundaries.

Herand, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am the chef and owner of Herand’s Kitchen, a Persian-Mediterranean restaurant where every dish tells a story. Through my cooking, I aim to preserve and celebrate the flavors and traditions of my Armenian heritage while weaving in the rich cultural influences of my life. From the Persian spices of my birthplace in Iran to the Armenian traditions of my family, Herand’s Kitchen is a reflection of my personal journey.

I began my culinary journey driven by a passion for hospitality and a love for sharing food that holds deep meaning. Opening my first restaurant was a leap of faith, especially during the challenges of the pandemic, but it was also an opportunity to bring people together and offer a taste of resilience and connection.

What sets Herand’s Kitchen apart is the deeply personal nature of what we offer. Every dish on the menu is crafted with care, drawing from my family’s history and the diverse cultures that have shaped my life. For example, our koubideh isn’t just a kabob; it’s a tribute to the family meals that brought us together, filled with love and tradition. Our souvlaki wrap honors the Greek heritage of my wife, symbolizing the beautiful blend of our cultures.

Resilience is at the heart of my work. Like my Armenian heritage, which has endured and thrived despite countless challenges, I’ve embraced every obstacle as an opportunity to grow. Whether it was opening a restaurant during the pandemic or starting fresh in Houston to be closer to my family, I’ve carried forward a commitment to perseverance, community, and excellence.

At Herand’s Kitchen, we provide more than just food—we offer an experience rooted in heritage, connection, and creativity. I want every guest who walks through our doors to feel the warmth of hospitality and to taste the stories behind every dish. It’s about creating moments that bring people together, honoring traditions while embracing the possibilities of the future.

I’m proud of the journey that brought me here and the community that has embraced Herand’s Kitchen. My goal is to continue sharing the flavors and stories that have shaped me, inspiring others to find joy and connection through food.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One story that captures my resilience is the journey of opening my first restaurant, Herand’s Kitchen, during the 2020 pandemic. At the time, I had just moved from London to Los Angeles, driven by a vision to create a space where I could share the flavors and traditions of my heritage. However, what started as an exciting adventure quickly became one of the biggest challenges of my life.

The pandemic disrupted every aspect of the restaurant industry, and my project was no exception. The buildout process faced constant delays due to supply chain issues, while health and safety regulations seemed to change weekly. Financial uncertainty loomed large, and I was entering an industry where many seasoned professionals were being forced to shut down. Friends and advisors questioned whether it was the right time to pursue such a risky venture.

But I refused to give up. Drawing from my Armenian roots and the resilience that defines my culture, I pushed forward with unwavering determination. I adjusted plans, found creative solutions to problems, and leaned on the support of those who believed in my vision. I reminded myself that Armenians have always found ways to endure and thrive, even in the face of adversity.

When Herand’s Kitchen finally opened its doors in 2021, it was more than just a restaurant—it was a testament to perseverance and the power of community. Guests responded with overwhelming support, finding comfort and connection in the dishes I served. It became a place where people could celebrate, share stories, and find a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.

This experience taught me that resilience is not just about surviving challenges but about transforming them into opportunities for growth. The lessons I learned during that time continue to guide me as I embark on new ventures, like starting a restaurant in Houston. Every setback is a chance to adapt, and every success is a reminder of the strength that comes from persistence and belief in your vision.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

The journey to funding my first restaurant, Herand’s Kitchen, is one of hard work, perseverance, and a relentless focus on my dream. For years, I worked a variety of jobs to save the capital needed to turn my vision into reality. From selling cars to cooking in restaurants, each role taught me valuable lessons while bringing me closer to my goal.

Selling cars sharpened my skills in understanding people and building connections, while my time in restaurant kitchens deepened my love for food and my understanding of what it takes to run a successful culinary business. Every paycheck I earned, I carefully saved, knowing that every dollar brought me one step closer to opening a place of my own.

When the opportunity finally came to launch Herand’s Kitchen, I knew exactly what I wanted to create: a menu that reflected my culinary roots and celebrated the rich cultural tapestry of my life. While I didn’t have investors or large sums of money to fall back on, I had the determination and resourcefulness to make my dream a reality. I carefully budgeted every aspect of the restaurant, making strategic decisions to maximize my resources without compromising on quality.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.herandskitchen.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herandskitchen/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Herands-Kitchen/100090558559526/
• Yelp: https://www.facebook.com/people/Herands-Kitchen/100090558559526/

Image Credits

Herand Tahmasian