About the Owner...
Magdalene discovered her culinary talent at a young age while working beside her mother, aunts and grandmother in Syria. Preparing for a weekly family gathering was a tradition among these Syrian/Lebanese women, and they inspired the young Magdalene to watch and learn. She realized that ingredients don't make a dish special; there must be love and a passion for cooking to bring a dish to perfection. Magdalene quickly became the family's favorite cook, and was eager to take her talent to the next level.
Upon her arrival in Oregon, Magdalene was eager to show off her abilities. Drawing inspiration from the complexities of Lebanese and Syrian foods, she deftly began blending the distinctive flavors of home with the more familiar American ingredients. Her first step into the professional culinary world was in 2006 when she opened a food and catering kiosk at the Portland Saturday Market. Her success skyrocketed, and soon private catering was incorporated into the business. Frequent and persistent inquires from her loyal customers urged her to ponder the idea of a sit-down, family style eatery. When her aunt (the owner of Karam Restaurant) decided to retire and move to Lebanon, Majdolin saw opportunity knocking at her door and took over the business. Before she could catch her breath, news crews and critics lined the walls raving about the quality, fresh ingredients and the unique blended precision of spices on the updated menu.
thank you and enjoy,
Magdalene & Karam Restaurant
Karam translated means "generous", a spirit and tradition which has been passed down in our family from generation to generation.