Chef Karim Haïdar

Chef Karim Haïdar, caterer, food consultant, author and TV personality, is also credited with being the founder and president of the Academy of Arab Cuisine in Paris, aimed at promoting Arab cuisine across the world. Together with his partner, Selloua Bouaziz, Haidar opened a café bar restaurant at the end of last year called Askini. Having quickly become known as an authentic Parisian bistro offering Mediterranean-Middle Eastern food, the establishment also serves mezzé and tapas.

Explaining the rationale behind the concept, Haidar said, “The setup is somewhat unusual, as we placed the drinks selection in the center and adapted our food to an informal dining arrangement, with an open kitchen serving guests, starting from 9am.” He added that the layout of the outlet lends itself to an atmosphere of conviviality in what is already a highly popular neighborhood, located in Paris’s 10th district. “With very suitable prices, our establishment is open to one and all,” Haïdar added. “However, at the other end of the spectrum, a full dining experience is provided, coupled with a great selection of original cocktails and an extensive wine assortment.” The chef also said that in 2019, he planned to publish a book dedicated to the many ways that kibbeh can be prepared. “I have been meaning to do this for quite some time, in terms of what is near and dear to my heart, and to express my affinity with this kind of dish,” he commented.

askiniparis.com