After fleeing the war in Syria, Nerses Guzukuchikyan and his mother, Hasmik, found a new home in Yerevan, where they established a warm, inviting space that brings the vibrant flavors of Aleppo to Armenia’s capital. Their restaurant, Yasmine—named after Hasmik herself—began as a humble fast-food kiosk. Since 2017, it has blossomed into a full-scale restaurant at 26 Parpetsi Street, right in the heart of Yerevan.
Yasmine is known for its iconic Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, falafel, tikka kebab, fattoush, and ghawerma. But it’s more than just food; it’s a taste of heritage, a connection to home. “It’s the Armenian cuisine of the Middle East, infused with Armenian soul and spirit,” says Nerses. Inspired by his mother’s extensive collection of recipes, he set out to bring her culinary legacy to life and share it with the community.
In 2020, with support from FAR’s Small Business Assistance (SBA) Program, Yasmine’s menu expanded to include new offerings, like the famous lahmajun, made possible by the addition of a large oven, mixers, and other essential kitchen tools. “That was a real turning point for us,” Nerses explains. “To stand out in the market, you need to be competitive. Thanks to FAR, we were able to grow and specialize.”
Today, Yasmine’s menu boasts over 250 appetizers alone, with each dish crafted to create an atmosphere that feels like home. “Our customers are our guests because we’re a family here. The warmth, the sense of being cared for—maybe that’s the real secret to our success. Their feedback is invaluable; it helps us grow and improve.”
Through donating to FAR today, you will ensure that more refugees from Middle East and Artsakh can turn their desperation into hope!
The Small Business Assistance (SBA) program, financed and initiated by the Atesian Family Foundation, is a dynamic initiative dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners. SBA equips individuals with the necessary tools to launch and expand their entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities, particularly among conflict-affected, displaced, and rural populations in Armenia.
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