Paul Iglesias and Sophia Akbar opened Jaji, a contemporary Afghan restaurant in Oakland, focusing on modern interpretations of Afghan dishes. Influenced by Akbar's family heritage and culinary traditions, they collaborated closely with her parents and grandparents to craft a menu that honors Afghan cuisine while incorporating Californian ingredients. The restaurant's approach highlights an evolving perspective on Afghan food, aiming to provide comfort and sustenance through innovative dishes, showcasing the rich cultural narrative of the Akbar family in a contemporary setting.
"It's very detail-oriented, and it's super important because it tells the story of Sophia and her family, being an Afghan American, and her parents being first-generation Afghans that have lived 40 years in California."
"We use the word contemporary because for us it means 'in the moment.'"
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