Flavors from Afar, an events and catering service led and spirited by immigrants, promotes and celebrates the culinary traditions, cultures, and stories of refugees and asylum seekers in Southern California. Proceeds support family and youth programs hosted by The Tiyya Foundation.

At our core, we believe that sharing a meal is a delicious opportunity for cultural exchange. Food unites people at the table - nourishing bodies, feeding minds, and fostering respect across diverse cultures. At Flavors from Afar, each meal is inspired by the chefs’ rich histories, cultural creativity, and several thousand-mile journey as a refugee. Every gathering is an intimate space for genuine cultural exchanges and authentic connections between OC / Angelenos and our newcomers from around the world.

Established in 2018, Flavors from Afar is a social enterprise that employs former refugee chefs in Los Angeles and Orange County.  Originally a catering service, Meymuna Hussein-Cattan and Christian Davis paired up in 2020 to spearhead the opening of Flavor’s first brick and mortar restaurant in Little Ethiopia with the intention of creating a destination spot within the city.  Combining their efforts from the nonprofit sector and the corporate lens,  Meymuna and Christian are a great pair that work creatively together while always prioritizing hospitality, people, and culture. With the intent of offering experiential dining,  they did not foresee their opening date to take place during Covid-19’s stay at home orders.  By staying resilient and creative, both founders have been featured by the UNHCR, Food52, Postmates, LA Magazine, Oxfam America, CBS Podcast, KIIS FM Radio, Eater LA, and more.