Tigran Shahverdyan

It always starts with a simple request. This one came on June 27th from Tigran Shahverdyan,  a scientist/entrepreneur from Moscow, Russia, who is currently participating in the International Space University’s (ISU) Space Studies Program at Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL. He’s active in the Armenian community in Moscow, and is interested in meeting Armenians in the Melbourne area even though he’ll only be here through August 4.   

Tigran wrote:
“A lot of cultures and nations are represented by participants (in ISU). Every culture must make a cultural night presentation and prepare some dishes from national cuisine. I’m the only participant in Armenian team and Armenian cultural night is this Friday (June 29^th). Not much time left. I would be very thankful if you could recommend any store with Armenian products – or at least a place where I can find Armenian lavash. I’m thinking about making barbecue.”


This didn’t leave me a lot of time, so I got right down to work. Since I live about 3 hours from Melbourne, Google came to my rescue. It produced the names of a couple of Middle Eastern stores in Tigran’s area, which I sent to him directly. I also put him in touch with a young Armenian couple in his area, who are looking forward to meeting him as well.

“Thank you! It would be great to meet (the couple). I found lavash in the store that is just near me. So tomorrow I’m going to make barbecue.”

Tigran, the Armenian ‘chef’

His BBQ’d pork and chicken

Tigran kept his promise, and sent me a series of photos of his cultural night preparation. His menu included approx. 4 kg (about 9 lbs.) of pork and 1 kg (a little over 2 lbs.) of chicken. He also had 25 year old Armenian brandy- not a bad meal! He served approx. 50 people from all over the world, who enjoyed both the barbecue and brandy very much.

Tigran stuffing the lavash

By the looks of the food on the grill, Armenian tri-colored leis, and traditional Armenian vest and head-wear, Tigran presented quite a meal and show!
We hope Tigran will always remember his Florida experience – and Armenian Kitchen  encounter. Much success to you, Tigran, and thanks!