Today we’d like to introduce you to Mojdeh Eghbal.
Hi Mojdeh, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I immigrated to the United States in 2004 and began pursuing my passion for food and wine. I was trained by a Greek chef and took many classes to learn about wine—especially how to pair it with food. Soon, I started cooking for clients and creating customized wine pairings for each meal. Over time, my clientele grew, and I began hosting multi-course lunches and dinners featuring carefully paired wines.
Back in my home country, I was on a completely different path, running my family business, which imported medical products and supplied them to private hospitals. After moving here, I decided to follow my true passion—food and wine. I also began studying traditional Iranian recipes and reimagining them with a modern twist to serve at my sit-down dinner events.
In my family, food has always been very important. My grandmother and mother were both incredible cooks, and I believe their love for cooking runs in my genes. When I cook, I do it with love and passion, and I think that’s why my guests always say “wow.” I put my heart into every dish and share it with genuine warmth and Iranian hospitality.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, it wasn’t a smooth road. Moving to another country is never easy—especially at the age of 32. I had to start all over again: learning a new language, adapting to a completely different culture, and being far away from my family and friends. There were moments of loneliness and uncertainty, but I was determined to build a new life for myself.
It took time, patience, and resilience to find my path. Every challenge taught me something valuable and helped me grow both personally and professionally. Looking back, I see that those struggles shaped who I am today and gave me the strength to follow my passion for food and hospitality with even more purpose and heart.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a private chef based in Southern California, specializing in elegant multi-course dining experiences — from five to nine or even twelve-course lunches and dinners — each thoughtfully paired with fine wines. I also design customized menus for large private events, offering a blend of creativity, hospitality, and artistry in every detail.
One of my greatest passions is representing and celebrating Iranian cuisine. I’ve had the privilege of working with different organizations to introduce authentic Persian flavors to a wider audience. I am especially proud to have collaborated with the Farhang Foundation organization who promoted Iranian culture with the Getty Museum during their four-month Iranian exhibition, where my recipes were served to over seven million visitors.
What makes my work unique is my dedication to reviving traditional Iranian recipes and presenting them in a modern, refined way. I feel deeply honored to bring these old family recipes back to life and share them with new generations — both Persian and non-Persian — helping people experience the beauty, depth, and warmth of Iranian culture through food.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about living in the United States, and here in Southern California, is the freedom it offers — especially as a woman. It’s something I never fully experienced in my home country. I have the opportunity to follow my passions, run my own business, and express myself freely. That sense of independence and possibility has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally in ways I never imagined.
On the other hand, what I like least is some of the rules and systems here, particularly when it comes to taxes and the amount of work required to sustain a business. Running a private chef business and hosting large events is incredibly rewarding, but managing all the paperwork, taxes, and long hours can be challenging.
Overall, the positives far outweigh the challenges, and I feel grateful to live in a place where I can pursue my dreams and share my culture with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.noush.net
- Instagram: Chefmojdeh
- Facebook: Chefmojdeh
- Youtube: Chefmojdeh
Image Credits
Shadi Amini
