Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariam Abed.
Hi Mariam, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in a family that owned businesses, so I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in those footsteps and create something of my own. When the opportunity arose, I seized the moment by brainstorming ideas to open the only Palestinian café and grill in the heart of North Olmsted. This city is special to my family—my sister and I both grew up here, went to school here, and we still call it home. It was the perfect place to bring authentic Palestinian coffee, teas, Adeni chai, and Middle Eastern food to life. At the heart of this venture is my sister Saada Z, a widow and a culinary artist who has served the community with love and dedication for 18 years. Known for her incredible dishes and signature handmade dough, she has earned over 8,000 followers and 400,000 views on Snapchat Spotlight. Her passion and kindness have touched countless lives, and it was my honor, alongside my father, to help her bring her dream of a restaurant to life, showcasing her talent in the city that means so much to us.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some challenges we faced along the way included taking two years to open—it was a long road filled with back-and-forth discussions with the city. Balancing this process with everyone’s full-time jobs made it even more difficult. At times, we had doubts, especially with so much competition nearby. However, we stayed determined, and thanks to our unique recipes and vision, we overcame the obstacles and came out stronger
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Black Seed Café is more than just a business—it’s a dream turned reality. While it’s still a work in progress and an investment, my true profession is being an LPN at University Hospitals Cleveland Main Campus in the Cardiovascular Unit. What makes me most proud is being the youngest in my family and achieving something I once only imagined—opening a café and grill. What sets me apart is my ability to juggle it all: being a full-time nurse, a mom, a wife, and now a business owner. Patience has been my greatest asset, allowing me to embrace every challenge and truly embody what it means to turn a vision into reality with the help of my lovely family.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are many ways to work with, collaborate with, or support Black Seed Café and Grill as we continue to grow and serve our community. Whether it’s spreading the word, partnering with us, or simply stopping by to enjoy our food and drinks, every bit of support helps us bring our vision to life.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay updated on our menu, events, and special announcements. Engage with us online, share your favorite moments, and be part of the Black Seed family.
Your support means the world to us, and together, we can continue to share the rich flavors of Palestinian cuisine and create a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackseedcafecle?igsh=ems2eDR0MHNrOWdz&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AwBFvzMLL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/65-Uzuw0D8
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackseedcafecleveland?_t=ZP-8soSM5Gm9ZW&_r=1
