ZOV KARAMARDIAN
FOUNDER
ZOV’S
WHY: Credited with introducing Mediterranean cuisine to the area in the 1980s via her Zov’s restaurant, which currently counts three locations. Recognized as OC’s first celebrity chef.
IN THE NEWS: In business for 35 years. Planning to open the fourth Zov’s location in Orange County by expanding into San Clemente.
NOTABLE: Armenian immigrant has authored two cookbooks, hosted dinners at the prestigious James Beard House on numerous occasions, cooked alongside Julia Child at her Tustin bistro and was honored by the State of California as the 2004 Chef of the Year.
