An Israel chef in Chengdu: Food has no national boundary, I hope to bring the food and culture of Israel to Chengdu

Photo of Avi Barzilay Photo: Avi Barzilay

2020 is the 8th year of  Avi Barzilay’s coming to Chengdu. Avi comes from Israel, who loves to cook and wants to bring the Israel food to Chengdu. He believes that Chengdu is a city of gastronomy. The inclusiveness and passion of the local people showed for food attracted Avi deeply. Avi wants to pursue his chef dream here.

Pizza Man Photo: Zhang Yashu

Avi learned French cuisine when he was in university. After graduated, Avi began working in many different countries to learn more kinds of food, such as in Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, etc. In 2012,  Avi came to Chengdu to work for a friend, who was running a western restaurant in Chengdu. In 2018, He set up his own restaurant to cook Pizza. “Each chef has the dream of having his own restaurant.” Avi said. As a boss, he can decide what to cook.

Avi is making a pizza Photo: Zhang Yashu

Avi finds there is a common characteristic between Chengdu and Israel people, that is willing to share. “When you are sharing food, you feel very comfortable, enjoying the happiness brought by the food. I want to see my customers sharing and talking about the food. We also share the culture and history of Israel with them.” In Avi’s eyes, food can improve the communication between people.

From knowing little about Chengdu to loving this city, Avi completely agrees with the saying that Chengdu is a place where once you come, you don’t want to leave any more. Avi enjoys the simple and leisure life of Chengdu, and appreciates its inclusiveness, open and warmth. Avi has a happy family and runs a restaurant here. He is very satisfied with all the things.