Adel and Zelfa, first generation Americans, have been proving their Mediterranean recipes have staying power, and fulfilling their American dream, for over three decades. Since 1979, They have been turning out hummus, falafels, baba ghanouge, gyros, and labneh at Byblos Cafe, one of the first restaurants in Old Towne Orange.

The Mahshi’s have watched Old Towne Orange grow to what it is today. They have seen new businesses open and flourish, attempt and fail. They have always felt that a rising tide lifts all boats and have loved watching “the circle” grow. When they acquired Byblos Cafe (then a Mediterranean grocery store) in 1979, there were only two restaurants: Watson’s Soda Fountain and Felix Continental Cafe.

Adel and Zelfa’s last day at Byblos Cafe was Saturday, June 11th 2022. They stop in from time to time, and have been loving watching their son Tim and partner Pedram take the reigns.

As the new evolution of Byblos Cafe commenced, Tim Mahshi and Pedram Yarzalou have sought guidance and mentorship from the Bosscat Kitchen team: JT Reed and Leslie Nguyen. As longtime restaurateurs, JT and Leslie have been excited to help Tim and Pedram grow Byblos Cafe into, eventually, multiple locations - beyond what Adel and Zelfa ever thought imaginable.

Slight menu adjustments have been made, After Hours events have been added, Meal Prep collaborations with local gyms are growing and brunch is now a mainstay, whereas it wasn’t before.

Pedram and Tim have their goals set high. They’re looking to expand, move the concept into something more fast casual and continue the Byblos Cafe legacy farther than ever before.