Meet Said Saliba | Personal Chef

We had the good fortune of connecting with Said Saliba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Said, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
My ultimate dream is to open my own restaurant—not just in the U.S., but also in Lebanon, and perhaps even in my hometown “Chrine”.
This restaurant would feature a seasonal menu inspired by stories of how I learned each recipe, using authentic spices to create a global culinary journey in a serene, uniquely designed space and a big palette of choices. I might name it Samar (meaning “night whispers”) in honor of my mother, who has been my inspiration and partner in perfecting recipes and adding creative twists.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My creative journey began in eighth grade when I designed a magazine advertisement for English class with my mom’s help, earning the highest grade. That experience ignited a lifelong passion for creativity. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing, followed by another bachelor’s and a master’s degree in interior architecture.
This diverse background in art, design, and innovation shaped my culinary philosophy: know the rules, then break or twist them. Each dish I create is a blend of meticulous craftsmanship, heartfelt passion, and artistic presentation.
Taking risks has been a defining theme in my life. Though I sometimes overthink decisions, I eventually embrace bold choices. One of my biggest leaps was leaving a successful career in my family’s architecture and construction business in Lebanon, where I was a co-founder and part-time educator for eight years. I moved to the U.S. to pursue a master’s degree in Interior Architecture at UCLA and Cal Poly Pomona, graduating with distinction. Starting my own business from scratch in the U.S. was another significant risk, especially after losing my savings due to Lebanon’s economic crisis.
Despite my love for fashion and reputation for stylishness, I maintain a conservative budget—a principle instilled by my father, who emphasized saving, preparing for emergencies, and avoiding unnecessary expenses. This financial discipline allows me to enjoy life while setting aside savings for the future.
Step by step, I’ve turned challenges into milestones in my journey to achieve my dreams. Ultimately, I’ve learned that what others think of you is none of your business. Focus on your own path, and keep your private life private. I also believe compassion and love are the essential ingredients for both my recipes and my life. As I often told my students, “If you can’t do what you love, learn to love what you do.” In the kitchen, I channel my passion and emotions into every meal, ensuring each dish is crafted with care and heart.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Palm Springs is a fantastic vacation destination, with its economy largely based on tourism. Being a social person, I often host friends and family.
Let me share our journey for a week-long adventure. I’m sure I’ll be preparing some of their favorite dishes, and they’ll undoubtedly challenge my cooking skills (in a fun way) as we try out what I make. Beyond home cooking, there are a few excellent restaurants I love for their ambiance and diverse menus.
For sightseeing, we can visit iconic spots such as the Palm Springs Art Museum, the Forever Marilyn, the Palm Springs Air Museum, and the Tramway History Museum, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from above. Despite being in the desert, it occasionally snows at the top of the tramway! Another must-visit is the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
When it comes to nightlife, One Eleven Bar is my top choice—I always reserve a table there. The atmosphere is friendly, and I’m a close friend with the owners and close with the staff. They host entertainment throughout the week, but my favorite is Friday night with Vanity Halston. Alternatively, we could visit one of the many hotel bars in the area, some of which have stunning rooftop views. Palm Springs also offers plays and musicals year-round.
If we’re up for a day trip, we’re conveniently close to Disneyland, Los Angeles (Hollywood, Walk of Fame, Universal Studios), San Diego (San Diego Zoo)… The options are endless!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My culinary journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to reconnect with my mother. I would video call her for guidance and advice while cooking. These moments became a cherished link to her, my family and my homeland, as many of my recipes come from her, my aunties…
Over time, I’ve learned to keep my circle small, stay focused on my goals, and let my achievements speak for themselves. The people I’ve encountered—both supportive and challenging—have shaped who I am, and I am grateful for them all. My close friends in Lebanon, whom I call my chosen family, remain a vital part of my life. Similarly, I’ve built deep friendships in the U.S. since moving here. These people are the spice of my life and my backbone; they believe in me and share my journey.
Moving to a foreign country as a Middle Eastern individual wasn’t easy, but the challenges fueled my growth. I am a huge Beyoncé fan, and in 2016, I read “Becoming Beyoncé the untold story”, a book about her life, which resonated deeply with me. Her journey of perseverance—from humble beginnings to global stardom while overcoming discrimination and negativity—inspired me to push forward.
Ultimately, I’ve embraced the belief that what others think of you is none of your business. Focus on your path, keep your private life private, and never lose sight of your goals.

Website: https://saisation.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/chefsaidps/profilecard/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EP8_p2CzPI