Marsia Taha Mohamed is a chef recognized for her commitment to enhancing Bolivia's culinary biodiversity and promoting local gastronomic culture. In 2024, she was awarded the title of Best Female Chef in Latin America by 50 Best.
Born in Bulgaria in 1989 to a Palestinian father and Bolivian mother, Marsia Taha moved to Bolivia when she was five years old. She grew up in a family of independent working women, where her father was responsible for the daily meals. From an early age, she was fascinated by the colors, aromas, and flavors of La Paz's vibrant markets and street food.
She initially studied organic chemistry, but lost interest in the medical field and decided to enroll in culinary school. Her training led her to work at renowned restaurants in Copenhagen, including Geist and The Standard. In 2013, she joined the team at Gustu in La Paz, founded by Claus Meyer. Under her leadership, the latter embraced a "kilometer zero" philosophy, using only ingredients from the surrounding area and reflecting the culture and identity of the country in every dish.
In 2018, Marsia co-founded Sabores Silvestres, a research and education project that promotes the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation and enhancement of native food heritage. This led her to explore different ecosystems, from the Andes to the Amazon, working with different communities to discover and safeguard raw materials and traditional techniques.
In November 2024, she opened his first store, Arami, in the Achumani neighborhood. The name "Arami" means "fragment of heaven" in Guarani, one of the indigenous languages of Bolivia. Here she offers a casual experience that highlights the richness and diversity of a great land.
