Chef Ninamarie, a culinary goddess, is a vivacious new face of the Hellenic community.

By Katherine Giokas

Ninamarie Bojekian, a Greek-Armenian American, has been inspired by her strong heritage to follow her love for cooking. Infusing the distinct flavors of the Mediterranean with a unique style and flare, there is no denying why Chef Ninamarie was chosen for this year’s “People to Watch in 2009” by a premier New Jersey publication, (201) Magazine.

Already predisposed to be hospitable and knowing her way around the kitchen (like most Greeks!), Ninamarie realized her talents soon after throwing her own lavish dinner parties and wakening the palates of many. The inspired chef knew she could take her passion and show many what it really means to be absolutely fabulous!

Ninamarie’s journey towards her dream of starting her own catering company began after gaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology and receiving a Grand Diploma from the French Culinary Institute in New York City, for Classic Culinary Arts. She then had the privilege of working under several notable chefs in New York City, including those of the very well-respected Aquavit.

After putting in her time in someone else’s kitchen, she knew it was time to have her own! It was then that she decided to launch Ooh La La Catering Co., a full-service boutique catering and events company. Today, you can find Ninamarie, hard at work tailoring menus for her diverse weekly clientele or planning exquisite events that clearly reflects her zest, dedication and attention to detail.

The enthusiastic chef describes her style of cooking as a “Mediterranean, French and fruity fusion.” Ninamarie explains: “the most important thing for me is that the host is gleaming with pride and that their guests are loving every bite of something fresh and fun.”

Close your eyes. Imagine indulging in a mouth-watering combination of shrimp ceviche over pickled apple. Get lost in a fig-stuffed gnocchi. Then end with chilled basil-infused poached fruit, topped with sweetened crème fraîche while sipping on a tart-rosemary gin martini. These are the flavors of Chef Ninamarie Bojekian.

Not ever forgetting where her knack for the flavors of food and the joy of entertaining began, Ninamarie has her strong heritage, community and namesake, founder of Nina Records, to thank for her inspiration. Ninamarie continues the Greek tradition of hospitality and mixes it up with her congeniality!

For more information on Ooh La La’s catering and private chef services, visit www.OohLaLaCateringCo.com.