LOVE, CUISINE AND CULTURE
Our story is rooted in a Persian family and a loving mother named Maryam Marvani, better known to us as Kurkumama. Today, what began as Maryam’s quest to spice up people’s lives with her passion for the health benefits of curcuma, has grown into a mission carried on by her sons, Feysal and Sina.
“KURKUMA-” stands for her love of bold spices whilst “-MAMA” speaks to who she is: a tireless nurturer and the heart of our hospitality family. Inspired by Maryams’s work ethic — love, cuisine, and culture — we aim to share the joy of soulful hospitality with as many people as possible.
.
WE DO IT FOR LOVE
Cooking has always been Maryam's love language. As a warm-hearted and strong-willed mother of three who emigrated from Iran to Belgium with her husband and children in 1999. This passion for food and culture turns every dinner table into a place of connection, warmth, and love—a tapestry of treasured memories for her family (which includes each one of our guests).
Love is also the reason why we actively seek to build partnerships with local organisations and contribute to world-wide charities. We believe in tradition as much as we strive for a better, inclusive future. Sustainability, health, and ethical choices guide us, ensuring that our hustle nurtures not just people, but also the Earth we aim to thrive in.
A WORD FROM OUR FOUNDERS
“Like many Persian immigrant families around the world, most of our childhood memories were made around the dinner table. Every Persian will tell you that their mum’s cooking is the best. We approach our passion for culture and cuisine with the same devotion”.
FEYSAL & SINA GHAFELZADEH
CUISINE IS CONNECTION
What sets us apart is our passion for sharing culture through cuisine and going above and beyond for every guest. Just like Kurkumama's passion turned the dinner table into a place of warmth, connection, and love through the challenges of starting fresh in Belgium after leaving Iran in 1999. That spirit drives us everyday, from the moment you step in one of our locations you’ll feel the inviting ambiance, enjoy dishes rich in flavour, and experience heartfelt hospitality inspired by Maryam’s dedication. Our mission is simple: to bring people together in a place where every meal feels like a shared celebration of life and tradition.
Hosting an event? Let us know!OUR RESTAURANTS
-
NUDE KORTRIJK
Step into our cosy, cosmopolitan cocktail bar and food-sharing bistro concept inspired by the Levant. We serve yummy mezzes, unique cocktails and flawless vibes.
-
SPICY LEMON
Welcome in our playground where local twists meet traditional Middle Eastern recipes for an absolute food-sharing dinner, created with love by chef Maryam Marvani.
-
CHOCLO KORTRIJK
Join us in a culinary adventure into the aromas, textures and flavours of Latin America, with a deep focus on craft and tradition, curated by head chef Edgar Orduño.
CULTURE IS CELEBRATION
We believe in a world where people celebrate and are inspired by the diversity of their culture. With more than 20 nationalities in our team, we are convinced that diversity adds spices and sparks emotions. We are here to share the best we can offer: our flavours, our care, the sense that we are all part of something bigger. Beyond service, hospitality is the way we build a bridge to the world we believe in.
Feel the same way? Join our team!