Roubina Begoumian during John Paul II’s Papal Visit to Armenian in 2001
GLENDALE—When Pope Francis visits Armenia on Friday, he’ll get a little taste of Los Angeles during the many receptions and dinners that he will be attending. That’s because LA’s own Roubina Begoumian, the proprietor of the renowned Roberts Catering Service, will be on hand to oversee all of the catering for the Papal Visit.
Begoumian is no stranger to those living in Southern California since for more than 40 years she and her Roberts Catering Services have been mainstays at community events, lavish banquets, private parties, as well as many an official gatherings both within and outside of the Armenian community.
By the same token, Begoumian is also well-known in Armenia, since she catered and oversaw all reception for another Papal Visit, that of Pope John Paul II’s, who traveled to Armenia in 2001.
“It is a great honor for me to undertake the receptions for the Papal Visit to our homeland,” said Begoumian, explaining that the success of her catering and immaculate service during 2001 Papal Visit prompted His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians to once again entrust her with this important task.
“I am very happy that, once again, we have been invited to host the Papal receptions,” said a humbled Begoumian. She who recalled the 800-person reception she catered for Pope John Paul II who was treated to a wide array of Armenian delicacies, European dishes and Middle-Eastern favorites at a reception at the Karen Demirchian Sports and Entertainment Complex. Begoumian said she will be adding an Argentinian touch to her menu for Pope Francis, who hails from Buenos Aires as the first Latin American pope.
Begoumian traveled to Armenia two months ago and because acquainted with the pope’s itinerary, as well as the details of his visit and immediately began planning for the events.
“Cooking and preparing the food is not the only aspect in our line of work. Service and presentation are equally important. Hospitality is an all-encompassing undertaking and I am very meticulous about it,” said Begoumian.
In is that same attention to detail and commitment that has garnered Begoumian the reputation and notoriety and has made her a house hold name.
Begoumian studied hospitality and restaurant management in Vienna. She was the director of hospitality for Iran’s royal family and after the Iranian Revolution she settled in California, where she acquired Roberts Catering Service, turning into one of the most successful and sought-after catering companies in Southern California.
She counts Walt Disney Company, DeamWorks Entertainment, Nestle and the Los Angeles International Airport as part of her impressive roster of clients, which also include various government offices, countless organizations as well as individuals such as Kirk Kerkorian and other Hollywood luminaries. She is also a known presence in some of the more prominent hotel chains in the country.
One thing is certain: The pope is in for a treat.
Source: Asbarez
Link: LA’s Own Roubina Begoumian to Oversee All Catering for Papal Visit