Carousel Restaurant

From Beirut to Los Angeles Carousel Restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it is a journey through generations of family tradition. Our story begins in 1978 in Beirut, where my parents, Krikor (KoKo) and Vartouhi (Rose) Tcholakian, owned a small sandwich shop. When the Lebanese civil war escalated, they made the difficult decision to leave their home in search of a better future. Their dream led them to America, where they would build a new life and share their love for Middle Eastern flavors. A New Beginning in Hollywood After arriving in the U.S., my parents took on different jobs to support our family. From running a small coffee shop to crafting Armenian sausage, they worked tirelessly. In 1983, they took a leap of faith and opened Carousel in Hollywood. Using my mother’s exceptional cooking skills, they created a restaurant that felt like home—a place where guests could experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Over time, Carousel became a beloved landmark, known for its warm hospitality and rich flavors. Expanding to Glendale By 1998, the success of our Hollywood location led to the opening of a second restaurant in Glendale. With more space and weekend entertainment, we welcomed even more guests into our family tradition. As the business grew, so did our commitment to sharing the flavors and culture of the Middle East. Our goal has always been simple: to bring people together over meals made with care and heritage.