SAVANNAH, Georgia (PGM) — Breakfast, the quintessential start to the day, gains a new level of significance with the delectable offerings of Big Bon Bagels, a venture helmed by culinary virtuoso Shahin Afsharian and his partner Kay Heritage. The bagels, masterfully crafted to be both low in carbohydrates and irresistibly flavorful, have garnered attention for their unique twist on a breakfast classic.
The appeal of Big Bon Bagels lies not only in their delightful taste but also in their health-conscious approach. "They are healthy because we don't use sugars; instead, we sweeten them with honey, and they are made with unrefined flours, and whenever possible, organic flours," shared Afsharian.
This commitment to wholesome ingredients not only ensures a guilt-free indulgence but also reflects Afsharian's dedication to delivering a truly authentic and nourishing culinary experience.
Afsharian's journey through the culinary world began at an early age, influenced by his diverse cultural background and love for flavors. With an impressive 15 years of luxury culinary experience, including internships, accolades, and Michelin Star Training, his expertise shines through the meticulously prepared bagels that have become a highlight of Savannah's culinary scene.
Hailing from a Mexican- Iranian background, Afsharian's culinary ventures have spanned the globe, from the French and English Embassies in Mexico City to training alongside renowned Michelin-Starred Chef Joël Robuchon in Monte-Carlo.
He contributed to the inception of Atlanta's Vespucci’s Italian Kitchen and added a dash of excellence to the flavors of Havana Blue in St. Thomas, USVI. His influence even reached New York City, where he provided consulting expertise to Mihoko’s 21 Grams.
Afsharian's journey continued as he contributed his talents to exclusive establishments such as Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Elway’s Steak Houses in Denver. His partnership led to the creation of Salati Italian Street Food in Colorado, a concept that combined his culinary finesse with accessible gourmet cuisine.
Presently, Afsharian holds the position of Chief Operating Officer at Big Bon Foods, an enterprise that oversees multimillion-dollar operations and expansion in Savannah. His role as Executive Chef at The Kessler Collection and JW Marriott Savannah allowed him to shape the culinary landscape in the Plant Riverside District, a dynamic entertainment hub. He orchestrated the development of 14 distinct food and beverage outlets, showcasing his penchant for innovation in presentation and originality.
Afsharian's international and national exploits have endowed him with the skill to navigate upscale establishments and infuse them with his distinctive creativity. His mission goes beyond culinary excellence; it's about offering patrons, guests, and students a genuine experience that transcends borders and unites through the universal language of food.
In a fiercely competitive hospitality industry, Shahin Afsharian stands out as a visionary who blends authenticity, innovation, and human connection, making each breakfast at Big Bon Bagels an opportunity to savor not just flavors, but a shared moment of global harmony.
