Imagine a doctor who traded his scalpel for a whisk, his scrubs for an apron, and the sterile environment of an operating room for the warm embrace of a Parisian bakery. This is the story of Abdul Latif Alrashoudi, a Saudi Arabian physician who discovered his true calling in the art of baking.
From Riyadh to the Republic: Following a Passion
Latif’s journey from Riyadh to the bustling streets of Paris wasn’t straightforward. As a young orthopedic surgeon, he felt a strong pull towards the world of pastries. While he excelled in the medical field, baking provided him with a sense of peace and fulfillment.
He spent countless weekends crafting delectable desserts for friends, offering a sweet escape from the demanding world of medicine. However, his dream of attending the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu pastry school in Paris seemed out of reach.
A Chance Encounter with Opportunity
But fate had other plans. In 2019, Saudi Arabia’s diversification efforts opened new doors, and Latif was chosen to join a group of passionate bakers to study at Le Cordon Bleu. This was a turning point in his life. At 30 years old, he embraced his newfound opportunity, leaving his medical career behind and heading to Paris with an apron in hand.
Baking Through Challenges: A Parisian Odyssey
Latif’s Parisian adventure wasn’t without its challenges. The sudden arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted his studies, but he persevered. After graduating with honors, he secured an internship at the renowned La Tour d’Argent restaurant, further honing his skills.
This was just the beginning of his Parisian journey. He worked as a pastry chef at the charming Treize au Jardin café before launching his own catering business with a friend. This experience, along with meticulous market research, fueled his dream of opening his own bakery.
A Dream Takes Shape: LÂM, a Parisian Gem
Latif’s dream finally materialized last September when he opened LÂM, his very own Parisian bakery, on the trendy Rue Notre Dame de Nazareth. Located just a short walk from the vibrant Place de la Republique, LÂM quickly gained popularity for its unique Middle East-inspired pastries.
Customers flock to LÂM for its tantalizing treats, like Latif’s signature halva cookies and black lemon buns, and its exceptional coffee. He believes that LÂM is more than just a bakery – it’s a “coffee shop owned by a pastry chef,” offering a perfect blend of deliciousness and ambiance.
A Symphony of Flavors: A Culinary Masterpiece
Latif’s creations are a testament to his culinary talent and passion. From the exquisitely crafted cakes, featuring flavors like chocolate tahini, pistachio fleur d’oranger, and his unique cinnamon roll – the roule au citron noir – to the savory delights like zaatar feta buns and gourmet quiches, every item on the menu is a masterpiece.
The heart of LÂM lies in the fusion of cultures and flavors. Latif seamlessly blends his Saudi heritage with the essence of Parisian baking, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for his patrons.
From Doctor to Pâtissier: A Journey of Fulfillment
Latif’s journey from doctor to pastry chef is a testament to the power of following your dreams. He embraced his passion, even when it meant stepping outside the conventional path. His success is an inspiration to anyone who feels drawn to pursue their true calling, no matter how unconventional it may seem.
Today, LÂM stands as a vibrant testament to Latif’s courage, dedication, and the enduring power of following your heart. It’s a place where flavors dance, cultures blend, and dreams become reality, all thanks to a doctor who traded his stethoscope for a spatula, and found his true calling in the sweet embrace of pastry.
