Kamoun & Kanoun
In the winding streets of Sousse’s old Medina, where the scent of freshly baked bread mingles with the aroma of spices, one man is determined to preserve and celebrate the flavors of Tunisia. His name is Jamel Ben Hmida, a self-taught chef whose passion for his country’s culinary traditions gave birth to Kamoun & Kanoun, a project that has quickly become a reference point for those seeking an authentic taste of Tunisia.
For Jamel, cooking has always been more than the art of combining ingredients. It is memory and heritage, a story passed from one generation to another through dishes that embody centuries of cultural exchange. “Every flavor tells us where we come from,” he often says, pointing to the blend of Amazigh, Turkish, Phoenician and Mediterranean influences that have shaped Tunisian cuisine.
With Kamoun & Kanoun, Jamel’s ambition is simple yet profound: to show the true value of Tunisian gastronomy. He insists on working with local, natural, and organic products, believing that food is not only about taste but also about authenticity and sustainability. This philosophy permeates every experience he curates, whether it be a cooking class, a catering service, or his signature Foodtour of the Medina of Sousse.
The foodtour is an immersion into the soul of the city. Guests follow Jamel through the UNESCO-listed Medina, where the hum of vendors fills the Central Market and the walls echo with centuries of history. Along the way, they stop to taste traditional drinks, savory bites, and sweet delicacies in hidden cafés and family-run eateries. The journey culminates in a traditional restaurant, where market-fresh purchases are transformed into dishes that feel both timeless and intimate. More than a tasting, it is a story of Sousse told through its food.
Kamoun & Kanoun also extends beyond tourism. Jamel provides catering for private and professional events, crafting menus that highlight the diversity of Tunisian flavors while embracing modern dietary trends. His cooking classes invite participants to roll up their sleeves and learn to prepare emblematic dishes like couscous or mlokhiya, turning tradition into a shared experience. Collaborations with local brands and artisans further enrich the project, showcasing Tunisia’s culinary treasures and giving visibility to the people who keep these traditions alive.
In many ways, Jamel Ben Hmida has become more than a chef; he is an ambassador of Tunisian culture. Through Kamoun & Kanoun, he invites the world to rediscover Tunisia not just as a destination, but as a living table where heritage, generosity, and flavor come together. His work is a reminder that in every bite lies a story and that the best way to understand a culture is to taste it.
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