Hi, I’m Zara, the heart behind gourm8.

Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where food, creativity, and connection meet in every recipe I share.

By profession, I’m a CPA, so numbers, spreadsheets, and deadlines have been a big part of my life for years. But behind all of that, there’s always been something else quietly simmering: a real love for food. Not just eating it, but getting my hands into it, experimenting, recreating dishes I’ve tasted, and sharing it all with the people I love. In 2024, I finally gave that passion room to grow, and that’s how gourm8 came to life. It’s more than a blog. It’s my creative outlet and a place where I pour a little piece of myself into every dish.

I love making recipes from scratch, often inspired by memories, places I’ve visited, or a single bite that lingers in my mind. Sometimes it’s the flavor that sticks with me. Sometimes it’s a texture I can’t stop thinking about. And eventually, it all makes its way into my kitchen.

Coffee is my quiet moment in the day, and I always feel most grounded when I’m out in nature. I’ve come to believe that art is everywhere, whether it’s in a sunset, a song, or a simple, beautifully plated dish. Cooking, for me, is one of the most personal ways to tell a story. It’s how I express myself.

Somewhere along this journey, I also fell for photography and cinematography. I didn’t expect it, but now I can’t imagine cooking without a camera nearby. Capturing the golden crisp of bread fresh out of the oven or the way sauce clings to pasta has made me see food in a new light as moments, not just meals.

What I love most about cooking, though, is how it brings people together. Whether it’s a quiet breakfast with family, a weeknight dinner, or a spontaneous get-together with friends, food has this way of creating connection.

gourm8 is a reflection of me. A little structured, a little spontaneous, and always curious. Here you’ll find recipes that are comforting, fresh, creative, and always made with intention. My hope is that you find something here that inspires you to cook, share, and enjoy. Because let’s face it, we all have to eat, so why not do it with love and a bit of creativity?

Thank you for being here. I hope you stay a while and find something delicious to make your own.