In a world where success in the restaurant industry demands a mix of creativity, courage, and cultural insight, the name Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz shines as a rare example. She is not only the manager of a successful restaurant in Vancouver but also the creator of an experience that connects with customers beyond the plate—through heart and soul.
Born on February 23, 1990, in Isfahan, Dr. Shekarisaz pursued a new path in Canada after years of working in education and international services. Her goal in entering the food industry wasn’t simply to serve delicious meals; it was to combine Iranian elegance, global perspective, and deep respect for her new cultural environment to build a brand with identity and depth.
Under her leadership, Lombardo’s has become more than just a place to eat—it’s a gathering spot for conversation, connection, and an experience of authenticity that is rarely found in commercial spaces. Managed by Dr. Shekarisaz, Lombardo’s has claimed its place in the heart of Vancouver not only through food but through cultural and emotional resonance.
Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz and the Vancouver Recognition
The annual Vancouver Magazine awards are among the most prestigious events in Canada’s culinary scene, where only a select few restaurants earn special recognition. In the most recent edition of this festival, Lombardo’s earned an Honourable Mention in the “Best Casual Italian Dining” category—an accolade that is anything but easy to obtain.
But behind this award lies a deeper story. For Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz, this wasn’t just a nod to food quality—it was a symbol of triumph for values like integrity, human-centered leadership, and responsible management.
By avoiding commercial shortcuts, she has curated a hosting style and dining experience that sets her restaurant apart. As noted by the event’s judges: “Lombardo’s offers more than food—it creates a cultural and human experience.” That statement may be the best way to describe the impact Dr. Shekarisaz has made.
While for many restaurants this award is the ultimate goal, for Dr. Shekarisaz it marks the beginning of something greater—a mission to elevate human standards in the food industry and inspire Iranian immigrant women who seek to be seen and heard on a global stage.
A Taste of Distinction: From Kitchen to the Heart
What makes Lombardo’s truly different cannot be summed up by its menu or décor alone. Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz brings a leadership style that blends strategy, empathy, and innovation. To her, a restaurant is a living system—one that must be managed with respect, transparency, and purpose.
From sourcing ingredients to the way staff greet each guest, every aspect of Lombardo’s is deliberately and thoughtfully crafted. But most of all, it’s the environment she has built that stands out—where employees feel safe and valued, and customers walk away with a memorable, heartfelt experience.
One of the defining features of her leadership is the balance she creates between tradition and innovation. While the foundation of Lombardo’s cuisine is rooted in authentic Italian techniques and high-quality ingredients, she has never shied away from creativity and fresh ideas.
Dr. Shekarisaz believes that staying true to quality should never limit growth—it should serve as the bridge to even greater heights.
For many loyal customers, what makes Lombardo’s special is not just the taste of its dishes but the respect and human warmth that permeate every interaction. That is exactly what transforms Dr. Shekarisaz from an ordinary manager into an architect of experiences.
