By Paula Santilli 

In the Westchase area, a thriving corner of Precinct 4, stands a beloved staple of the community that began as the dream of an immigrant family. 

In 1978, Zohrab Tcholakian, an architectural engineer, and his wife, Arpi, left Lebanon for Houston, drawn by his job, relatives in the Alief area, good schools, and affordable living. It was a leap of faith that, eventually, would lead to one of the most beloved family-owned international markets in Harris County: Phoenicia Specialty Foods. 

Phoenicia began modestly in 1983 as a mom-and-pop deli selling shawarma sandwiches, cold cuts, and a handful of imported groceries. Today, the store is a haven for local foodies as well as diverse immigrant communities missing the tastes of home.  

Phoenicia’s Westchase location employs over 140 people and is part of a sprawling complex that includes Arpi’s Deli, a coworking space, and an array of small businesses. Its offerings include fresh produce, hot meals, baked goods, and, yes, the now-famous pita bread conveyor belt. 

A new life rooted in community 

The Tcholakians didn’t just find a new community in Precinct 4 — they helped shape one. Initially they were drawn to the Westchase area because of the budding international community.   

“There were other immigrants of Armenian heritage in the area, some people my parents knew from Beirut, and eventually, with their help, a church was built: Saint Kevork Armenian Church,” said Haig Tcholakian, one of their sons and Phoenicia’s Wine and Beer manager.   

Settled in the heart of that diverse community, Phoenicia Deli evolved thanks to Zohrab and Arpi listening to the needs of its immigrant customers.  

“People would come in and say, ‘Can you bring this item from my country?’” Haig recalls.  

That demand slowly transformed the little shop into a globally stocked grocer, now located across the street on Westheimer Road. 

A family that gives back  

Phoenicia’s impact extends far beyond its aisles. Through donations, food sponsorships, and cultural partnerships, the family supports numerous organizations, including the Houston Food Bank, United Way, Discovery Green, SEARCH Homeless Services, and many more. 

They sponsor the Art Car Parade each year, provide gift cards and catering to schools and cultural groups, and support the arts through the Hobby Center and Performing Arts Houston, among other organizations.  

As Haig puts it, “It’s often in-kind — food, supplies, baskets for fundraising — but we say yes whenever we can.” 

A legacy of belonging 

From a tiny corner shop to a full-blown international food market, the Tcholakians have done more than build a business in Precinct 4 — they’ve built a home for thousands. Their story and their constant growth are proof that with vision, heart, and a commitment to the community, the American dream can be achieved and shared: one customer, one culture, and one fresh bag of pita bread at a time.