Khelil Bouarrouj - The Takeout

Location

Washington, D.C.

School

George Mason University, New York University

Expertise

Gastronomy, Mediterranean Food History, Cultural Representation in Cuisine

In 2015, Khelil launched the online magazine Palestine Square, covering news, food, culture, and history.
He studies the evolution and cross-cultural sharing of cuisine across the Mediterranean and is deeply moved by what it says about human connectivity.
For the past decade, he has worked full-time or as a consultant for several nonprofit organizations, including Greenpeace, the Center for Food Safety, and the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

Experience

Khelil's first foray into writing was blogging. One blog focused on human rights caught the attention of an editor of an online news site, who recruited Khelil to write full-time for the publication. In 2015, while working at the think tank Institute for Palestine Studies, he launched the online magazine, Palestine Square, which quickly became one of the top sources for news and commentary on the subject. As a freelance writer, he has contributed numerous pieces on everything from the Moorish influence on Portuguese cuisine to reviews of LGBTQ+ films and documentaries for the New Arab and the Washington Blade. His work has also appeared in the Washington Post, Common Dreams, Truthout, and +972 Magazine. His commitment to Arab American representation was highlighted in a New York Times article on the debate about adding a Middle East and North Africa (MENA) category in the Census.

Education

Khelil has a bachelor's in global affairs from George Mason University in Virginia and a master's in Near Eastern studies from New York University.

The Takeout Editorial Policies

The Takeout’s industry-leading editorial coverage is the result of collaboration between writers and editors with a wide array of experience and expertise in the world of food and drink. Every article is fact-checked by our team of editors to ensure accuracy. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information.

Our mission is to both inform and entertain our readers, telling them everything they want to know (and more) about food. We strive to always provide a well-rounded reading experience, bringing both the biggest food news of the day and a break from the news. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Khelil Bouarrouj

15 Exceptional Beers That Are Extremely Hard To Find

The best beers aren't always easy to find. If you're committed to a high-quality brew, it's worth going the extra mile to track down these pints.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
Costco Grocery Finds That Are Made In The USA

Tariffs are expected to take a toll on several grocery store staples, but these American-made items sold at Costco should theoretically be safe.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
15 Diners Along The Pacific Coast Highway To Visit On Your Next Road Trip

Burgers, fries, and milkshakes galore await at classic diners dotted down the Pacific Coast Highway, all perfect for a mid-road trip energy boost.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
The Best Southern Restaurants In New York City

Southern food might seem out of place in NYC, but there are actually a number of joints doing Southern cooking justice in the heart of the Big Apple.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
12 Of The Unhealthiest Yogurts On Grocery Store Shelves

From a plain Greek yogurt to exciting novelty flavors, there's no shortage of yogurt options available today. These are some of the least healthy of the bunch.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
12 Of The Unhealthiest Instant Oatmeals You'll Find At The Grocery Store

Oatmeal is inarguably a healthy breakfast option, but some "instant" offerings are less than good for you -- especially considering the sugar they pack.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
The Best Pizza Places In New York City

It's not difficult to find a good slice of pizza in NYC. From subway station shops to high-end hotels, you won't find a bad pie at these Big Apple pizzerias.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
Beloved Fast Food Chains That Somehow Haven't Gone National

You never know when you're eating at the next McDonald's, which launched in California. These regional fast food favorites have yet to expand nationally.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More
How Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Capitalized On A '90s Movie To Become An International Seafood Chain

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. obviously has connections to a very popular '90s movie, but how the restaurant came about, and its continuing legacy might surprise you.
By Khelil Bouarrouj Read More

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