INTERVIEW |
INTERVIEW WITH CARLA REBEIZ, FOUNDER OF “EATS THYME” AND AUTHOR OF THE LEBANESE COOKBOOK “MA TABLE LIBANAISE”
eatsthyme
Carla Rbeiz, founder of “Eats Thyme” and author of the Lebanese cookbook Ma Table Libanaise, has transformed the Lebanese dining experience in Paris. Her vision combines a rich personal history, a love for Lebanese flavors, and a drive to innovate.
Born in Beirut, Carla ventured abroad to study and build her career, initially in investment banking. Despite a successful 30-year career in finance, she longed for a more hands-on approach in the culinary world—a domain that was part of her family’s heritage. Her extensive travels exposed her to a diverse array of flavors and aromas, sparking a desire to bring a taste of Lebanon to Paris.
In 2020, during the lockdown, Carla launched Eats Thyme, a restaurant celebrating the authentic flavors of Lebanon. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, she adapted quickly, becoming one of the few to open a new dining concept during that period. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with people eager to rediscover the joy of dining and reconnect with familiar tastes.
Within a year, she expanded her venture by opening Take Your Thyme, a takeaway spot next door. For Carla, Eats Thyme is not just a restaurant but a reflection of her memories, friendships, and the essence of Lebanese hospitality. She introduced new dishes like “Chicken Breast with Lemon and Zaatar,” blending traditional flavors with a fresh twist, creating new culinary traditions that resonate with nostalgia and the vibrant spirit of Beirut.
What do you see as the core mission of “Eats Thyme”?
“Eats Thyme” is more than a restaurant; it’s my interpretation of Lebanese culture and hospitality. The idea is to create a space where people can experience the authentic flavors of Lebanon but in a modern way. It’s inspired by my memories of home, my youth, and the essence of Lebanese hospitality. Every dish we serve connects to a story or a flavor from my childhood in Beirut. The restaurant is where people can taste real Lebanese ingredients like za’atar, sumac, and labneh, not just as trendy items but as parts of something much deeper.
You’ve created some unique dishes; can you share a bit about the inspiration behind them?
We have a few creations that I’m really proud of, like our labneh cotta, a dessert we trademarked that’s based on labneh—a Lebanese staple—but reimagined as a sweet dish. It’s versatile, and people can add their own toppings to it. Another favorite is the fattet eggplant miso, a dish rooted in Lebanese tradition but with flavors from Asia. We’re not looking to do fusion but to create harmonious combinations that respect both cuisines.
Your cookbook Ma Table Libanaise has just come out—what led you to write it?
Ma Table Libanaise is, in part, a response to my clients’ requests. People were always asking, “How do you make this?” or “Can I have the recipe for your lemonade or za’atar lemon chicken?” My daughters, Alexa and Fiona, were also constantly calling for recipes, and it made me think—why not share this with everyone? I wanted to create a book that made Lebanese cooking accessible, so people don’t feel like they need to go out every time they crave Lebanese flavors.
What’s next for you and “Eats Thyme”?
We’re focused on building a solid brand and creating memorable experiences. We’ll continue doing bespoke catering for private events, and I’m excited to be part of some high-profile events in the coming years. We’re constantly experimenting with new ideas, dishes, and collaborations. For me, it’s all about sharing the Lebanese spirit in a way that feels personal and accessible. Lebanese cuisine is about joy, comfort, and gathering—and that’s what we’ll keep spreading.
Catering for private events
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