One of Portugal’s starred chefs, José Avillez, teams up with local sensation, Joe Barza, to welcome ZA’ATAR, the new Lebanese experience in Lisbon. Chef Avillez dishes on the culinary duo’s symphony of flavors
Compared to Lebanese based restaurants in Lisbon, or other parts of Portugal that you’ve visited for that matter, what sets ZA’ATAR apart?
I’m very interested in the different world cuisines and I feel the offer of ethnic cuisines in Lisbon could be more expressive, just like in other European cities. Instead of walking that road alone, I chose to invite chefs of different nationalities that are knowledgeable and experienced about their countries’ gastronomies to establish partnerships with us. I believe this way we can guarantee higher quality projects. ZA’ATAR reflects Lebanese culture, but also Joe Barza’s personality it’s a joyful, authentic and very inviting place. ZA’ATAR offers traditional Lebanese cuisine with twist in an experience that involves the five senses. The menu can be described as a symphony of Lebanese flavors and aromas.
What would you say are some of the similarities/differences between Lebanese and Portuguese cuisine and what are the challenges/advantages of familiarizing the locals with these?
Interestingly, there are plenty of similarities between the Portuguese and the Lebanese in the way we carry ourselves and in the role family plays in society. We’re generous peoples. We love socializing and welcoming guests with open arms and a plentiful table.
In terms of cuisine, clearly there are differences. Lebanese cuisine is based on the cuisine of the ancient Levant, but was profoundly influenced by the culture of the peoples that occupied the country afterwards, namely, the Ottoman Empire, for over four centuries, and France, already in the 20th century.
I think it’s a cuisine that easily wins over the Portuguese, because it’s healthy, varied, Mediterranean and “sharing” is its subjacent idea.
What, thus far, has been some of the feedback you’ve received be it from those familiar with the cuisine and those new to it?
The feedback has been very positive. We’ve been very praised by Lebanese clients who are in Lisbon and are thrilled with Za’atar because it takes them back to Lebanon and makes them feel at home. There’s no better compliment. And those who didn’t’ know [Lebanese cuisine] have been telling us they’ve surrendered to the flavors, the concept of sharing and the freshness of this cuisine. We’re very pleased.
What are your future plans in the coming year or two?
I’m always thinking about new projects. For me, new ideas generate energy and drive me to go beyond the normal boundaries of possibility. In relation to other projects, we’ll have news very soon. We are working on new openings in Lisbon, Cascais and Dubai. Stay tuned.
