Laziza
Bed Stuy, Brooklyn
Tucked away in the heart of Bed-Stuy is Laziza, a multihyphenite spot-to-know, functioning as a Lebanese restaurant that doubles as a vinyl listening room. Laziza came to life when two friends bonded over mutual upbringings and a deep-rooted love for food. Co-owner Jilbert El-Zmetr grew up in a Lebanese household in Australia, always surrounded by family at the table and in the kitchen. He dreamed of bringing that sense of community to New York, with Laziza being that dream realized.
Full name, age, where are you from?
Jilbert El-Zmetr, 43, Sydney, Australia
What is your title and where do you work?
Owner, Laziza
What inspired you to work in the food industry?
Being obsessed with eating great food and sharing it with everyone around me. Growing up in a Lebanese household with dozens of cousins, sharing isn't optional!
What is your biggest customer pet peeve?
I wish more of them told me when they didn't like something! We love the feedback and it just helps us be better at what we do and create an even more enjoyable experience. We just want everyone to feel part of the family and families share, communicate and help each other out.
What is your most blissful food moment?
That lamb barbacoa at Hidalguense in Mexico City - honestly, it was like a religious experience.
What dish do you want to perfect in the kitchen?
None! What we do isn't about perfection, it's about doing it the best way you can, and enjoying the moment, and hoping that people share in that moment with you too.
If you could shout out a colleague or friend in the industry who would it be and why?
Javier who is our in-house dishwasher - without him, we dont open, without him customers don't have plates to eat off - he is honestly the VIP in my life right now as he really brings his best everyday and allows us to do what we do.
What is the best food city?
Gotta say Istanbul. No where else in the world do you get this amazing cross section of east and west and the history of the food we eat today is truly evident.
How do you relax outside of work?
Relax? Sorry, I've never heard that word before. Please explain?
What is your astrology sign (including moon and rising)?
Leo, Asendant in Taurus
