BASBOUSA IS THE BEAUTIFUL MASHUP OF TWO  CULTURES BROUGHT INTO ONE FAMILY: from a small farm town in Kentucky and a mountain village in Lebanon.

Grandma Charlcie was born on a farm with 13 brothers and sisters. She was fierce and smart and she grew to love her diamonds, her hair curled just so, and her fingernails always perfectly painted. She drove around in her silver convertible even in her 80’s and she was beloved by absolutely everyone in Myrtle Beach, SC, where I grew up.

Now, Grandma Samira was much different. Full Lebanese Druze, her mother Shafeeka was illiterate and smart as a tack. She was the one who ran things, as women often do. Samira was joyful, an absolute lover of food, and could she ever stay up late and play cards with all the kids and cousins. Passed down through that family is the tradition of arguing as a pastime, of asking questions, of cooking Lebanese food together, and of course of eating.

I am proud to blend these two cultures and stories together as they have shaped me. I humbly hope you enjoy everything and the fun we have creating a gorgeous space and excellent food. Your enjoyment is my happiness!