Our Chef and Owner
Nehme William Elbitar
Nehme’s passion for cooking was sparked in his mother’s kitchen, where he watched her prepare meals with ingredients from their garden and feed the neighborhood. Her generosity and love for food inspired him to pursue a culinary career, never imagining how far it would take him.
He studied Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management at Kafaat University in Beirut, Lebanon, before moving to Texas to chase the American dream. Starting as a dishwasher, Nehme worked his way up in local Lebanese restaurants while learning English and Spanish along the way.
Eventually, he opened his first restaurant, Café Chadra—a humble space that quickly gained a loyal following. Its success led him to purchase and renovate a building in Fort Worth’s medical district, transforming it into Chadra Mezza and Grill. The restaurant received a neighborhood revitalization award and became a local favorite.
Today, Nehme is the owner and head chef of Chadra Catering Co., West Fork Grill, and the event space Mezza South. Alongside his wife Christina, he continues to share the flavors of his hometown of Chadra through dishes rooted in Mediterranean tradition and a deep sense of community.
Chief of Operations
Christina Elbitar
Christina Elbitar is a dedicated entrepreneur and volunteer committed to enriching her community. A Fort Worth native, she graduated from the High School of Medical Professions at North Side and earned a BBA in Finance from the University of North Texas. Her corporate finance background has been instrumental in owning and managing several family-owned businesses, including Café Chadra, Inc., 1622 Park Place Properties, LLC, and NS Socios, LLC.
Christina oversees the daily operations of the beloved Lebanese restaurant she co-owns with her husband and executive chef, Nehme Elbitar. A staple in the Near Southside for over 20 years, Chadra Mezza is renowned for its award-winning Mediterranean cuisine and catering services.
Christina and Nehme continue to grow their ventures, including West Fork Grill, Tacos Rx (opening spring 2025), and Mezza South, a new event venue. At home, they cultivate an 8-care farm and cherish time with their young son, Liam.
