Welcome to Haiti Bites! I’m Sylvie Castera Linge, a passionate chef and devoted restaurateur, weaving my culinary dreams into the vibrant tapestry of Haiti's rich flavors. My journey through the world of Haitian cuisine is driven by a love that runs deep, and I’m thrilled to share this exquisite experience with you.

A Warm Welcome

Nestled in my beloved hometown of Port-au-Prince, Le Bistro Haiti Bites is a cozy haven where friends and family gather to savor the essence of authentic Haitian food. As you step through our doors, I invite you to feel at home on our cozy terrace celebrating life in the tropics, where each meal is a celebration and every dish is crafted with care, infused with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Food, to me, is a bridge that connects hearts and creates lasting memories, and I strive to make every dining moment a cherished experience.

A Diverse Background

My path to the culinary arts has been a rich mosaic of experiences. I once danced in the world of communications, magazine publishing, branding, marketing and corporate event planning, honing my storytelling skills and nurturing a keen eye for detail. My time as a food critic opened my eyes to the beauty of diverse cuisines and the magic that lies within each dish. These journeys paved the way for my culinary adventure, teaching me the importance of quality, creativity, and the artistry of presentation.

The Journey Begins

My culinary journey blossomed with the launch of HaitiBites.com, a food blog I created in 2010. In the shadow of the earthquake, I yearned to illuminate the beauty and richness of Haiti's culinary landscape. I believe our homeland brims with treasures waiting to be discovered, and I am excited to unveil them through my work. Haiti, the original frontier of Caribbean food, possesses a history that deserves to be cherished and celebrated.

In 2018, I expanded my vision, introducing L’Atelier Haiti Bites, a vibrant hub where food lovers can explore, learn, and connect. Here, we delve into the art of cooking, uncovering the secrets of traditional Haitian dishes while embracing innovative techniques that honor our heritage. I take great joy in nurturing budding talent and sharing my passion for cooking with others. Whether you’re a novice seeking guidance or a seasoned cook looking to refine your craft, I am here to guide you on a delightful journey through the art of Haitian cuisine.

Expanding Horizons

With this vision in mind, I opened the official Haiti Bites location in 2021, a unique tri-concept that harmonizes three experiences under one roof. At the heart of this venture lies Le Bistro, where traditional Haitian dishes dance alongside modern culinary creations. La Boutique beckons with artisanal treasures, showcasing handcrafted goods and local ingredients that tell the story of our culture. Finally, L’Atelier’s spirit remains and serves as a vibrant cookery space, inviting aspiring chefs and home cooks alike to join me in hands-on workshops, sharing the joy of culinary discovery.

Celebrating Haitian Cuisine

Through my work, I am devoted to promoting and celebrating Haitian cuisine both locally and internationally. Haiti Bites stands as a cultural ambassador for our culinary identity, and I carry the pride of representing Haiti on the global stage everywhere I go. Collaborating with local farmers, artisans, and fellow chefs, I seek to inspire appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Haitian food culture. Each dish tells a tale, and I am thrilled to share these stories with you.

For me, food is a way to root people in their inheritance, a tapestry woven from the threads of our ancestral culinary traditions. I revel in the rediscovery of forgotten foods and techniques, striving to reintroduce flavors that have faded from memory. It is our sacred duty to be guardians not only of our grandmothers’ cherished recipes but also the culinary legacies of our ancestors. Every rich aroma wafting from our kitchen carries the weight of beautiful stories, waiting to be shared and celebrated.

A Toast to Literature

At Haiti Bites, our cocktail list is a joyful ode to Haitian literature. As an avid reader and self-proclaimed bookworm, I draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of our literary heritage, crafting a menu that pays tribute to our cherished authors and the vibrant culture they embody. My love for rums and Clairin ignites our creativity, leading us to create delicious libations that reflect the very essence of Haiti.

A little-known secret is that my husband is a master rum distiller, and I delight in incorporating his exquisite creations into my cocktail list, blending fine spirits and liqueurs with love at the bar, and in the kitchen. Each cocktail tells a story, celebrating the unique flavors of our terroir, inviting you to savor a delightful experience. We encourage you to eat local and drink local, immersing yourself in the spirit of Haiti as you enjoy these carefully crafted drinks. Cheers to a literary journey in every sip and to you!

Culinary Philosophy

My culinary philosophy is woven with threads of community, sustainability, and creativity. I believe that food should not only nourish the body but also bring people together, creating lasting memories and honoring the rich traditions of my homeland. At Haiti Bites, I aspire to cultivate an experience that transcends the plate—one that fosters connection, understanding, and appreciation for our culture.

Join Me!

Whether you’re dining at Le Bistro, exploring unique finds at La Boutique, joining a cooking class at L’Atelier, or attending a friendly community event, I am eager to share my passion for Haitian cuisine with you. Together, let’s celebrate all that Haiti has to offer! I look forward to welcoming you to Haiti Bites, where every meal is a heartfelt celebration of flavor, culture, and community. Together, let us put Haiti on the culinary map!