Xcape Blogs

Tim Butler is the creative force behind Eat Me, a cornerstone of Bangkok’s dining scene beloved since 1998. Born in Portland, Maine, and raised in both New York and California, Tim’s diverse upbringing shaped his ability to embrace fusion cuisine and explore flavours without being confined to a single culinary tradition.

His culinary journey began at 14 as a dishwasher in a small Italian restaurant, sparking a lifelong passion for food. After graduating from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in 1998, Tim honed his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens like Aquavit and Restaurant Daniel in New York City. There, he developed his mastery of ingredients and techniques, earning accolades such as New York’s Rising Star Chef in 2007.

Tim joined Eat Me in 2010, determined to push culinary boundaries. “What we’ve always promised our customers is that Eat Me will be a friendly restaurant serving exceptional food,” he says. “We have no limitations. Unlike traditional restaurants, we are free to experiment with the ingredients and flavours we love. You can enjoy creativity and fine ingredients without paying triple for the same quality food.”

Travel plays a significant role in Tim’s creative process. Taking five to six international trips each year, he draws inspiration from exploring ingredients like Japanese sea urchins, seasonal truffles, and French white asparagus. Tim defines Eat Me’s cuisine as New American with Asian influences, blending grilling techniques with Thai and Japanese elements.

Bold, creative, and adventurous, Tim crafts dishes centred on red meat, seafood, and vegetables. “We highlight game meat like venison in the winter or farm-to-table quail, and for seafood, we source the freshest local catches,” he explains. “I encourage guests to relax and share dishes. It makes the experience more immersive. Eat Me is a sanctuary where you can enjoy yourself, whether you’re here with a big group or just unwinding at the bar.”

When asked about the secret to Eat Me’s success, Tim points to its people. “Our staff are the heart of this restaurant. Some have been with us for decades, even since we opened in 1998. It’s remarkable how their personalities create a sense of familiarity. While the food evolves, the concept remains casual, fun, and friendly. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick meal or celebrating with a group of 20, Eat Me feels like both a neighbourhood spot and a destination for special occasions. We’ve seen guests grow up here and return with their own families, making it a part of their lives.”

Although his role has been instrumental in helping Eat Me earn recognition as one of the top restaurants both internationally and globally, Tim doesn’t see himself as a celebrity or artist but as a hard worker dedicated to maintaining standards and meeting guests’ expectations. “To me, a good chef needs patience, creativity, and endurance,” he reflects. “Running a restaurant is about consistency. It’s not as exciting as a TV show, but my greatest joy is seeing loyal friends return and make Eat Me part of their story.