Washington, D.C. - May 19, 2006

Assembly Inspired

Thyme Out Meal Assembly

The words “assembly required” have never sounded particularly sweet to you.

Which is why your books are on the floor, your place is dark, and your nephew’s sixth birthday gift sits unbuilt in the corner. (He’s now 8.)

But Thyme Out may be music to your ears. The brand new meal-assembly business offers you help in putting dishes together.

First, visit the website and select your menu and the dates you want to prepare it. Next, show up at the store, choose your ingredients, and — with the staff’s help — get to work. When you’re done, take it all home to serve right then or freeze it for later.

There are plenty of choices, like mini meatloaf, spinach and red pepper lasagna, and jambalaya. Plus, you can customize the quantity and ingredients. (No cheese? Totally fine. Must have lemon? Perfectly okay.)

They even offer the option of doing food for a whole dinner party (with extra assistance, like delivery).

Though you’re still on your own putting the dining room chairs together.

Thyme Out, 341 Main Street, North Potomac (301-990-6440 or thymeout.com).