HUMMUS RECIPES
There is no doubt about the popularity of hummus, which is a staple on tables in the Middle East region, and has become a favorite buy the world over.
Serves 5 | Prep/cooking 65 mins
INGREDIENTS |
- 250g chickpeas
- 1tbs baking soda
- 10g garlic
- 75g olive oil
- 350g tahini
- 250g lemon juice
- 4 ice cubes
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of paprika&parsley (optional)
PREPARATION |
- Soak the chickpeas in cold water overnight (minimum of 10 hours) adding baking soda .
- The next day, remove the water and pour into a pot, add water and bring to boil over a high flame.
- Skim off foam that comes to surface. then once the water boils, lower the heat until the chickpeas have softened, around 20 minutes (it will break between your fingers).
- Drain the chickpeas but keep about 1 cup of the water in the pot. Set aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients. Keep about 1/4 cup of the chickpeas for garnish.
- Make a creamy paste by adding the chickpeas in a food processor for a few minutes, then add ice cubes, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. taste to adjust seasoning.
- Pour the hummus in a bowl, garnish with the whole chickpeas and a little extra-virgin olive oil , parsley and sprinkling of paprika are optional. Serve with bread.
WHAT’S NEW |
INSIDE GAULT&MILLAU THE GUIDE REDEFINING GASTRONOMY IN SAUDI ARABIA
We explore the legacy, philosophy, and growing influence of Gault&Millau as it officially launches in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Understanding a culinary institution
For decades, Gault&Millau has stood as one of the most respected voices in global gastronomy—a guide revered not for theatrics or hype but for a steadfast commitment to craftsmanship. Founded in Paris in 1969 by journalists Henri Gault and Christian Millau, the guide took a different path from its counterparts: instead of elevating formality, it celebrated creativity, technique, and the chefs reshaping the culinary landscape.
Often described as the “chef’s guide,” Gault&Millau became known for discovering emerging talent before it reached the mainstream. Its signature toques—awarded based on anonymous, rigorously independent inspections—became a mark of authenticity and excellence.
Today, the brand is present in more than 20 countries, and its arrival signals the maturation of a food culture ready to meet international standards.
A new chapter in the kingdom
With our company recently launching Gault&Millau in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom joins a global network of gastronomic destinations recognized for ambition and innovation. The move arrives at a pivotal moment: Saudi Arabia’s dining scene is expanding with unprecedented speed, driven by local talent, international partnerships, and a growing appetite for culinary exploration.
By applying Gault&Millau’s established methodology—already explored in our previous article on their rating system—restaurants and chefs in KSA gain access to a transparent, globally recognized framework of evaluation. For diners, it offers something equally important: a trustworthy compass in an ever-expanding dining landscape.
Why it matters
More than a guide, Gault&Millau serves as a cultural observer—documenting shifts in taste, spotlighting rising chefs, and championing the diversity that defines modern dining. Its arrival in Saudi Arabia is more than a launch; it is an invitation for the Kingdom’s culinary voices to be heard on the world stage.
As the scene grows, so too will the stories that Gault&Millau helps bring to light.
WHAT’S NEW |
This December, two of the UAE’s most forward-thinking culinary houses unite for an exclusive dining experience. Nomani, the contemporary Japanese–Korean restaurant at The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah, joins forces with Dubai’s acclaimed Lahkee restaurant. Together, they present Nomani gets Lahkee, a three-day limited-edition menu running from 12 to 14 December 2025. The experience offers diners a rare chance to explore a cross-emirate culinary story filled with innovation and craft.
The collaboration blends Nomani’s modern Japanese–Korean flavours with Lahkee’s inventive Asian dining culture. Both brands share a strong passion for artistry, authenticity, and culinary storytelling. Guests will enjoy four signature Nomani dishes created by Chef Chris and Chef Madhu. These dishes will appear alongside Lahkee’s vibrant à la carte menu, curated by Chef Mary and Chef Mark.
This partnership highlights a growing trend in the UAE. Many chefs and restaurants are joining hands to create short-term menus that merge distinct culinary identities. For three days only, Lahkee will showcase Nomani’s refined flavours next to its own bold interpretations. The result is a unique dining journey that reflects the strengths of both kitchens.
The event follows a first-come, first-served policy due to limited seating. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a table. Dining hours run from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, giving visitors ample time to experience this creative exchange between Sharjah and Dubai.
Renowned for his refined technique and unmistakable love for pistachio, Chef Benoît Detreige has carved a distinguished path in the world of pastry. With nearly two decades of experience across luxury hotels, acclaimed restaurants, and private members’ clubs, Chef Benoît brings a blend of global expertise and French finesse to every creation. In this conversation, he reflects on his journey, his philosophy, and the passion that keeps him inspired every day.
Tell us a bit about your background and how your career began?
I started my career about 18 years ago. I’m originally from France, from a town called Annecy. Over the years, I’ve traveled quite a bit—New York, London—and now I find myself here in Dubai.
What kinds of places have you worked in along the way?
I’ve worked across hotels, restaurants, and private members’ clubs. Each experience added something different to my craft. At the moment, I’m the Corporate Pastry Chef for Rikas and Paris Society International in Dubai.
What’s your favorite ingredient to work with?
I’m really a big fan of pistachio, as many people know. I feel very lucky to be in this region because we have access to what I think might be some of the best pistachios in the world.
What’s your dream in life?
Honestly, I really like my life at the moment. It’s difficult for me to imagine something else. It all depends on the time and place you’re in, and right now I’m very happy.
What advice would you give to young pastry chefs or anyone entering the culinary world?
Work hard and enjoy what you’re doing. And be patient, without patience, you can’t work hard. I think both are very important.
MEET OTHER CHEFS
RESTAURANT IN LEBANON |
Ilayya
A new Lebanese bistro by Rabih Daher
Ilayya is a Lebanese bistro created by Rabih Daher, Founder and CEO of Blueprint Hospitality Management. With decades of hospitality experience across Dubai, Kuwait, Egypt, and the UAE, he brings his expertise and passion for Lebanese cuisine to Ilayya. The concept plans to expand across Dubai and the GCC while staying true to its authentic roots.
A menu rooted in heritage
The menu, developed with Chef Charbel Safi, balances traditional flavors with modern finesse. Each dish reflects Lebanese heritage, from timeless classics to inventive touches, creating a culinary narrative that evokes home, warmth, and shared memories.
An interior that honors craftsmanship
Reine Alemeh’s interior design translates these values into physical space. Intricate marquetry, brass accents, and rich textiles create a dialogue between craftsmanship and contemporary elegance. The space conveys both comfort and sophistication, echoing the heritage it honors.
Branding inspired by the Mediterranean
Branding by Stro’berry Advertising draws from the natural beauty of the Mediterranean. Sunflowers, orange blossoms, and flowing leaves convey radiance and harmony. Soft blues evoke the sea, while earthy tones and delicate motifs appear in tableware and staff uniforms alike.
Refined warmth with modern elegance
Ilayya embodies a refined warmth, capturing the spirit of Lebanese tradition while presenting it with modern grace and timeless sophistication.
Type of Cuisine: Lebanese
Recommended dishes: Hommos caviar, calamari fatteh, beefsteak et frittes, and pistachio fondant
OTHER RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN LEBANON
WHAT’S NEW |
SAUDI FEAST FOOD FESTIVAL: A CULINARY CELEBRATION OF HERITAGE
27 November – 6 December 2025
Riyadh welcomes food lovers to explore traditional Saudi dishes, international flavors, live cooking battles, and immersive cultural experiences
Riyadh is preparing to welcome food lovers from across the Kingdom and beyond as the Saudi Feast Food Festival 2025 kicks off on November 27, running through December 6 at King Saud University. Now in its latest edition, the festival promises to blend tradition, innovation, and international flavors, cementing its place as one of Saudi Arabia’s premier culinary events.
Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture and the Culinary Arts Commission, the festival showcases the Kingdom’s rich culinary heritage through an impressive array of food stalls representing 13 regions. Visitors can sample iconic Saudi dishes, learn age-old cooking techniques, and explore the stories behind every recipe. Over 195 stalls will feature both traditional favorites and contemporary creations, offering a feast for all tastes.
Adding a global touch, the 2025 edition introduces a Thailand Zone, where attendees can experience authentic Southeast Asian street food. The festival also features live cooking competitions, allowing professional and amateur chefs to demonstrate their skills, with winners receiving significant cash prizes.
Beyond food, the festival offers interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. The Theatre Zone hosts live cooking demonstrations, while the Workshops Area provides hands-on classes led by professional chefs. The new Beehive Experience highlights traditional Saudi honey production, combining education with tastings of different honey varieties.
The Saudi Feast Food Festival 2025 promises a vibrant celebration of taste, culture, and creativity, offering a unique opportunity to explore the flavors and traditions of Saudi Arabia like never before.
VEGETARIAN |
SHANKLISH SALAD WITH A SPECIAL BALSAMIC SAUCE
Serves 1 | Preparation time 20mins
INGREDIENTS |
The salad:
- 300g Shanlish
- 300g Tomatoes
- 10g Green onions
- 10g Wild thyme
- 10g Sakura
- 25g Basil
- 30g Blueberry
- 30g Raspberry
The dressing:
- 100g Shanklish
- 100g Olive oil
- 75g Balsamic oil
- Pinch salt
PREPARATION |
The salad:
- Arrange the basil leaves on the bottom of a wide serving platter to create a bed for the salad.
- Carefully slice shanklish balls into halves or quarters.
- Artfully place the sliced shanklish pieces over the basil bed.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and distribute them evenly around the shanklish.
- Gently scatter the blueberries and raspberries over the salad.
- Sprinkle the wild thyme leaves and the thinly sliced spring onions over the assembled salad.
The dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, pour the olive oil and the balsamic vinegar.
- Crumble the shanklish into the liquid mixture.
- Add a small pinch of Salt.
- Vigorously whisk the mixture until the dressing is well-combined, slightly emulsified, and the crumbled shanklish is fully incorporated, making a creamy, flavorful vinaigrette.
PLATING |
- Using a spoon or ladle, drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing generously over the entire salad.
- Finish the presentation by sprinkling the sakura microgreens over the top.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
GET TO KNOW THE CHEF
WHAT’S NEW |
GET READY FOR HORECA RIYADH: A BIGGER, BOLDER CELEBRATION OF HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE
FROM 15 – 17 December 2025
Discover what to expect this year as top chefs, innovators, and industry leaders gather in Riyadh for three days of culinary excellence, business opportunities, and groundbreaking hospitality trends.
Riyadh is gearing up to host one of the region’s most anticipated hospitality events: HORECA Riyadh 2025, taking place from 15–17 December 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center.
Over three dynamic days, industry professionals will converge for inspiration, innovation and transformation. The event will bring together leading chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, suppliers, entrepreneurs and innovators under one roof — offering a powerful platform for networking, business growth and creative exchange.
Visitors can explore more than 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest foodservice equipment, ingredients, packaging, technology, design and hospitality solutions. From breakthrough kitchen tools and bold café concepts to sustainable innovations reshaping the F&B sector — this exhibition offers a comprehensive preview of what’s next in the Saudi market.
Among the event’s highlights are live competitions featuring top local and international talent: the renowned Hospitality Salon Culinaire, barista championships, mocktail and pastry contests — all curated by a judging panel of globally recognised experts, promising a new level of excellence.
Attendees can also look forward to interactive workshops, panel discussions and live demos, providing valuable insights into market trends, culinary advancements and the evolving hospitality landscape in the Kingdom as Saudi Arabia accelerates its tourism and dining-scene ambitions.
The countdown to HORECA Riyadh 2025 has begun, don’t miss this landmark edition!
40+ OF OUR FAVORITE LEBANESE RESTAURANTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Embark on a culinary expedition through the heart of the Middle East, as we explore Lebanese cuisine across the region. This compilation, curated in celebration of Lebanon’s Independence Day, beckons you to indulge in the exquisite tastes and aromas that define Lebanese gastronomy.
EGYPT
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café welcomes guests with refined Lebanese elegance and warm, inviting décor. Soft music and the aroma of pastries create a relaxed, charming ambiance. The café feels like a graceful extension of Beirut’s classic café culture.
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FAYRUZ
Fayruz blends traditional Lebanese sophistication with a polished, upscale setting. Gentle lighting and artistic details give the space a serene, harmonious feel. The restaurant’s ambiance captures the timeless grace of Levantine hospitality.
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TAMARA BISTRO
Tamara Bistro is lively and colorful, offering a modern twist on Lebanese charm. Its vibrant décor and energetic atmosphere make it ideal for social gatherings. The space feels playful, fresh, and full of contemporary Beirut flair.
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TAWLET YVONNE
Tawlet Yvone brings the warmth of Lebanese home cooking into a cozy, rustic setting. Natural materials and handcrafted details give it a nostalgic farmhouse soul. The atmosphere feels welcoming, intimate, and authentically homestyle.
JORDAN
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café in Jordan features refined Lebanese design with a gentle, relaxed tone. Elegant details and soft hues make the space harmonious and inviting. It captures the leisurely sophistication of Beirut’s café tradition.
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FAKHRELDIN
Fakhreldin offers a stately Lebanese dining experience inspired by classic Levantine architecture. The interior exudes heritage, elegance, and dignity. Its serene gardens and refined spaces create an atmosphere of quiet grandeur.
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HABIB BEIRUT
Habib Beirut mixes modern urban style with nostalgic Lebanese touches. Warm lighting and artistic accents create a cozy yet contemporary mood. The restaurant carries the spirited charm of Beirut’s social scene.
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NUR
Nur embraces minimalist sophistication with clean lines and subtle Middle Eastern elegance. The calm ambiance encourages a refined, peaceful dining experience. Every detail feels thoughtful, modern, and beautifully composed.
KUWAIT
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AYAM ZAMAN
Ayam Zaman immerses guests in classic Lebanese nostalgia with vintage décor and warm tones. The ornate details evoke old Beirut’s elegance and charm. The atmosphere feels cultural, expressive, and richly sentimental.
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BABEL
Babel stands out with its dramatic stone architecture and bold design language. The space feels immersive, monumental, and deeply rooted in Levantine identity. Its ambiance is refined, artistic, and unmistakably distinctive.
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café offers a soft, elegant setting rich with signature Lebanese motifs. Gentle music and refined accessories heighten its graceful character. The café feels timeless, polished, and beautifully serene.
LEBANON
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ABD EL WAHAB
Abd El Wahad radiates traditional Lebanese warmth in a lively, rustic environment. Patterned fabrics and vintage details add authentic character. The ambiance is friendly, vibrant, and comfortingly familiar.
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AL FALAMANKI
Al Falamanki recreates old Beirut’s bohemian charm with eclectic décor and garden seating. It feels nostalgic, relaxed, and full of personal touches. The space invites guests to enjoy slow, soulful moments.
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AL HALABI
Al Halabi offers a classic Lebanese experience with welcoming tones and understated elegance. The décor highlights tradition without sacrificing modern comfort. The atmosphere feels warm, generous, and authentically Levantine.
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AL SULTAN BRAHIM
Al Sultan Brahim combines coastal inspiration with sophisticated Lebanese refinement. Bright, airy interiors create a refreshing dining mood. The ambiance feels polished, celebratory, and naturally elegant.
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BABEL
Babel is defined by its sculptural stone architecture and dramatic modern design. The restaurant feels powerful, artistic, and deeply expressive. Its ambiance creates an immersive, contemporary Lebanese experience.
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BEBABEL
Bebabel brings a light, youthful energy with airy colors and modern lines. The space feels bright, social, and effortlessly stylish. It offers a fresh take on contemporary Lebanese dining.
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BURJ AL HAMAM
Burj Al Hamam pairs traditional Lebanese hospitality with clean, refined design. Spacious interiors give a sense of comfort and elegance. The overall atmosphere is lively, polished, and inviting.
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CASINO MHANNA
Casino Mhanna blends coastal serenity with timeless Lebanese sophistication. Wide-open views and soft lighting create a refreshing mood. The ambiance feels relaxed, elegant, and beautifully scenic.
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DIWAN BEIRUT
Diwan Beirut features modern simplicity infused with warm Lebanese accents. The setting is casual but thoughtfully designed. Its atmosphere is approachable, urban, and pleasantly easygoing.
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EM SHERIF
Em Sherif delivers lavish Lebanese opulence with ornate décor and rich detailing. Crystal, fabrics, and dramatic accents create a palace-like atmosphere. The experience feels immersive, grand, and celebratory.
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EM SHERIF CAFÉ
Em Sherif Café offers a softer interpretation of the brand’s elegance with artistic flourishes. The space is chic, calm, and effortlessly refined. It creates a graceful environment ideal for leisurely gatherings.
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FADEL
Fadel embraces countryside charm with bright terraces and lush surroundings. Natural light enhances its peaceful, airy character. The ambiance encourages relaxed, family-style dining.
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ILAYYA BISTRO
Rooted in authenticity and crafted with heart, Ilayya Bistro celebrates the soulful essence of Lebanese cuisine. The menu has been developed in collaboration with Chef Charbel Safi, the group’s Food Consultant, who carefully crafted each dish to strike a perfect balance between pure Lebanese authenticity and contemporary refinement.
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KASR FAKHREDDINE
Kasr Fakhreddine feels like stepping into a historic Lebanese home with stone walls and warm accents. Traditional artifacts add depth and authenticity. The atmosphere is welcoming, heritage-rich, and full of character.
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LAKKIS FARM
Lakkis Farm highlights rural Lebanese simplicity with rustic textures and natural scenery. Outdoor elements enhance its wholesome, grounded ambiance. The experience feels relaxed, peaceful, and rooted in nature.
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LIZA
Liza is known for its exquisite patterned walls and elegant artistic interior. The space blends Parisian sophistication with Lebanese cultural charm. Its atmosphere is chic, bright, and visually captivating.
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L’OS RESTAURANT
L’Os offers a romantic, serene retreat surrounded by stone architecture and greenery. Soft lighting contributes to its intimate charm. The ambiance feels timeless, peaceful, and deeply inviting.
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LORIS
Loris combines vintage influences with playful, modern colors. The décor creates a vibrant, youthful Lebanese spirit. The overall mood is lively, eclectic, and full of personality.
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MOUNIR
Nestled in Broumana’s pine and oak forest, Mounir, a four-decade-old restaurant founded by Mounir Fadel, offers a panoramic Mediterranean view, private vineyard, gardens, and waterfalls, embodying excellence in Lebanese cuisine with a foundation of nature and authentic hospitality.
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NASMA
Nasma features a fresh, contemporary Lebanese style with soft, clean design. Light colors enhance its breezy, calming character. The space feels modern, uplifting, and soothing.
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SUFRA
Sufra reflects Lebanese heritage with its courtyard style and rustic textures. Vintage tiles and wooden elements add nostalgic warmth. The atmosphere feels cultural, comforting, and thoughtfully traditional.
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TALLET NASR
Tallet Nasr offers a relaxed mountain charm with simple, homey décor. Fresh air and natural views elevate its comforting character. The space feels casual, welcoming, and pleasantly rustic.
OMAN
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EM SHERIF
Em Sherif in Oman combines luxurious detailing with the brand’s signature refinement. Soft lighting and ornate accents shape an elegant dining atmosphere. The space feels grand, graceful, and distinctly Lebanese.
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MISK
Misk blends modern Gulf minimalism with subtle Levantine touches. The clean design creates a serene, polished mood. The restaurant feels contemporary, balanced, and refreshingly calm.
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ZAHR EL LAYMOUN
Zahr El Laymoun features bright colors and a garden-like aesthetic. Fresh elements give it a cheerful and uplifting feeling. The ambiance is relaxing, wholesome, and filled with Levantine freshness.
QATAR
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AL FALAMANKI
Al Falamanki brings nostalgic Lebanese charm with vintage décor and lush outdoor areas. The space feels warm, eclectic, and reminiscent of old Beirut. Its atmosphere is laid-back, homey, and full of personality.
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BURJ AL-HAMAM
Burj Al Hamam pairs Lebanese elegance with a bright, airy interior. Classic design details create a refined and welcoming environment. The restaurant feels polished, calm, and ideal for gatherings.
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café in Qatar combines refined Lebanese motifs with a soft café ambiance. The décor feels graceful, delicate, and beautifully balanced. The atmosphere is serene, stylish, and comfortably sophisticated.
UAE
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BEIRUT SUR MER
Beirut Sur Mer evokes coastal Lebanese charm with light woods and breezy colors. The ambiance feels fresh, uplifting, and seaside-inspired. It creates an elegant yet relaxed dining mood.
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CAFE BEIRUT
Café Beirut captures old Lebanese café nostalgia with retro photos and warm décor. The setting is lively, social, and full of cultural character. It radiates the spirit of Beirut’s classic meeting spots.
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café in the UAE blends elegance with a calm, minimalist café feel. Artistic details enrich the space with subtle sophistication. The ambiance feels refined, warm, and effortlessly inviting.
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AL FALAMANKI
Al Falamanki maintains its signature homey charm with nostalgic décor and greenery. Cushioned seating and relaxed corners create an inviting atmosphere. The restaurant feels cozy, bohemian, and authentically Lebanese.
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GRAND BEIRUT
Grand Beirut shines with mosaic-inspired design and lively Mediterranean colors. The space feels vibrant, artistic, and visually expressive. Its ambiance is dynamic, cheerful, and full of personality.
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HABIB BEIRUT
Habib Beirut blends modern elegance with Lebanese cultural accents. Its atmosphere is stylish, warm, and comfortably lively. The space reflects the contemporary spirit of Beirut’s dining scene.
SAUDI ARABIA
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AL FALAMANKI
Al Falamanki Riyadh offers lush greenery and nostalgic Lebanese touches. The setting feels relaxed, warm, and naturally inviting. It carries the spirit of a cozy Beirut garden café.
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BETMOON
Betmoon presents a modern aesthetic with artistic Levantine undertones. Sleek lines and soft lighting create a chic, intimate setting. The ambiance feels stylish, contemporary, and elegantly composed.
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BURJ AL HAMAM
Burj el Hamam Jeddah offers coastal charm with clean, elegant interiors. The open spaces feel refreshing and sophisticated. Its ambiance is warm, polished, and beautifully uplifting.
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DAYATNA
Dayatna brings homestyle Lebanese warmth with rustic materials and earthy tones. The setting feels comfortable, welcoming, and family-friendly. Its atmosphere is rooted in tradition and simple generosity.
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EM SHERIF CAFE
Em Sherif Café in Riyadh showcases graceful Lebanese refinement in a soft café format. Elegant details and gentle colors create a serene mood. The space feels polished, calm, and quietly luxurious.
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ENAB BEIRUT
Enab Beirut Khoubar bursts with colorful Lebanese nostalgia and handcrafted décor. The interior feels cheerful, intimate, and full of identity. Its atmosphere is cultural, vibrant, and warmly expressive.
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KARAM BEIRUT
Karam Beirut Riyadh presents classic Lebanese dining in a refined, elegant space. Bright interiors contribute to its timeless appeal. The ambiance feels comfortable, polished, and gracefully traditional.
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MLLE
Mlle Riyadh has a chic, feminine aesthetic with plush textures and artistic touches. The décor creates a fashionable and engaging environment. The overall mood feels stylish, elegant, and contemporary.
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NIYYALI
Niyyali Jeddah features modern coastal Lebanese charm with light, airy design. The setting feels stylish, refreshing, and thoughtfully arranged. Its ambiance is calm, scenic, and sophisticated.
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OVUN BISTRO
Ovun Bistro blends Mediterranean freshness with contemporary bistro design. Airy lighting and modern details shape an inviting energy. The ambiance is social, bright, and stylishly relaxed.
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SERAY
Seray Riyadh blends refined Lebanese details with modern architectural elegance. Soft lighting enhances its polished, upscale feel. The atmosphere is serene, sophisticated, and beautifully composed.
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SHABABIK
Shahabik Riyadh bursts with bold colors and lively, expressive décor. The energy is youthful, dynamic, and vibrant. Its atmosphere feels playful, engaging, and full of personality.
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VILLA FAYROUZ
Villa Fayrouz Riyadh highlights Mediterranean charm with soothing blue accents and soft textures. The space feels calm, elegant, and warmly inviting. Its ambiance blends grace with relaxed sophistication.
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WARD
Ward features floral-inspired design elements that create a romantic, gentle mood. Soft lighting and delicate colors enhance its serene ambiance. The space feels peaceful, elegant, and warmly welcoming.
Other suggested places worth exploring
Chef Bayan Darwish has become a standout figure in the culinary world, admired not only for his flavorful creations but also for the heart and purpose he brings to every dish. In this exclusive Q&A, he opens up about his favorite ingredients, the values that guide him, and the big dreams he hopes to bring to life.
1. Tell us about your culinary journey
Ever since I was young, I loved cooking. People used to tell me I would become a chef one day. When I grew up, I realized that cooking truly is my passion, something I genuinely love, and, thank God, I ended up becoming a chef.
2. What is your favorite ingredient to use?
My favorite ingredient is olive oil. It has a wonderful flavor, and it also makes you feel like you’re eating something healthy, so you can enjoy your food with a clear conscience. I also love working with cherry tomatoes. Their flavor is delicious, and they make any plate look beautiful when presented.
3. What is your “dream life” or your ultimate professional goal?
My dream is a big one: I want to help many people by cooking for those in need. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of doing, and I hope I can make it happen one day.
4. What is your basic principle or motto for your work?
The principle I live by is: “What you do is what you get.” Whatever you put out into the world will come back to you.
5. Do you have any upcoming projects?
I have many projects currently in the works, but I can’t reveal them just yet. Stay tuned, there’s more to come, God willing.
MEET OTHER CHEFS
WHAT’S NEW |
BUDDHA-BAR UNVEILS ITS FIRST HOTEL AND FLOATING RESIDENCES IN DUBAI
From immersive hotel design to underwater bedrooms and a beachfront social hub, the iconic brand debuts a landmark destination set to open in 2027
Dubai is set to welcome a new symbol of luxury and lifestyle with the unveiling of Buddha-Bar Hotel and Floating Residences by Buddha-Bar. It is an ambitious AED 3 billion project that will redefine waterfront living on The World Islands. The development, managed and represented exclusively by Yieldhaüs, marks the first time the globally renowned Buddha-Bar brand brings its immersive world of music, design, and gastronomy to an island setting.
At the heart of the project lies the region’s first Buddha-Bar Hotel, featuring 162 keys — including an entire floor of branded residences. Guests can expect a rich blend of Far Eastern elegance and contemporary sophistication. The experience includes curated soundscapes, Pacific Rim-inspired dining, and an indulgent spa offering Eastern wellness rituals and modern treatments.
Beyond the hotel, the concept takes to the water with 24 exclusive Floating Residences by Buddha-Bar. Each three-level residence offers 4,000 square feet of serene, sea-level living. Rooftop decks feature jacuzzis and dining lounges. Underwater bedrooms are framed by coral gardens. Optional Bentley Home furnishings and refined natural materials add to the understated opulence. The result is a collection of sanctuaries that merge design and nature.
Completing the experience is Buddha-Bar Beach, poised to become the social heartbeat of The World Islands. The all-day restaurant, lounge, and beach club will host sunrise yoga, beachside brunches, and sunset sessions by world-class DJs. These experiences will seamlessly transition into moonlit celebrations.
Set for completion in 2027, this groundbreaking destination promises to transport guests into a new dimension of sensory luxury. Every detail hums to the rhythm of Buddha-Bar.
