From Aubrac to Marly’s: Discover Beirut’s Latest Culinary Gems
By Malak Khaled
In 2024, Beirut cemented its reputation as a hub for culinary innovation and exceptional dining experiences. From Italian elegance to Japanese sophistication and beyond, here are the standout new venues elevating the city’s fine dining landscape this season.
Amavi: A Slice of Italian Charm in Achrafieh
Amavi brought the essence of Italy to the heart of Achrafieh earlier this year. This stylish eatery radiates Mediterranean warmth with its lemon trees and lavish seating, inviting guests to enjoy their time. The dark interiors create an intimate atmosphere, perfectly complementing the authentic Italian menu.
You can start with delicate carpaccio before indulging in wood-fired pizzas that transport you straight to Italy. End your meal with signature desserts like limoncello tiramisu and creamy gelato for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Aubrac: An Oasis of Tranquility in Naccache
Located in Naccache, on the outskirts of Beirut, Aubrac offers an inviting escape from the city’s hustle, designed with serenity in mind. The show kitchen and elegant sculpted Avocatus Quartzite bar set the tone for an immersive dining experience.
The space features calming olive-green hues, with plush leather seating and soft lighting, creating a soothing atmosphere. Carefully curated finishes, from tan saddle leather chairs to custom-painted Italian plates, reflect the restaurant’s attention to detail.
The menu draws inspiration from both land and sea, with dishes like smoky charcoal-grilled delicacies and signature oyster platters offering guests a taste of refined cuisine. Aubrac’s ambiance is one of understated luxury, where every design choice complements the thoughtfully crafted menu.
Marly’s: Vintage Elegance Meets Contemporary Flair
Nestled in Beirut’s upscale Achrafieh district, Marly’s stands as a sophisticated bar lounge that effortlessly marries vintage charm with contemporary allure. The design features dark-paneled walls that evoke timeless elegance, with carefully curated details such as a mirrored bar and striking light fixtures, infusing the space with a touch of glamour.
A Pierre Frey tapestry wall adds depth and artistry, enhancing the atmosphere with richness.
Glass and metal partitions lead to a cozy winter garden and a whimsical alfresco dining area, blending both intimacy and openness in the overall design.
Whether you’re savoring a seafood dish like lobster crab croquettes or indulging in a comforting katsu sando, Marly’s serves up a menu that pairs well with its refined atmosphere—ideal for intimate gatherings or an evening out.
Kii Beirut: Nouvelle Cuisine in Saifi
Discover the essence of nouvelle cuisine at Kii Beirut, located in the vibrant district of Gemmayzeh. This newly opened venue offers a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere, with curated art and pastel tones that create a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Guests can savor a modern take on traditional flavors paired with an exotic range of cocktails. Highlights include an aperitivo experience featuring unlimited prosecco, wine, and charcuterie from 5 to 8:30 PM. With a dance floor and an ambiance that encourages indulgence, Kii Beirut is a destination for both food and revelry.
Ô Sake: Japanese Excellence in Mar Mikhael
Ô Sake brings a fresh wave of Japanese sophistication to the vibrant Mar Mikhael neighborhood. This chic venue brings together traditional Japanese culinary artistry with modern flair, offering an immersive dining experience that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in the country’s rich gastronomic culture.
The stylish, minimalist interior is designed to reflect the balance between elegance and energy, with sleek lines, soft lighting, and a harmonious blend of natural materials.
The space offers a warm yet dynamic atmosphere that draws in food lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. The bar serves up expertly crafted sake cocktails, elevating the flavors of the expertly curated sushi rolls and signature dishes like salmon tartare salad and crispy shrimp tempura.
This season’s new openings—from Aubrac’s captivating sea-and-land-inspired menu to Ô Sake’s Japanese flair—highlight Beirut’s ever-evolving fine dining scene. The city offers an array of experiences that cater to all palates and tastes.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or a lively night out, Beirut has something extraordinary to offer this season.
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