La Crêperie

5 Exquisite Restaurant Interiors in Beirut

Razan Mneimneh

To most Beirutis, finding a decent place to eat within a close proximity is a piece of cake. Beirut has enough restaurants and cafés that cater to every cuisine and atmosphere for a lifetime. But what if we wanted to spice it up a notch and go somewhere where both the food and the restaurant itself are awe-inspiring?

Without further ado, here’s a list of five places in and close to Beirut guaranteed to satisfy both your sight and taste buds.

Society Bistro (https://www.facebook.com/SocietyBistro/)

Located on the ground floor of Saifi Suites, Society hits the nail on the head with interior décor. Not only do the chandeliers oscillate a starry white night, but what resemble gold cymbals fill the ceiling with radiance. Designed by Gregory Gatserelia, the gold walls contrast perfectly with the brown and maroon leather seats, adding to its romantic ambience all the more.

  • The image depicts a modern restaurant interior featuring a unique ceiling design with large, circular golden discs that resemble leaves. The lighting is soft and ambient, creating an inviting atmosphere. Below the ceiling, elegant dining tables are arranged, each set with fine tableware and wine glasses. The walls are a combination of warm wood and more contemporary elements, including a vivid piece of artwork in the background. The overall design blends sophistication with a creative flair, making it a stylish dining space.
    Society Bistro
  • The image depicts a modern restaurant interior featuring a sophisticated design. The ceiling has unique, circular hanging elements that create visual interest. The walls are made of warm wood, and there is a prominent artwork displayed, likely a large collage or mural. The seating consists of tables set with elegant tableware, and the chairs have a contemporary style. A display stand in the center showcases glassware and other dining items, enhancing the overall upscale ambiance of the space. The lighting is soft and inviting, contributing to a cozy yet stylish atmosphere.

“We just wanted it to resemble a casual brassier,” said Society’s manager commenting on the interior. “You will see brass similar to the one in the restaurant anywhere in Paris.”

Em Sherif (http://www.emsherif.com)

Popular for its mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes and the luxurious dining experience, Em Sherif offers a unique escape from the hustling and bustling streets of Beirut. The restaurant is meticulously decorated with a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, all of which aid at crafting an antique oriental masterpiece. Book a table in advance, and prepare to be pampered like royalty in your mansion for a night.

  • The image features a beautifully set dining table in an elegant restaurant. The table is round and adorned with fine china, glassware, and silverware, all meticulously arranged. White napkins are elegantly folded, and there are golden accents, including decorative elements. Surrounding the table are stylish black chairs. In the background, the restaurant features ornate architectural details, including intricate designs on the walls and a decorative railing on an upper level. The overall ambiance appears luxurious and inviting.
    Em Sherif
  • The image depicts an elegantly designed restaurant interior. The walls are painted in soft blue tones, complemented by ornate decorations. Large, arched windows feature intricate designs, allowing light to filter in. A mirror with a decorative frame adds depth to the space. The seating consists of a mix of plush sofas and chairs in contrasting colors, with rich fabrics and patterns. The dining tables are set with fine tableware, and the overall ambiance is warm and inviting, enhanced by soft lighting fixtures hanging from the ceiling. The decor suggests a blend of modern and traditional styles, creating a unique dining atmosphere.

Liza (http://www.lizabeirut.com)

In an exceptional attempt at blending a mid-century theme with that of a dreamy Moorish interior, LIZA Beirut delivers brilliance. It’s hard to imagine anyone could have possibly visited this place just for a good meal; for the intricately selected surroundings make it difficult to maintain a conversation. Walls covered by jungle and city themed wallpaper encompass the restaurant, which happens to be a Lebanese home with three distinct rooms.

  • The image features a stylish dining area with a tropical theme. The walls are adorned with lush, green palm leaf wallpaper, creating a vibrant, leafy atmosphere. The room is brightly lit by natural light coming through large windows, which are adorned with woven shades. Central to the space is a circular dining table surrounded by modern, leather chairs. The table is elegantly set with plates and glassware, suggesting an inviting dining experience. Hanging above are unique, large pendant lights made of woven materials, adding a touch of warmth and texture. Decorative mirrors and circular wall art complement the overall design, while potted plants bring a bit of nature indoors. The flooring features a bold, geometric pattern, enhancing the contemporary feel of the space.
    Liza
  • The image depicts an elegant restaurant interior characterized by intricate architecture. Large, arched windows and mirrors create a spacious and bright atmosphere. The decor features leafy patterns on the walls, adding a touch of nature to the space. Stylish pendant lights made of copper hang from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the dining area. A woman dressed in a white outfit stands near an intricately designed entrance, enhancing the sophisticated ambiance of the setting. Tables are arranged neatly, suggesting a welcoming dining experience.

Brass (https://www.facebook.com/brassbeirut)

Tucked away in the heart of Ashrafieh lies Brass, a bistro that’s repeatedly been called a “hidden gem” by Locals. The bar/resto, resembling French brasseries, delivers a classy yet cozy ambiance; making it just the place to be on a relaxing night out.

“The interior gives you a smooth vibe while the candles add a warm appearance,” said Lora Mouammer, Brass’ Marketing Coordinator commenting on the restaurant. “The lights are dim and there’s this cozy feeling that makes people feel as if they’re at home drinking wine while having dinner.”

La Crêperie (http://www.lacreperie.restaurant)

Though this restaurant is not exactly in Beirut, it is definitely worth the trip. Upon entering La Crêperie, you’re welcomed by sky-high olive trees on your right following an elongated pathway. The breathtaking view you get of Jouneih’s sparkling blue harbor goes hand in hand with the elegant décor, and the velvet pink and blue chairs add just the right feminine touch.

The image depicts a beautifully designed restaurant interior with large, arched windows that offer a stunning view of the water and distant hills. The space features elegant columns and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The tables are set with fine dining ware, and the chairs are adorned in a mix of pastel colors, adding a chic touch. The overall atmosphere is inviting and luxurious, with a bright and airy feel due to the abundant natural light flowing in from the windows.
La Crêperie
Photo: Marco Pinarelli

Maggy Monsef, the interior decorator of la Creperie, said she was “inspired by Mediterranean nature” when decorating the restaurant while retaining its historic aura. “I [was inspired] by the region’s pastel colors, since La Crêperie stands on this unique rocky promontory, above one of the most beautiful bays in Lebanon,” Monsef said. She goes on to explain that she chose to tell a story through each of the rooms in the house, as if the visitor was strolling through multiple gardens.

  • The image depicts a stylish and elegant restaurant interior. The walls are adorned with patterned wallpaper, and the space features large windows that allow natural light to flood in, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. The dining area consists of several round and square tables, each set with fine dining tableware, including glasses and utensils. The chairs are a mix of solid colors and patterned upholstery, contributing to a refined yet cozy feel. A unique chandelier hangs from the ceiling, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall decor. The light color palette, combined with tasteful furnishings, creates a calm and pleasant dining environment.
  • The image features a well-decorated interior space, likely a dining area or restaurant. One side shows a pale blue wall adorned with framed artworks depicting butterflies, arranged in a grid. Adjacent to this, there is a column painted in a light marble texture, which supports the ceiling. The column leads to another wall that is covered in a patterned wallpaper featuring swans and decorative foliage. The overall atmosphere appears elegant and inviting, with soft lighting and a blend of stylish furnishings in the background, suggesting a refined dining experience.

La Crêperie almost feels like a real-life princess castle, with framed butterflies displayed on walls and white marble tables scattered across the stone house.

Em Sherif