A constantly adapting menu, Babel’s ethos is to conform to the cultures, habits and most importantly, the ingredients of the area they inhabit. At heart, Babel serves up authentic Lebanese delicacies and forever exudes with the beauty of Lebanon’s culture.
Since its conception in 2009, Babel has been treating diners to culinary adventures inspired by both land and sea. With their three wonderfully diverse locations in Lebanon, Babel’s first expansion abroad has given us a delicious treat – our very own Kuwait location. For those that make Babel their first destination on a trip to Lebanon, rest assured that you can now fully enjoy this exquisite Lebanese experience right here in Kuwait. We sat with Babel’s General Manager, Jad Mounzer to learn more about this fabulous culinary concept.
Babel’s grand waterfront location in Marina World boasts stunning views and a variety of foods that honor Kuwait’s offerings with Lebanon’s finest flavors. It’s worth mentioning that you’re better off making a reservation beforehand. As you walk in, you find yourself greeted by the staff and ushered to your seat. Take a moment to really look around the space as you walk through it and note the stunning olive tree in the middle – Mr. Jad informed us that the tree is around 1,000-years-old and has been rooted in this location to add to the authenticity of the Babel experience. Entirely custom-built, Babel’s Kuwait location is made to dazzle the diner without cluttering the space. With stunning views of Kuwait’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf, you’ll surely enjoy your visit.
“The Babel concept is built on three pillars: The first is the design and as you can see it’s built to give a sense of grandeur,” Mr. Jad started, “Second is the menu and cuisine, which is progressive Lebanese. And third is the service we offer as it is one that cares for the guest and gives off a sense of warmth and coziness.” While there are differences in menu offerings dependent on the location, Mr. Jad assured us that there are staples. Such dishes are the Nayeh Moutammameh, which is the traditional raw meat but served as individual portions encased in crushed nuts and seeds; Tabbouleht El Bahar, a traditional tabbouleh salad with the addition of shrimp and ginger; and lastly the Maajoua, which is a kebab filled with cheese and nuts.
But why the diversity in menu items and offerings depending on each location? “Food should belong to the environment it is served at,” Mr. Jad explained, “The environment and culture are always a reflection of the food we eat and Babel mirrors that culture.” Because Kuwait enjoys the geographic markers of land and sea, diners are treated to the best of both with Babel. Their selection of grills and delicious fish will surely be a hit with everyone – they certainly were with us! And because we can never visit a restaurant without sampling a dessert of sorts, may we suggest that you never walk away from Babel without having tried their Ashta bel Ashta. A combination of fresh cream ice-cream topped with more fresh cream and flower jam – trust us, this one is NOT to be missed! Before we ended our visit, we had to ask Mr. Jad about the name – why Babel? “It is told that the people of Babel didn’t speak to one another because of their differences, but the one language they all understood and came together for was food,” he smiled.
Babel Kuwait is located in Marina World on Gulf Road facing Marina Waves. For more information about Babel, follow them on Facebook and Instagram @BabelKuwait.
