Grand Hyatt hotels are globally renowned for celebrating the iconic in the smallest of details that make for magnificent, memorable moments. Right here in K-town, Grand Hyatt Kuwait has already been making waves even before its highly anticipated opening last month. Our social feeds are abuzz with posts from the hotel’s spectacular grounds and restaurants, and with two convenient access points from the high-end 360 Mall extension, it’s easy to understand why. Everybody wants to be at Grand Hyatt Kuwait, and everybody wants to sample the hotel’s carefully curated dining experiences.

Carving a place for itself within the rich culinary landscape of what has affectionately been named the food capital of the Middle East, Grand Hyatt Kuwait features three standalone lifestyle dining venues, Liberté, a Modern Brasserie; ‘Stambul, a theatrical Turkish dining experience; and MEI LI, (Mandarin for “Beautiful”) a fine dining Pan Asian restaurant slated to open early next year, as well as the highly immersive lobby situated Saheel Lounge.

The carefully curated dining experiences to be had at Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s restaurants have been designed to take guests on a delightful global culinary tour that begins in Kuwait at the dramatic Saheel Lounge, followed by a journey to Liberté to experience Brasserie culture at its finest, crossing over to the Ottoman ‘Stambul where food is celebrated with fanfare, and finally traversing through the ancient Silk Road to arrive in the modern east at MEI LI.

A Celebration of art and heritage at Saheel Lounge
Stepping into the lobby-situated Saheel Lounge is a transcendent experience. The space is a showcase of luxury and distinctive contemporary art paying tribute to Kuwait’s heritage of pearl diving, and dhow explorations. Even the nation’s equestrian passion is celebrated through the effortless, free flowing, marble equine sculpture that appears almost like a desert mirage, a truly unmissable sight. Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s elegant and contemporary Saheel Lounge is indeed the heart of the hotel, where guests can work and socialize throughout the day.

Saheel Lounge is a meeting place to see and be seen. Offering a seamless transition from day to night, this dynamic yet captivating space is truly immersive – creating an ambiance that is refined yet unassuming. Boasting sand-inspired tones, luxury furnishings, and wispy, weightless white drapery across the perimeter of the space, the distinctive Saheel Lounge offers the perfect social setting for conversations that enrich the soul. Airy and filled with light, the space envelopes each of the senses, whether it be through the beautiful art on the walls or the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

A dramatic backdrop of breathtaking works of art celebrating Kuwait and the region sets the tone for elegant meetings, casually socializing or simply relaxing in style. Continuing the interior design’s homage to Middle Eastern culture, wall panels are clad in white, geometric patterns, while floating, orbital shapes from the stunningly oversized mobile sculpture add a contemporary air to the lobby lounge space. But perhaps what we find to be the most riveting detail is how a bespoke collection of 2000 books holds its prideful place in the Saheel Lounge Library.
Whether guests are seeking an indulgent afternoon tea with friends, meet a colleague over coffee, or relax in the evening with family, Saheel Lounge is a convenient and dynamic space to unwind, connect, relax and engage. Saheel Lounge serves exceptional drinks, light meals, and desserts all day long.

Liberté, where everyone is free to be
Next up on our culinary journey at Grand Hyatt Kuwait is Liberté, a destination offering an immersive culinary experience that lies at the intersection of classicism and modernity where every bite is adorned with an aftertaste of freedom. Liberté is Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s modern brasserie and what we consider to be its most fabulous culinary addition, a natural extension to the iconic hotel’s vow for grandeur.

With direct access to 360 Mall’s light-filled new extension, hotel residents and mall dwellers alike are treated to an aesthetic feast that calms the mind and awakens the soul, and a reimagined brasserie menu that stops time in its tracks as guests ponder on the fused flavors of culinary innovation.

Notwithstanding the classic roots of the traditional brasserie, Liberté puts a unique modern twist on the experience, challenging its guests’ expectations and invigorating their senses. Instead of abandoning the old to make way for the new, Liberté inspires modernity from classicism, creating a stylistic melting pot where boundaries are blurred and a new, reimagined identity prevails.

Designed by abConcept, a design studio which seeks to “create compelling interior environments that make people feel present in the moment,” Liberté is bathed in the wholesome inclusivity of the feminine energy. From round lines and flowing designs to floral installations and the warmth of the brasserie’s colors – pinks, blues, and grays, the space extends a welcoming embrace to all and an invitation to stray away from the ordinary.

Among the primary visual features which encapsulate Liberté’s modern classicism is the Art Deco undertone of the brand identity. Beyond the brasserie’s interior design, this appears everywhere from the product packaging to the backdrop posters decorating the space.

The casual-chic, laid-back sophistication of Liberté is particularly what inspires a sense of freedom to be present, real, and open, making for the perfect place to share a genuine connection and weave memorable moments.
Liberté’s aesthetic splendor is easily matched with the culinary experience it offers. From breakfast that is infused with the signature warmth of the feminine energy to a reimagined brasserie cuisine that’s spiced with creativity and innovation, and even pastries and cakes which smell of pure bliss, Liberté’s guests are up for a real treat regardless of their choices.

Nourishing the soul at ‘STAMBUL Restaurant
With its name signifying loyalty, unity and community, ‘Stambul is positioned as Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s all-day dining venue with good reason. At ‘Stambul, Turkish food serves a purpose that goes beyond just nourishment. It is intended to nourish the soul as well, invoking a sense of a comfort and happiness by making core ingredients shine on a plate. Paying heed to the importance of great produce in Turkish cooking, Grand Hyatt Kuwait delivers on authenticity for the culinary experience promised with ‘Stambul.

The Turkish food-hall and dining destination showcases the vibrancy and vitality of Turkey and its many culinary delights. Taking inspiration from the energetic and dynamic streets and bazaars of Istanbul, the concept delivers the true spirit of a city that is diverse and well loved by diners in Kuwait. A city that has been fought for and has such great importance since the early days of civilization. The fact that the ‘Stambul straddles two continents wasn’t its only attraction. It was also the final stage of the legendary Silk Road linking Asia with Europe which gave the city a cultural diversity that it retains to this day. We love how Grand Hyatt Kuwait has chosen to adopt how Istanbul is pronounced by its locals, ‘Stambul. This is a purposeful ode to a city that is best appreciated through the eyes of its insiders.

Fusing modern with elements of the traditional, ‘Stambul celebrates the beauty and craft of the country through a rich yet contemporary design style, diverse food offering and service that is characterful and engaging. ‘Stambul immerses guests into Turkish culture and cuisine through its many offerings, creating a sense of escape whether it be for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. No matter the duration, ‘Stambul is unforgettable, as the Food Hall-inspired design of the space is always abuzz with action at the theatrical kitchens and food stations. Diners will instantly feel that they’ve stepped into a vibrant, Turkish food bazaar complete with stunningly prepared Turkish, Mediterranean and Ottoman recipes infused with a modern, lighter attitude. The talented team at ‘Stambul fire up their clay ovens early in the morning, and prepare delicious fare to be enjoyed over the fiery charcoal grill or dedicated spit. Everything is made by hand, from the smoky kebabs to oven cooked meat, chicken, fish, and vegetarian dishes to pastries and flatbreads. From fragrant salads, mezze, grilled seafood, food hall plates, kebabs and Turkish specialties to stunning desserts and boutique made delights, ‘Stambul is a thoroughly modern Turkish showcase.

A Pan-Asian Foray at MEI LI (Opening early 2023)
Stepping towards the right of Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s Saheel Lounge is the spectacular MEI LI. The hotel’s specialty restaurant celebrates contemporary Pan Asian cuisine and hospitaly, with flavor profiles rooted in tradition. MEI LI, meaning “beautiful and full of grace” in Mandarin, perfectly encapsulates the essence of Grand Hyatt Kuwait’s signature Pan Asian restaurant. Everything from the stunning interiors, the innovative food presentation to the engaging service style is considered, beautiful, and done with grace.

MEI LI’s menu illustrates a fresh take on the most loved dishes from Pan Asian cuisine – modernizing them in format, presentation, and ingredients. Incorporating uniquely crafted experiences such as a dedicated tea bar, celebrating artisanal traditions such as the art of dim sum making and rituals behind the service of Peking duck, MEI LI brings Asian culture to modern life through differentiated presentations styles and a sleek aesthetic. With something for everyone, MEI LI’s menu pushes the boundaries to include long time favorites and lighter options.

Innovative, modern and creative, MEI LI’s beautiful interior fuses traditional Asian elements with new-age design styles, presenting an ambiance that is elevated and refined, yet fun and vibrant – something to be enjoyed no matter the day or occasion. With interiors inspired by revered designers such as Shanghai Tang and Vivian Tam, MEI LI puts Asian design at the forefront. Iconic shades signifying Asian vibrancy and values like deep vivid reds, royal blues and regal grays command the eye, and striking details like chic, hand blown glass orbs, marble features and hand-made silk panels decorate the space and celebrate Asian history, architecture, ideals, and society.

In order to constantly differentiate itself from the rest, MEI LI’s space is actually comprised of multiple zones, each set with a distinct dining mood in mind. Whether it be MEI LI’s lounge menu that ensures flexibility – perfect for an intimate dinner – or the integration of live stations designed to enrich the diner’s experience, MEI LI’s service style is engaging, storytelling and charismatic.

Located in Grand Hyatt Kuwait, but operated to feel like an independent restaurant, MEI LI adds a robust and differentiated offering to Kuwait’s dining landscape. Created with today’s guest in mind, the concept is energetic, lively and chic – immersing guests in experiences that are memorable and captivating time and time again. MEI LI is a modern and contemporary – ensuring that this all-new destination will stand the test of time and quickly become a firm favorite amongst local gourmands.

For more on Grand Hyatt Kuwait, please visit the website www.grandhyattkuwait.com and follow the hotel’s latest on social media @GrandHyattKuwait. For the latest on Liberté, ‘Stambul and MEI LI, follow @libertekw, @Stambulkw and @Mei_likw on Instagram. Photography by Anthony Parkinson.