Much-loved street food eatery Allo Beirut is launching a brand-new concept, Liban, at Time Out Market Dubai.
Founder Fadi Haider tells us why nostalgia is key in his cooking.
How long have you been in Dubai?
Thirty years.
Why did you first set up a restaurant?
My passion is fishing, and opening a seafood restaurant was the beginning of my journey in the hospitality industry. If I hadn’t followed this path, I would probably be dealing in antiques or be an interior designing.
Which Allo Beirut dishes do people love the most?
Our Lebanese sandwiches are the most popular – they’re very authentic and remind diners of meals back home in Lebanon.
What can we look forward to at the market?
We’re launching Liban by Allo Beirut so we can bring the dishes that we loved growing up to Dubai. Nostalgia is our priority with Liban, not innovation.
Where do you source your ingredients?
We take care to use reputable Lebanese suppliers. Plus a few of our ingredients – such as kishk and zaatar – are sourced from Lebanon. We aim to bring flavours from Lebanon to Dubai through the best available ingredients and most authentic recipes.
Who are your culinary influences?
Restaurants in Lebanon like Barbar, Faisel (a famous manakish bakery in Beirut), Joseph (known for shawarma) are just a few.
What’s the golden rule in your kitchen?
Cleanliness, hygiene, great raw material and consistency.
What’s your single favourite thing to eat in the whole world?
Where can we find you on your day off?
I like to visit the fish market.
Do you have a sweet tooth?
I’m Lebanese. I totally do.
What’s the next big food trend?
Street food at an affordable price in a great setting. Value is a big driver in how people choose what to eat, and why.
Whet your appetite? For everything you need to know about Time Out Market Dubai, click here.
