CHIC Eats

Lebanese culture is synonymous with flavoursome food partnered with instrumental music to create a celebration of life. Step into Babel at the striking St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl-Qatar, and you’ll be immersed in an authentic Lebanese experience with added sophistication and elegance. Dazzling décor featuring large, mirrored walls with a scattering of marbled ornaments and potted greenery creates a chic and spacious setting perfect for the fine-dining experience that awaits.

On arrival, we were warmly greeted and escorted to our table in the stylish, outdoor seating area that offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the marina. Alain, the friendly and attentive manager, passionately explained that the concept of Babel is to take traditional Lebanese food and elevate it to a more contemporary, refined level utilising the finest ingredients. As soon as the cold mezze plates were placed in front of us, it was evident that we were about to experience Lebanese cuisine like never before. The familiar sight of finely diced parsley signified the arrival of Babel’s take on the well-known Lebanese salad, Tabboulet El Bahar. However, as the name suggests, this signature dish wasn’t your ordinary tabbouleh; plump, flavourful shrimp and undertones of ginger proved to be outstanding additions. The Shrimp Salad highlighted how a skilful chef armed with carefully sourced produce can work wonders. An assortment of fresh tomatoes, Indian onions and hearty shrimp were enveloped by a delectable soy and coriander dressing with a depth of flavour beyond what I’ve previously tasted. Next up was a wonderfully balanced bowl of bulgur wheat named Majroucheh. The earthy grains were expertly prepared, retaining a fluffy yet chewy consistency; scatterings of pumpkin and pomegranate seeds gifted a satisfying crunch, and drizzles of syrupy molasses laced this dish with a pleasurable amount of sweetness.