Byblos Sur Mer

Byblos Sur Mer stands as the award-winning Lebanese dining destination within the iconic InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Located along the prestigious King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street in the Al Bateen area, this celebrated restaurant has carved a reputation for offering one of the most authentic Lebanese culinary experiences in the capital. From its sleek, contemporary interiors spread across two levels to its serene marina-facing terrace, Byblos Sur Mer provides a backdrop that complements its exquisite menu. The name itself, evoking the ancient Phoenician port city of Byblos, speaks to the deep cultural roots and time-honored culinary traditions that the kitchen team brings to every plate.

Guests are welcomed into an atmosphere where modern elegance meets Lebanese warmth. The restaurant is a favored spot for both hotel guests and discerning local diners, attracting those who appreciate genuine grilled meats, vibrant mezze, and the ritual of sharing food at a leisurely pace. With live entertainment enhancing the weekend vibe and the option to enjoy shisha on the upper terrace, Byblos Sur Mer has become more than a restaurant—it is a social hub where the sweet Abu Dhabi breeze carries the promise of a memorable evening.

Menu Highlights at Byblos Sur Mer

The culinary philosophy at Byblos Sur Mer is rooted in delivering traditional Lebanese flavors with a refined presentation. Chef de Cuisine Raed oversees a menu designed to transport diners straight to the mountains and shores of Lebanon. The emphasis is on fresh ingredients, bold spices, and the unmistakable taste of charcoal-grilled specialties. The menu, available via the official InterContinental Abu Dhabi website, features a broad selection that caters to both intimate dinners and larger family gatherings.

Based on customer feedback and the restaurant’s own descriptions, several dishes stand out as particular favorites. The cold and hot mezze selection is extensive, with Hummus Bil Chatta regularly mentioned as a beloved starter. The Tabouleh is another signature item, celebrated for its perfect balance of parsley, bulgur wheat, and lemon. For main courses, the mixed grill platters are the centerpiece, offering succulent skewers of lamb, chicken, and kofta, all expertly charred and seasoned.

Popular Dishes Noted by Guests

• Hummus Bil Chatta — A spiced variation of the classic chickpea dip, often highlighted in the restaurant’s promotional materials and guest favorites.
• Tabouleh — Freshly chopped parsley salad with tomato, onion, and a citrus dressing, widely praised for its authentic preparation.
• Mixed Grill — A combination of marinated lamb chops, shish taouk, and kofta, grilled over charcoal for a smoky finish.
• Dolma — Vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, a staple of Lebanese mezze that features in photo galleries of the restaurant.
• Kebab Platter — Various kebab preparations appear in user-uploaded photos, indicating their popularity among regular diners.

The Dining Experience at Byblos Sur Mer

Spanning two floors, Byblos Sur Mer offers distinct experiences depending on where you choose to sit. The lower-level dining room is sophisticated and air-conditioned, ideal for a formal dinner or a business lunch. The upper lounge, however, is where the venue truly comes alive, particularly on weekends. Here, guests can enjoy creative cocktails while overlooking the sparkling marina, the perfect setting for a sunset gathering. The terrace seating is a sought-after spot during the cooler months, allowing diners to enjoy their meal while watching the gentle movement of boats in the marina.

Live entertainment is a staple of the Byblos Sur Mer weekend program, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere that sets it apart from a typical hotel restaurant. The dress code is smart casual, reflecting the restaurant's upscale yet welcoming character. Service is consistently described in Google Maps reviews as friendly and attentive, with one reviewer specifically noting the