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Sometimes, just sometimes, you have a ‘culinary experience’ and not just a meal. My visit to UMMI Beirut was one of those rare occasions.
Just over a week old, this slice of Lebanon lives and breathes its culture at the Intercontinental Robertson Quay. A simple glance as you walk past will tell you that this is the abode of fine dining. Step inside and the atmosphere envelops you like a comforting embrace.
A golden glow bathes the opulent furniture as modern lyrics-light music serenades the scene. Arabic lattice patterns adorn the massive windows that run along the restaurant’s length. There is seating outside as well, but I was too taken in by the plush interior to even consider it.
Service is impeccable; personal and attentive. If you are unfamiliar with Lebanese cuisine, the wait staff’s intimate knowledge of the menu will bring the right platter and glass to your table.
Lebanese meals are shared journeys. UMMI Beirut begins yours with communal bowls of Cold Mezze, appetisers such as chickpea-based Hummus (S$20) and eggplant-based Mutabal (S$25) dips. I enjoyed the unexpected rich sweetish flavour of Muhammara (S$25) which is roasted sweet pepper dip.
They were accompanied by UMMI Bread (S$9), which was simply divine for its cloudlike softness. You can ask for Mezze Plates, too, For 1 (S$45) with 4 Mezze, For 2 (S$68) with 5 Mezze and For 4 (S$98) with 6 Mezze.
We asked for the Tabbouleh (S$26) from the Salads menu to accompany the Mezze. The chopped parsley, tomato, spring onion and lemon was a citrusy pleasure.
Eased into Hot Mezze next, we enjoyed selections such as the Meat Sambousik (S$28) which is fried dough stuffed with minced lamb, onion, labneh (greek yoghurt) and parsley.
From the Grill, we were greeted by the UMMI Mixed Grill (S$68) consisting of marinated chicken, marinated lamb and minced lamb meat. Perfectly seasoned, juicy and dense with flavour, the minced lamb was my favourite.
Dessert was the classic Lebanese Knafeh (S$24). This spun pastry layered with cheese and drizzled with sweet syrup is popular throughout the Middle East. I thoroughly enjoyed the subtle sweetness of Ummi’s version; it was far better than the overly sweet Turkish renditions I’ve tasted before.
For a new restaurant, UMMI Beirut has a very knowing finger on the pulse of the local culinary scene. By 8pm, the 50-seater was almost packed with people and overflowing with good vibes. Epicures should make their way down here.
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