Meet the Kingdom’s first Em Sherif Sea Café

Levantine love is coming to Laysen Valley.

Everything Mireille Hayek touches turns to gold. In fact, the restaurateur’s passion project Em Sherif – famed for its refined take on Lebanese cuisine – was a finalist in the inaugural MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants. Now, alongside 22 restaurants across Europe and the Middle East, Em Sherif Restaurant Group is about to open the first Em Sherif Sea Café in Saudi Arabia.

Located in Laysen Valley, the concept is a tribute to Lebanon’s historic ties to the Mediterranean world. This shiny new restaurant will groove to the same beat as other Em Sherif restaurants but with a special seafood spin, so expect a warm welcome as you step into this haven of Levantine hospitality. The decor is expected to be minimal yet chic, with a dash of irresistible charm—preparing you for a meal of luscious Levantine flavours. 

This evolution in the Levantine dining experience began in the heart of Beirut back in 2011. Today, the seafood concept is also present in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain. As for the new outpost’s menu? It features a variety of fresh seafood dishes including ‘the catch of the day’, allowing guests to select their choice from the display bar to be expertly prepared to their liking. There’s also a selection of cold and hot mezze, including traditional delicacies and more contemporary dishes with a unique twist. 

As for the new outpost’s menu? It features a variety of fresh seafood dishes including ‘the catch of the day’, allowing guests to select their choice from the display bar to be expertly prepared to their liking. There’s also a selection of cold and hot mezze, including traditional delicacies and more contemporary dishes with a unique twist. 

Highlights are likely to include Raw Red Sea Bream, Shrimp Provençale, and Samak Rass Asfour, as well as delectable vegetarian options such as a Whole Roasted Cauliflower in Tahini and spicy pickled walnut dip, Hindbeh bil Zeit and Lentil Kibbeh – all perfect for a light meal. For those looking for a heartier option, the restaurant also features a beef bar corner with a selection of grilled meats, made to order, including Aged Cote De Boeuf, Ribeye, Striploin, Wagyu Tenderloin, and accompanying sauces such as béarnaise, zaatar chimichurri and peppercorn.

Laysen Valley serves as the perfect backdrop for Em Sherif’s new branch. The location combines Najd’s timeless charm with a splash of modern pizzazz. Whether you’re drawn to the smell of freshly baked bread, cool cafés, or fine-dining restaurants, there’s something for everyone at Laysen Valley. The site boasts local and international restaurants, including Asador De Aranda, Bagatelle Riyadh, and White Robata.

GO: Visit https://emsherifcafe.sa for more information.