Walk into a calm, peaceful, and serene dark space that's lightly lit. Listen to the faded music in the background, people's whispers... Look around and see the bar and its action while the owner walks around the tables with a large smile on his face and professional hostesses that welcome you in with style and character... I'm back to "The Restaurant," back at Burgundy.
As I said before, Burgundy's success is no mistake, and if the Michelin institution had expanded to Lebanon and the Middle East, Burgundy would have gotten one star for sure.
Tonight, we were seated at the main table: This special table is surrounded with three walls of black wood for a cozier feel and more intimate dining, and I enjoyed the details of architecture; the eight big lanterns hanging from the arcade ceiling, the black stone floor, the long bar with its designer wooden chairs and this black feel, all relaxing without being claustrophobic. It's pure class!
As soon as you take your seat, you are asked what kind of water you prefer. Even water is served with style. Waiters at burgundy speak perfect French. The service is impeccable, so women are served first, older men follow, while I came last being the youngest at the table. They make sure the bread plate is always full. Plates arrive from the right side and leave from the left... These details and so much more making the experience flawless. The table setup is one great first impression. Perfectly set, the table and its unique cutlery and plates also feature Frette tablecloths.
The place's beautiful decor notes: A rectangular space, perfectly lit by the dozen black lanterns pending from the arcade ceiling. A long arcade covered with metallic stripes supporting the speakers while two lines of rectangular ducts bring in the needed amount of air while recycling the space. Sambonet Italy, cutlery, and Stolzle wine glasses are high-end brands used at Burgundy. The floor is covered with stripes of a darker color. On the left side, a long bar welcomes clients who come in for a drink or a quick bite. High wooden chairs face it. Wine bottles are displayed behind the counter. To the right, a wall covered with golden metallic panels, host three pictures. Wines are everywhere, bottles decorating the corners and walls. The best table is the one occupying the right side corner where a sofa is tucked. At the end of the restaurant, a large glass facade offers a view of the inner court of Saifi Village.
The first impression: The menus are distributed without prices, except to the person inviting. That's a fine-dining detail rarely used at restaurants around the world and surely a premiere in Lebanon. The service is very professional and smooth. Waiters are well trained, they know what they are doing yet act humble giving you enough space to breathe. Dinner started with a small rectangular blackboard including a portion of butter and sea salt bits. A warmed butter that melts like heaven on a selection of bread... Perfectly crunchy full-bodied bread with a thick envelope and moist heart that's airy enough to be enjoyed. "Amazing" is the first impression.
Dinner was, is and will always be exceptional: To say it again, "The Restaurant" has no close competition in Lebanon. Youssef Akiki is the chef behind those magical plates, a man guided by passion, dedication and a love for food. My regards to you chef! You surely deserve to be awarded the first Michelin star in Lebanon.
The food is outstanding, the flavors extravagant, the plates pieces of art and the service is unique... the experience is truly unforgettable! Majestic is the least that can be said. From the first impression - the plates' colors and design - to each following moment; the rich aromas than the textures and finally the smile that is painted on your face without you even noticing.
I now have a favorite restaurant in Lebanon... At least once in a lifetime, Burgundy should be visited... for sure.
Burgundy Beirut: https://goo.gl/maps/ujBcAXB2rCgdCWgDA
