As the summer drew to a mournful close, the vibrant tapestry of Middle Eastern flavours and hospitality found a new home in the heart of Mayfair, at the InterContinental London Park Lane. Najma, meaning ‘star’ in Arabic is an ultra chic restaurant celebrating the rich and diverse Lebanese cuisine, Najma Lebanon promises a glorious gastronomic adventure, complemented by genuine Middle Eastern hospitality.

Stepping into Najma feels like a journey into the heart of Lebanon. We were immediately captivated by the inviting ambiance and warm service that set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The scent of exotic spices filled the air, and we were ready to indulge in the exquisite offerings of the Lebanese kitchen.

Our culinary journey commenced with Baba Ghanouj, a delicate blend of grilled aubergine, tahini, labneh, and pomegranate that tantalized our taste buds. The Sambousek cheese pastries, stuffed with fresh cheese and pine nuts, were a delightful precursor to the flavors that awaited us.

The seafood platter was a testament to the freshness and quality of the ingredients. King prawns, calamari, sea bass, and salmon graced the plate, each exquisitely cooked and accompanied by a zesty chilli garlic aioli and fragrant wild basmati rice.

The mixed grilled meat platter was a carnivore’s dream come true. Lamb chops, smoked lamb kofta, succulent chicken wings, and skewers were perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection. The chilli garlic aioli added a delightful kick, while the wild rice complemented the meat beautifully.

Najma’s menu is a celebration of contrasts, from the hot and cold mezze to the diverse array of salads and main dishes. The service was extremely attentive and friendly and the decor was warm and inviting with a touch of Middle Eastern glamour.

To round off our extraordinary dining experience, we savored traditional Lebanese desserts. The Maamoul, Osmalieh, and assorted Baklava were a sweet conclusion to an evening filled with culinary delights.

Najma Lebanon offers a set menu for two at an incredibly reasonable price of £65, encompassing a delightful selection of mezze, salads, and a mixed grill platter, complete with tantalizing accompaniments.

In keeping with the celebratory Lebanese spirit, the drink menu featured zero-proof cocktails, beers, and wines, including enticing mocktails like Mango Colada, Paloma, and Amaretti Sour. A diverse selection of Lebanese and international wines added to the beverage options.

Najma Lebanon is a gastronomic haven, inviting you to savor the true essence of Lebanese cuisine. So take your favourite food loving person, dress for the occasion and experience the magic of Najma. Your taste buds will embark on a celestial journey through the flavours of Lebanon and leave you wanting to retreat ethe whole joyous affair all over again….