Abd El Wahab chooses Belgravia site for its international debut

The two-storey site, which will have a private dining room and a terrace, will be the 19th restaurant under the Abd El Wahab brand.

Opening on 2 March, the 120-cover restaurant on Belgravia’s Pont Street will offer a la carte and set Middle Eastern and Lebanese menus, including mezze starters; salads; grilled meats; and oven roasted dishes.

Small dishes the group serves across its restaurants include traditional dishes like hummous; fattoush; aubergine salad; grilled bread stuffed with beef and cheese; deep fried mince ‘kebbeh; and stuffed vine leaves.

Main dish options will include half a marinated and grilled baby chicken; spiced minced lamb; grilled jumbo shrimps and mixed grill skewers; and the less traditional offering of quinoa paella.

The Belgravia opening marks a milestone for Abd El Wahab operator Ghia Holdings, as it will be the first opening outside of the Middle East for the 45-strong restaurant group, which is gearing up for European expansion. Other restaurant brands in the group’s portfolio include Beirut by Grill, Ahwak, Med, Fabrk and coffee shop Caribou.

“Many people who have travelled in the Middle East are familiar with Abd El Wahab restaurants,” says Rita Rowe, managing director at UK agency Mason Williams, which is co-ordinating the launch.

“We have an on-going integrated communications programme that will ensure Abd El Wahab becomes synonymous with Lebanese dining in London.”