Table Du Chef Jean Habchy — Restaurant in Beit Mery

Discovering small hidden gems is very rewarding, and my beloved country is one rich mine of tasty addresses !! After Kebet Zaman in Beirut, this joint is yet another spot that rewards your eyes as much as your palate ! Innovative concept ; a private dining experience on the terrace of an apt-turned-restaurant. One large table with max capacity of 10-12 persons, your private chef for the evening who "guides" you through this culinary experience, and a breathtaking view of a golden sunset if you happen to arrive there early ! Meet Chef Jean ; meat aficionado turned private chef who came up with the concept of serving a small group of people with gourmet dishes, from some of the best quality material he can find (seasonal products, local farmers/butchers), all in front of the customer's eyes. Each serving has its own story (origin, preparation ...) which Chef Jean relays with his charismatic presence. We're talking black angus MB2+ ; duck from the North (Batroun), seasonal vegetables, and even wine from his home village (Deir el Ahmar). He will even share some religious myths about one of his cherished products ! No paper menu available, the "journey" is already set by the Chef, you need only sit, relax and enjoy. He does ask when booking if anybody has specific allergies or preferences (the menu is flexible if you'd like more fish, less meat ...). We had an 8 course meal (yes !) : appetisers composed of fresh oak-smoked bread, delicious black butter, garlic marinated olive oil and olives from the coveted Deir Mimas in the South of Lebanon. Next was the homemade awarma (lamb confit) made BY the chef, which I have say, has NO EQUAL (fragrant, soft, almost sirupy texture) with paprika grilled potatoes. A fresh bowl of green leaves/arugula/peach salad followed which was also tasty. (The only green serving which is quite scarce in my opinion). Then the serious stuff started : grass fed beef carpaccio with balsamic vinegar cream, really tender and flavourful the masterpiece (personally !) : exquisite gourmet burger, VERY delicious, with smoked bread soaked with caramelised onions, a slice of brie with its sharp salty taste to counter the sweetness, topped with a savoury piece of black angus ground meat. Duck magret already marinated by the chef with a Szechuan sauce, on top of a mixed vegetables pan served al dente : colourful, copious, duck was super tender (but too salty for my taste) and finally, a meat platter of Black Angus filet cooked medium rare in the black butter served previously. A meat explosion that will kill you after everything that's been served, but like a friend said : impossible not to continue eating and finish the platter. Dish served with cherry tomatoes, coriander-sautéd mushrooms and baked baby potatoes. (Tip : let some bread slices soak in the residual fat in the pan ... and ENJOY!) Wine : we tried 3 different types, Domaine des Tourelles, Couvent Rouge and Makmel - Cuvée Riad (by far the best of the 3 !) Dessert : although non are homemade, the chef was not stingy on quality. You get a block of Valrhona black orange (simply awesome), alongside a locally made ice cream (ours was almond, topped with a caramel drizzle made on the spot). You rarely get such an extensive series of dishes, with each its signature taste, being delicious and savoury ... for EVERY item ! The difficult part was to then, get up and leave ... being dragged down by the added weight and the constant digestion !

This is a true culinary experience (as evidenced by this lonnng review ... which i felt I had to!) ; private chef with a story, a fantastic meal with great wine, an amazing view and ambiance ... close to make you forget the ongoing crisis reigning there !! If you have a long evening to spare and a liver to coddle, do...

Table du Chef Jean offers a unique and intimate dining experience in a private villa, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The service is top-notch, treating guests like royalty from the moment they arrive. The staff's attentiveness and professionalism ensure that every need is met, allowing you to fully indulge in the experience.

Every plate is crafted to perfection, showcasing the culinary artistry of Chef Jean Habchy. Each dish is an explosion of flavors. This was the best culinary experience I've had in my life. Special mentions go to the salmon gravlax and the burrata, which were exceptional.

The attention to detail is impeccable. Every aspect of the dining experience is meticulously planned and executed to ensure perfection. Chef Jean listens to his customers and strives to provide them with the best possible experience, making every meal memorable.

Dining at Table du Chef Jean revealed that cuisine is indeed an art form. Chef Jean is a true artist, and his creative plates highlight his talent and passion for culinary excellence. This is by far the best food in Lebanon. If I could give it 6 stars instead...

An unforgettable culinary experience!* Dining at Table du Chef was truly exceptional. The chef is not only talented but incredibly creative — every dish tells its own story. The flavors are unique and perfectly balanced, with a level of professionalism and attention to detail that’s rare to find.

Each plate has its own identity, making the entire meal a journey of taste you simply can't find anywhere else. It’s the kind of food that leaves a lasting impression and sets the bar so high, it's hard to go back to any other place.

Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates refined, original, and deeply satisfying...