After hosting Al Bacio and later Tomi’s, the emblematic address on Rue Notre-Dame is about to change once again. From the second week of October, a brand-new restaurant will open its doors there: Levantine, created by the entrepreneur Alaa-Eddine Benchiba, already behind Bao Bar in Clausen.
From Clausen to the city centre – a new adventure
Following the success of Bao Bar in Clausen, Alaa-Eddine is now launching an entirely new concept. An engineer by training who reinvented himself as an entrepreneur and restaurateur, he embarked on this second venture after seizing an unexpected opportunity. “I wasn’t really looking, but when I discovered this place for rent, I immediately pictured and developed the project,” he explains.
Above all, Alaa-Eddine describes himself as a true foodie. “I have taken the recipe that made Bao Bar a success: a cosy spot, with simple, modern décor, a bistronomic spirit, and above all, a focus on sharing,” says Alaa-Eddine. At Levantine, there will be no baos of course – but a Levantine kitchen instead!
A menu inspired by Levantine classics
Open Wednesday to Sunday, the team at Levantine is committed to offering quality dishes made with fresh ingredients. “We work with raw products, prepared entirely on-site,” says Alaa-Eddine. “We’re not looking for shortcuts! For hummus, for example, we’ll select the finest chickpeas, soak them for 24 hours, and blend them with spices.”
Ahead of the planned opening in the second week of October, Alaa-Eddine and his team are fine-tuning the recipes that will feature on the menu. “I have many friends of Lebanese origin, and they’ve been our tasters! Every dish on the menu has been approved,” he says enthusiastically.
The menu will feature dips (hummus, mutabal, labneh…), small plates to share, and larger mains for those who prefer to enjoy their own dish. There will be something for everyone, from vegetarian choices to fish and meat options. “We’re still finalising the shawarma recipe – cooked horizontally – to get the spice blend just right, as well as the falafels, which must be perfect,” adds Alaa-Eddine.
Signature cocktails with oriental flair
On the drinks side, just as at Bao Bar, the team is working on signature cocktails with a Levantine influence. “Orange blossom and cardamom will be key ingredients in some of them,” explains Alaa-Eddine. The drinks list will also feature Lebanese beers and wines, alongside selected local vintages.
An opening that we shall try and detail on kachen.lu!
Levantine
24 Rue Notre-Dame
L-2240 Luxembourg
