Discovering Suki: A Culinary Gem in Beirut
Bringing Asian Flavors to Beirut
Nestled in the vibrant Saifi Village neighborhood, Suki introduces a refreshing take on street-inspired Asian soul food. With a focus on bold flavors and authentic dishes, this newly opened casual-dining restaurant is making waves in Beirut’s culinary scene. Founded by Karim Jaber, Suki’s menu is brought to life by Singapore-born, Dubai-based chef Reif Othman, known for his acclaimed dining establishments such as Reif Kushiyaki and Hoe Lee Kow.
Chef Reif Othman: A Culinary Visionary
Chef Reif Othman is celebrated as one of the Middle East’s standout culinary figures, recognized with multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand awards and distinctions from Gault & Millau UAE. His innovative approach combines refinement with excitement, showcasing dishes like the popular Wagyu sando and the viral yuzu “toilet roll” cake. Now, Othman brings his unique flair to Beirut, presenting a dining experience that balances tradition with creativity.
“There are fusion, pan-Asian, and westernized dishes in Beirut, but not many authentic Chinese restaurants,” Othman remarks, emphasizing his commitment to delivering genuine flavors.
A Philosophy of Simplicity
Othman’s culinary philosophy revolves around authenticity and simplicity. “Respect the ingredients as they are,” he believes. “Don’t complicate things. Keep it simple.” His emphasis on good ingredients and expert cooking techniques allows the natural flavors to shine through, resulting in an experience that feels both authentic and modern.
Travel is a significant influence on Othman’s cooking style. With a rich tapestry of experiences from Japan and the United States, he draws inspiration from vibrant culinary scenes. Suki was designed to offer comforting and straightforward meals in a casual setting, encouraging diners to visit frequently and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
An Inviting Atmosphere
The decor at Suki sets a playful tone, incorporating Japanese night-market elements that blend minimalism with flair. From adorable lucky cats to colorful sake barrels and whimsical cloth banners adorned with fish motifs, the ambiance is both contemporary and inviting, echoing the spirit of traditional food stalls.
An Exquisite Menu Focusing on Authenticity
Suki’s menu is a sophisticated blend of classic Japanese dishes and shareable plates curated by Othman’s expert hand. Diners can expect delightful options like crunchy pickled cucumber salad, crispy spring rolls, fresh sushi, and hearty ramen. One of the standout features is the selection of Chinese dim sum and Japanese gyoza—dishes Othman has meticulously refined to maintain their traditional integrity.
“I wouldn’t describe it as fusion food,” Othman explains. “Most of the menu at Suki is traditional Japanese but with a playful twist.” He recognized a gap in Beirut’s dining landscape for authentic dim sum, and Suki presents a perfect opportunity to fill that void.
Quality Ingredients: A Commitment to Freshness
Quality is at the forefront of Suki’s culinary offerings. Othman sources most ingredients locally, only importing select Japanese items to ensure everything is fresh and seasonal. One of his favorite dishes is the beef claypot, which infuses Singaporean techniques with local flavors. The preparation involves marinating meat in soy sauce and cooking it together with rice, mushrooms, and fried onions, creating a comforting and savory meal.
The dish is designed with a balance of textures and flavors, offering a comforting experience enhanced by fresh herbs like spring onions and shiso leaf.
Tailored Flavors for Local Tastes
Understanding the local palate is essential for Othman. “I noticed that Lebanese preferences lean towards less salt and more sour flavors,” he shares. This insight guided him in crafting a menu that resonates with the Lebanese culinary tradition, ensuring a delightful fusion of tastes without losing the essence of authenticity.
Notable Dishes and Sweet Treats
Among the must-try dishes are sweet and nutty shrimp sesame toast, har gau dim sum with a seafood filling, and a spicy tuna sushi roll. And for dessert? Guests can delight in banana fritters drizzled with miso caramel sauce or a light Japanese cheesecake topped with cream and berries, capping off the meal on a sweet note.
Future Plans at Suki
Chef Othman has plans to expand the menu with seasonal specials, introducing classic Chinese offerings like Mongolian beef and sweet and sour shrimp, which will especially appeal during the colder months. His vision is to consistently adapt the menu to reflect the seasons and local availability of fresh ingredients.
“I feel it could be cool to add some of these dishes to the menu as monthly specials,” he envisions.
At Suki, diners are invited not only to enjoy authentic Asian cuisine but also to experience a delightful atmosphere where simple, honest food takes center stage. As Othman continues to weave his culinary magic, Beirut is poised to enjoy a heightened appreciation for Asian flavors, marking Suki as a noteworthy destination for food enthusiasts.
