Lebanese and Egyptian traditions converge at Byblos this November

Across the waterfront of Bahrain, the lights of the skyline cast themselves into still water as Byblos readies itself for a culinary conversation between two of the Arab world’s most storied gastronomic traditions. From 12 to 14 November, the restaurant welcomes chefs Tony El Khoury and Shehab Medhat to orchestrate Arabian Horizons, the third iteration of this distinctive collaboration, where Lebanese and Egyptian flavours meet with an unmistakable shared reverence for heritage and the hands that built it.

The format is intimate and deliberate. A four hands dinner, where each chef brings his own perspective to the table yet moves within a single vision, requires a particular kind of restraint and generosity. El Khoury and Medhat approach their respective culinary traditions not as separate voices but as complementary ones, each honouring the methods and ingredients that define their homeland’s kitchens. The dishes that emerge from this partnership will reflect both the precision of their training and the instinctive understanding that craftsmanship, whether Lebanese or Egyptian, speaks a universal language when rooted in respect for ingredient, technique and time.

Byblos, positioned on Bahrain’s waterfront with views that stretch across the evening cityscape, provides the setting. The restaurant’s own commitment to culinary excellence and its understanding of what it means to bring different traditions into dialogue makes it the natural home for this event. The three nights offer something rare: a moment where two chefs of recognised skill align their craft around shared values rather than competing visions.

Reservations for Arabian Horizons III at Byblos from 12 to 14 November can be made through the restaurant.

Imagery courtesy of Byblos (@fsbahrain).