Al Khawaja Group is a Lebanese hospitality brand delivering distinct culinary experiences rooted in tradition, connection, authenticity and modern refinement. Christian Bou Chaaya, the company’s CEO, tells us more.
How did the journey of Al Khawaja begin?
The journey began on July 15, 2020, when we opened Jnaynit Al Khawaja amid Lebanon’s financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially launched as a summer pop-up in Faqra, it was meant to offer a peaceful escape from Beirut’s unrest. Moreover, the concept came from a partnership between Elie Mhanna and me, rooted in our shared experience and desire to create something comforting. Although it started as a short-term idea, the Beirut explosion and airport closures pushed us to continue. Furthermore, its success inspired us to open Al Khawaja Achrafieh in 2022, followed by Samkit Al Khawaja in 2025.
What makes each Al Khawaja concept unique and what experience do you aim to offer guests?
To begin with, Al Khawaja Group proudly owns three distinct dining venues across Lebanon, each offering a unique culinary experience. First, Jnaynit Al Khawaja opened in 2020 in Faqra, offering rustic mountain charm with BBQs, saj and sweeping terrace views. Next, in 2022, Al Khawaja launched in Achrafieh, inside a 1960s villa serving refined Lebanese cuisine with lush gardens for every season. Then, in 2025, Samkit Al Khawaja debuted in Batroun’s harbor, offering fresh seafood directly sourced from local fishermen along the coast. Finally, Samkit presents two menus, traditional Lebanese seafood and modern dishes, delivering an authentic, elevated portside dining experience by the sea.
How do the different Al Khawaja venues complement one another under one brand?
Every Al Khawaja Group concept is designed to create a distinct emotional connection with each guest it welcomes. Specifically, Jnaynit Al Khawaja in Faqra offers rustic charm and scenic views, attracting ski lovers in winter and families during summer. Meanwhile, Al Khawaja in Achrafieh blends tradition with modern elegance, drawing professionals, city residents and tourists. Finally, Samkit Al Khawaja in Batroun fosters authenticity and belonging, where guests emotionally connect with fishermen, the sea, and honest coastal cuisine.
How do you balance tradition and innovation across your brands?
The innovation shines through at Al Khawaja Achrafieh, where classic Lebanese cuisine is elevated within an elegant setting inside a beautifully preserved heritage building, offering a sophisticated urban dining experience. Similarly, Samkit Al Khawaja innovates by immersing guests in the vibrant coastal lifestyle. Guests dine alongside the working port with boats coming and going, while maintaining a refined, contemporary atmosphere. This thoughtful balance honors tradition while creating fresh, immersive experiences that deeply connect guests to Lebanon’s rich culture and unique environments.
What’s next for Al Khawaja Group?
Our group’s vision is to expand and diversify by introducing complementary concepts both within and outside Lebanon. Consequently, this strategy helps us engage a broader audience while preserving our roots and honoring the essence of our culinary heritage. In turn, it allows us to deliver authentic experiences.
