What makes Al Falamanki so appealing to locals and foreigners?
Designed to transport you to a traditional Lebanese village, Al Falamanki is the perfect venue for one to relax and play a game of cards or backgammon while listening to legendary artists such as Fairuz. At Al Falamanki, we offer a wide selection of delicious local items that can be enjoyed at any time: day or night.
Al Falamanki opened in 2008 and instantly attracted Lebanese, Arabs and tourists from all over the world. Our garden could accommodate 600 people.
In 2016, Al Falamanki opened its first international branch in Dubai on Jumeirah Beach Road, a company-owned outlet. It comprises an indoor and outdoor area, seating up to 630 guests.
In June 2017, Al Falamanki opened its second branch in Beirut by the iconic Raouche rocks. The view from the terrace is incredible.
We are expanding throughout the MENA region, starting with a franchise in Doha, which has been delayed due to the pandemic and lockdown in the country. Al Falamanki Doha is approximately 1,500 square meters and can cater to 750 people.
You previously opened a pop-up concept of Al Falamanki in KSA. Are you considering a permanent branch anytime soon?
Our pop-up in Riyadh was a success story. We felt the love toward our brand, as we were fully booked most of the time. This shows that our reputation goes far beyond our beloved Lebanon. Our next permanent outlet with a franchisee partner consists of 3,000 square meters and will be ready by 2023.
What can you tell us about Al Falamanki Egypt?
Egypt is next, as we have already signed in Sitta October and have been searching for a suitable location under Al Falamanki management. We are very excited to explore this new territory, as it’s looking promising.
Several Lebanese concepts are opening in Paris. Is the French capital on your expansion radar?
Al Falamanki’s expansion strategy goes beyond our neighboring countries, so we do plan to have a signature outlet in a major European city, like Paris and London. The important thing is to find a suitable spot in order to preserve the original Al Falamanki experience abroad. Our concept isn’t just about Lebanese cuisine and shisha; it is about allowing clients to experience old Beirut with its homely charm. That’s why we are very cautious when it comes to selecting partners in a new location.
About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
