From Beirut to Dubai, Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina has evolved into more than a bar-restaurant; it is a vibrant lifestyle destination where Latin spirit, bold flavors and electric atmosphere come together. Founded by Marc Chehade, CEO of MEC Hospitality, the brand continues to expand its regional presence while elevating its positioning in the GCC hospitality scene.
Award-winning recognition
And in 2025, Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina reached a defining milestone. Esco-Bar Dubai was honored at the Good Food Middle East Awards 2025, winning the title of Best Mexican Restaurant in Dubai—one of the most respected recognitions in the region’s culinary industry. The award reflects not only culinary excellence, but consistency, atmosphere, service and brand identity in one of the world’s most competitive dining landscapes.
A landmark year of growth
The past year marked a pivotal chapter for the brand. In Lebanon, the opening of Esco-Bar Pasteur injected fresh energy into Beirut’s nightlife and dining scene, quickly becoming a sought-after hotspot blending elevated design, Latin rhythm and strong operational performance. In Dubai, the launch of Esco-Bar One Central at 25 Jump Street—the city’s first licensed street—positioned the brand at the heart of one of the UAE’s most dynamic entertainment districts. Together with Palm West Beach, the Dubai portfolio now reflects a powerful, award-winning presence.
The experience that won the award
Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina’s success lies in its immersive Latin escape:
• Signature fajitas, quesadillas, tacos
• Vibrant starters like guacamole and calamar a la Parilla
• Creative Latin-inspired cocktails and Margaritas
• High-energy ambiance transitioning seamlessly from dinner to nightlife
The Good Food Middle East Awards recognition validates what guests have already embraced—Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina delivers not just food, but a full sensory experience.
The vision ahead
With multiple outlets across Lebanon and the UAE, a prestigious industry award in Dubai and continued expansion in strategic lifestyle destinations, Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina is steadily building a regional legacy. As Marc Chehade looks toward expanding Esco-Bar Coctel Y Cocina across additional GCC countries and the wider MENA region, the brand’s ambition is clear: to export its award-winning Latin concept into key regional capitals and lifestyle hubs, partnering with strategic franchisees who share the same vision for quality, energy and authentic hospitality.
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.
