Little Beirut brings Lebanese bites and shisha to Indooroopilly
Anyone that has journeyed to Lebanon will tell you that despite its small size, the country packs one of the most varied culinary offerings in the world. A little slice of Lebanon has come to Indooroopilly in the form of Little Beirut, serving up some of the most mesmerising meze platters around. This Lebanese bistro has quickly established itself as a go-to spot for succulent skewers, mouth-watering moussaka and generous helpings of heavenly hummus.
Seeking an opportunity to return to his roots and a chance to showcase the traditional flavours of Lebanon, Will Samra made the decision to close his beloved cafe The Humble Quinoa in favour of turning it into the vibrant and authentic bistro Little Beirut. With his father on board to help spearhead the concept, Will has overhauled the bright and airy space to be reminiscent of energetic Middle Eastern restaurants, with new laser-cut screens dividing the interior, as well as a newly installed bar and shisha lounge turning the space into a lavish and lively Lebanese meeting place. The focus has shifted from a brunch offering to a full-blown lunch and dinner menu, curated by new head chef Ammar Kassrawi, former owner of the popular Morningside eatery Baalbek.
When it comes to the food, Little Beirut leaves no one wanting. Ammar’s specialties have been bolstered by a few of Will’s personal favourite dishes, with the bulk of the menu centred on traditional Lebanese meze and share platters. Start your meal with a selection of dips (baba ganoush in bulk – yes please) before working your way through the meze selection. Falafels, batata harra (fried potatoes with garlic), Lebanese sausages, pizzas and kibbeh are all available at your fingertips, but if you can’t possibly decide then opt for a platter or two. Little Beirut has eight platters to choose from, piled high with all sorts of tasty morsels to share or to hoard for yourself. Making your way through a meal like this is thirsty work – thankfully Little Beirut’s new bar has you covered with wine, cocktails and enough Lebanese beer to fill the Mediterranean Sea. If you think your experience ends one the dishes are cleared – think again. An authentic Lebanese shisha awaits you post-feast, where you can kick back with full bellies, contented smiles and no worries while you blissfully sample the variety of flavours on hand, which include the likes of apple, peach, strawberry, watermelon and lemon.
If you want to get your hands on some mighty meze, head to the Stumble Guide to check opening hours.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Brisbane dining guide with more than 2400 places to eat, drink, shop and play.
