Couqley Bistro in Gemmayze

 

In need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of Beirut, my friend Hala and I decided to create a French-themed day inspired by the upcoming “La France au Liban” exhibition in Biel this weekend. 

We started off at Couqley Bistro located in “The Alleyway” of Gemmayze.  Having opened its doors in November 2009, Couqley is already booming with business as a result of its French ambiance, delicious French bistro cuisines and wines and affordable prices. True to its concept of a French Bistro, every element is simple and practical from the light jazz music to the table setting which holds up to 70 seated customers indoors and an additional 20 on the outdoor terasse.  In addition, almost everyone around me was enjoying their food with a glass of wine.   

Before my meal, I met with Alexis Couquelet (Executive Chef & Co-Owner) to learn more about his concept, menu and signature dishes.  The menu offers a variety of bistro inspired dishes. The best sellers, as suggested by the Chef, are the Crab cake appetizers, Duck Confit and Flank Steak which is a bistro steak only available in Couqley.  I decided to take the Weekday Lunch Formula that offers an appetizer + meal or meal + dessert for only 25,000LL.  Given the choice of three selections, I chose the Salad de Lentilles and Couqley’s Steak Frites. I would like to make a personal recommendation on the Salad de Lentilles which was unique, fresh and so tasty with it’s Dijon based dressing.   To get a better idea of Couqley’s selections, the menu is available for download on their website.

Make sure to call ahead as reservations are required for lunch and dinner. 

• Location:                   Alleyway, Gemmayze
• Opening Hours:       12:00pm – 3:30pm / 8:00pm to 11:30pm
• Average Price:         $30 a person with wine
• Special Offer:            Weekday Lunch Formule @ 25,000LL per person 
• Website:                      www.couqley.com
• Reservations:           01-442678