A Culinary Icon Steps Into Dubai
Dubai’s dining scene is no stranger to international favourites, but few names carry the weight and prestige of Em Sherif. Known across Lebanon and beyond for its rich celebration of traditional recipes, Em Sherif has built a reputation for elevating Lebanese cuisine while staying true to its roots. Now, with the opening of Em Sherif Deli in Dubai, food lovers in the city will finally have the chance to experience this beloved brand in a more casual yet equally vibrant way.
The deli brings with it a promise — the warmth of Lebanese hospitality, the comfort of home-style cooking, and the refined touch that Em Sherif has become known for globally. For many Lebanese expatriates and Middle Eastern food enthusiasts, this launch is more than just a restaurant opening; it is the arrival of a cultural staple.
A Brand With Deep Heritage
Founded by Mireille Hayek, fondly known as “Em Sherif,” the brand began as a heartfelt tribute to Lebanese culinary heritage. Em Sherif quickly gained international recognition for its opulent restaurants, where every dish tells a story. From mezze spreads to slow-cooked stews, the brand has always celebrated authenticity while presenting Lebanese food in a luxurious way.
The deli concept, however, takes a slightly different route. Designed to be approachable, relaxed, and easy to enjoy daily, Em Sherif Deli still retains the soul of the brand but brings it into a more casual dining environment. For Dubai, this makes perfect sense. A city that thrives on food innovation while cherishing cultural traditions, Dubai provides the perfect stage for Em Sherif Deli to shine.
Why Dubai Was the Next Step
It is no secret that Dubai has become a hub for global gastronomy. From Michelin-starred chefs to street food pop-ups, the city welcomes new flavours with open arms. For Em Sherif, choosing Dubai was both a natural progression and a homecoming. With its large Lebanese community and a wider audience that has long admired Middle Eastern cuisine, the city offers the perfect audience.
Moreover, Dubai’s food culture thrives on diversity. Diners here are adventurous, curious, and eager to explore. They value authenticity just as much as innovation, which aligns perfectly with what Em Sherif Deli represents.
What Diners Can Expect
Stepping into Em Sherif Deli will feel like walking into a slice of Beirut — warm colours, comforting aromas, and an atmosphere that balances elegance with ease. Guests can expect a thoughtfully curated menu, filled with Lebanese staples designed for both quick bites and leisurely meals.
From freshly baked manakish topped with zaatar or cheese, to flavourful shawarmas prepared with care, every dish reflects tradition with a modern twist. Mezze favourites such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and fattoush are expected to make an appearance, alongside deli-style sandwiches and fresh salads. For those craving something sweet, the dessert offerings are set to include Lebanese classics like maamoul and baklava.
More than just the food, the experience at Em Sherif Deli is meant to echo the feeling of gathering around the table — sharing, laughing, and creating memories. This is not simply a place to eat, but a space that honours community and togetherness.
A New Chapter in Lebanese Dining
The launch of Em Sherif Deli is significant not only for Dubai but also for Lebanese cuisine on the global stage. It signals a shift where heritage-driven brands are finding new ways to adapt and thrive while keeping their identity intact. By opening a deli, Em Sherif is extending its reach, inviting more people to engage with Lebanese food in an accessible and everyday way.
This is especially meaningful for the Lebanese diaspora. For many, food is the most tangible connection to home, and having a place like Em Sherif Deli in Dubai creates a bridge to culture and memory. It is both nostalgic and forward-looking, a reminder of where traditions come from and how they continue to evolve.
Building a Community Through Food
At its core, Em Sherif Deli is more than a business venture; it is an ambassador of culture. Food has always been one of the most powerful ways to connect people, and this opening in Dubai is a perfect example. By inviting people of all backgrounds to enjoy Lebanese flavours, the deli becomes a space of cultural exchange.
Dubai, with its cosmopolitan character, thrives on such moments. The city’s culinary scene is shaped by its diversity, and Em Sherif Deli fits seamlessly into this narrative. It is a reminder that while food can be an expression of national pride, it is also a gift meant to be shared across borders.
The Emotional Connection to Em Sherif
What sets Em Sherif apart from countless other restaurants is the emotional depth behind it. When Mireille Hayek first began, her vision was not just about serving food but about capturing the feeling of home, family, and heritage. Every branch that has opened since has carried this philosophy, and Dubai’s deli will be no different.
Guests walking into the deli will not only find delicious meals but also an atmosphere that feels familiar and comforting. Whether someone is Lebanese and missing the flavours of home, or an international visitor eager to discover authentic Middle Eastern tastes, Em Sherif Deli promises to create moments of belonging.
Looking Ahead
The arrival of Em Sherif Deli in Dubai this September is only the beginning. The brand has shown a clear vision of expanding while retaining its values. As the world becomes increasingly connected, people are seeking experiences that feel genuine, and Em Sherif has proven that it can deliver just that.
Dubai’s food scene is about to gain another star player, one that shines not because of trends but because of timeless values — tradition, hospitality, and heart. The deli is set to become not just a dining spot, but a cultural landmark, one that celebrates Lebanon’s spirit while embracing Dubai’s vibrancy.
A Celebration Worth Waiting For
When the doors finally open, diners will be walking into more than just another restaurant launch. They will be stepping into a celebration of heritage, resilience, and flavour. Em Sherif Deli carries with it a legacy that has already won hearts across the region, and its arrival in Dubai is sure to create an impact far beyond the plate.
For those who love food with a story, this is an opening not to be missed. It is a chance to taste Lebanon’s finest, to feel the warmth of its culture, and to be part of a new chapter in Dubai’s ever-evolving culinary journey.
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