Entering Levant & Nar – perched on the edge of the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa – diners are met with unmistakably authentic aromas from the open kitchen as fresh breads are baked, hunks of meats are seared and Levantine spices are delicately toasted, sending a symphony of mouthwatering fragrances wafting through the restaurant.
The air is thick with the tantalizing scent of sumac, za’atar, and pomegranate molasses, and the sizzling sound of the fired-up grills is the backdrop to the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.
Levant & Nar serves as the resort’s culinary passport to the rich flavours of the Middle East, and with a clear view of the stunning Arabian Gulf, this isn’t just your standard hotel restaurant.
Add the impressive bar stretching the full length of the room and a menu full of authentic flavours, and you’ve got a place where food isn’t just served – it’s crafted.
One of the most popular places to sit is outdoors, where at night fire pits light up the terrace, creating an inviting ambiance for some laid-back al fresco dining. These spots are a hot commodity, so make a beeline for these tables if you can.
The menu at Levant & Nar offers a broad range of traditional Middle Eastern fare with a unique twist.
The assorted cold mezze platter brings a variety of flavours to the table, with every bite a reminder of Levantine culinary excellence – from the creaminess of the hummus to the smokiness of the Mutabal and the punchy flavours of the Mercimek Köfte.
The mixed grill is simply a carnivorous feast. Each piece of meat, whether it was the Adana kebab, shish tavuk, lamb shish, or Turkish sucuk, is expertly grilled and served with a kick from the grilled chilli and a comforting side of bulgur pilav.
Meanwhile, the Sebze Güveç, a serving of oven-baked seasonal vegetables with tomato sauce and fresh herbs, is a delightful vegetarian option. Its homely warmth balanced out the richness of the mixed grill and the warm, doughy pide cheese (a must-order).
Sweet endings come in the form of traditional Turkish baklava and a selection of Lokum (Turkish delight) from the tableside trolley, with portions balanced out against traditional gram weights.
The flaky baklava is delectably sweet, the perfect companion to a scoop of ice cream, while the Lokum offers a fun and diverse mix of flavours ranging from traditional rose water to pistachio.
But what’s a true Turkish-Lebanese meal without a little tipple?
The Mutluluk, a rum-based cocktail, is a sweet, creamy, and refreshing blend of tropical fruits, dates, and juices. The Cappadocia, on the other hand, brings gin-based delight with fresh raspberries and a hint of citrus, all covered in a flavourful air balloon that truly tantalizes the senses.
In the daytime, Levant & Nar treats diners to an unobstructed view of the northern UAE’s beautiful seascape.
While the view might be lost in the darkness come nightfall, the restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere, accentuated by those glowing fire pits, more than makes up for it.
Levant & Nar is a gastronomic gem that showcases genuine Turkish-Lebanese dishes beyond the popular classics.
With its enticing menu, authentic tastes, and vibrant atmosphere, it guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.
When to go: Open daily 6pm-11pm, plus Saturday and Sunday noon-3pm.
Where to go: Levant & Nar, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah (+971 7 202 6666).
