After almost three decades of serving authentic Lebanese cuisine, Ishbilia has reopened following an elegant refurbisIshbilia Belgravia Reopens as One of London’s Best Lebanese Restaurants
Searching for an authentic Lebanese restaurant in London? Following an elegant refurbishment and the launch of a refreshed menu, Ishbilia has reaffirmed its place as one of the capital’s finest destinations for Lebanese cuisine. Located in the heart of Belgravia, the family-run restaurant has been serving traditional Lebanese and Arabic food since 1998, earning a loyal following for its exceptional hospitality, authentic flavours and beautifully prepared dishes.
Whether you’re planning a leisurely lunch, family celebration, business dinner or private event, Ishbilia offers an authentic taste of Lebanon just moments from Knightsbridge, Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace.
Nearly Three Decades of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
For more than 28 years, Ishbilia has been synonymous with authentic Lebanese food in London.
Founded by Head Chef Mohamed Alkhlaifaoui, affectionately known as Abu Mahmoud, the restaurant remains proudly family owned. Today, three generations work together, preserving recipes, traditions and hospitality that have been passed down through decades.
While the interiors have been beautifully refreshed, the philosophy remains unchanged. Every dish celebrates the generosity, warmth and craftsmanship at the heart of Lebanese cooking.
Why Ishbilia Is One of London’s Best Lebanese Restaurants
The newly renovated dining room offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, making Ishbilia equally suited to romantic dinners, family meals and special occasions.
The kitchen continues to source many of its key ingredients directly from the Middle East. Tahini, olives, olive oil and chickpeas are imported to preserve authentic flavour, while vine leaves are rolled by hand each day and the restaurant’s creamy labneh is made fresh in-house.
Every dish reflects the techniques and recipes that have made Lebanese cuisine one of the world’s most celebrated culinary traditions.
What to Order at Ishbilia
No visit is complete without exploring Ishbilia’s signature dishes.
The Kibbeh Nayeh remains one of London’s finest examples of the traditional Lebanese classic. Prepared using premium lamb, bulgur wheat and fresh mint, it showcases the precision and care behind every dish leaving the kitchen.
The daily homemade specials are equally popular with returning guests.
On Sundays, Maloube layers fragrant rice, lamb and aubergine before being dramatically served upside down at the table. Wednesdays bring comforting Mloukhieh, a slow-cooked jute mallow stew, while Fridays celebrate Sayadieh, featuring roasted cod served over beautifully spiced brown rice.
The wider menu offers an extensive selection of hot and cold mezze, charcoal-grilled meats, fresh seafood, homemade dips, salads and warm breads designed for sharing.
Lebanese Wines and Private Dining in Belgravia
Complementing the menu is an impressive wine list featuring bottles from Lebanon alongside new Palestinian wines from Nabeeth, produced in Bethlehem and the Galilee Highlands.
Following the refurbishment, Ishbilia now offers two elegant private dining rooms, each accommodating up to 20 guests. Perfect for birthdays, business meetings, family celebrations and corporate events, they make the restaurant one of the most sought-after private dining venues in Belgravia.
A Taste of Lebanon in Central London
Named after the Arabic word for Seville, Ishbilia’s redesigned interiors draw inspiration from both Andalusia and Beirut’s coastline, blending Mediterranean elegance with Lebanese warmth.
Almost three decades after opening its doors, Ishbilia continues to prove why it remains one of the best Lebanese restaurants in London. Combining authentic Lebanese cuisine, outstanding hospitality and an enviable Belgravia location, it is a destination every lover of Middle Eastern food should experience.
8-9 William St, London SW1X 9HL
