From the moment you arrive in Reigate and step through the doors of Lebnani, you’re welcomed not just as a customer, but as family. Tucked away in this charming Surrey town, the restaurant radiates heartfelt warmth—thanks in no small part to the friendly staff and the lovely owners. Their smiles and genuine passion for hospitality create an atmosphere that feels more like dining in someone’s welcoming home than a restaurant.
Atmosphere & Decor
The décor at Lebnani strikes a beautiful balance between modern style and Middle Eastern soul. Warm-toned wooden tables and soft, golden lighting provide a cosy backdrop, while colourful mosaic tiles and statement lanterns lend an authentic, vibrant touch. Tastefully chosen wall art—evoking Beirut’s lively streets—instantly transports you to the Levant. The overall vibe is relaxed yet refined: ideal for a casual family night out or a lingering dinner with friends.
A Taste of Tradition
To start, we enjoyed a generous platter of mezze that exemplified the kitchen’s finesse with flavour.
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Sticky jawaneh: These grilled chicken wings dazzled with their smoky sweetness and irresistible glaze—utterly finger‑licking.
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Beirut Fattoush salad: Crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and toasted pitta combined with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshingly light bite.
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Batata harra: Spiced potatoes packed a satisfying punch—perfectly balanced with earthy cumin and gentle heat.
For mains, the star attractions:
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Lamb shawarma, tender and richly spiced, wrapped in soft flatbread, with a drizzle of tahini sauce bringing it all together.
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Chicken shawarma, juicy and aromatic, with every bite bursting with flavour and warmth.
“There’s something sacred about grilling in Lebanon. It’s not just the food — it’s the scent of spiced meat mixing with charcoal smoke, kids running around barefoot, uncles arguing about football, and someone always calling out, ‘khalliha shwayyé aktar!’ (‘Leave it a bit longer!’). Lamb ribs were for special Sundays rubbed with baharat, kissed by fire, and sticky with sweet-sour pomegranate molasses that clings to your fingers. No cutlery, no fuss — just hands, bread, and loud family voices over the smell of the mountains. That’s not a meal — that’s a memory.”
Chef Jad Youssef
It’s this spirit of togetherness and tradition that infuses every dish at Lebnani — not just food on a plate, but a taste of home, memory, and culture.
Warm Hospitality
It’s not just the food that’s outstanding here — it’s the genuine kindness that underpins every visit. From the owners checking in table-side to staff who are eager to guide you through the menu, the hospitality shines through. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely feast, you’ll leave feeling nourished in every sense.
Final Verdict
If you’re seeking authentic Lebanese cooking served with soul in a beautiful, welcoming setting, Lebnani in Reigate is a must-visit. With food this vibrant and service this heartfelt, don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favourite.
https://lebnani.co.uk/ – https://www.instagram.com/lebnaniuk
Cookbook
Jad is now launching his first-ever cookbook, a celebration of soulful, simple Lebanese cooking, packed with 80 authentic family recipes, intimate stories, and stunning photography. From creamy hummus and crispy falafel to slow-cooked lamb and fragrant rice dishes, it’s all about food that brings people together.
The cookbook is already 80% complete and will be released in Spring 2026. But to bring it to life, Jad is turning to the community that’s supported him over the years – via a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign launching TODAY!
Here’s the campaign link:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lebnani-cookbook/the-lebnani-cookbook
Rewards include:
- Signed first edition copies
- Chef’s table & mezze experiences with Jad
- Exclusive digital cooking classes for you & friends
- Behind-the-scenes content & more
