This new 100 m² space includes a 30 m² kitchen and can accommodate up to 85 people, with 51 seats indoors and 34 on the terrace.
On Jan. 23, Ginette opened the doors to its new establishment in Dbayeh. A new branch in Metn allowed the Gemmayzeh establishment to appeal to a new clientele.
This new 100 m² space includes a 30 m² kitchen and can accommodate up to 85 people, with 51 indoor seats and 34 on the terrace. Staying true to its "Urban Eatery" concept, the brand offers a varied cuisine. From smoked salmon, tuna, and meat tartines to salads like freekeh with dates and manchego. Additionally, hot dishes such as caramelized salmon and the famous poké bowls are available, along with lighter meal options. The establishment features a bar where you can enjoy coffee and cocktails at any time of the day. The average bill is $30 per person, and the restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Delivery in the region is also available through Toters.
Article not found.
While Ginette's DNA remains unchanged, the Dbayeh space is distinguished by its design and layout.
"There is no difference between the two Ginette locations regarding the menu: We offer exactly the same dishes," explained Magda Abillama, founder of the eatery. However, the interior setup differs: In Dbayeh, the absence of a furniture gallery led to integrating various brands directly into the decor. "Every element has been carefully selected to reflect our identity and create an atmosphere that is both warm and contemporary."
Clients are greeted by warm and streamlined tones, and a library "to bring life to the place." Unlike the Gemmayzeh location, where a large pop-up store showcases design objects, Dbayeh offers a more restricted selection of items, such as ceramics or lamps, available for sale on a dedicated library.
A strategic opening
The opening of Ginette in Dbayeh is part of an economic and strategic choice.
"The instability in Beirut, exacerbated by war, often forced us to temporarily close," said Abillama. These interruptions affected both the restaurant's profitability and increased staff turnover. Dbayeh, on the other hand, offers a safer environment and a new clientele from Metn. "Customers heard about us but were not necessarily willing to travel to Beirut for Ginette, so we brought Ginette to them."
The investment for this opening is around $500,000. "We are sharing the space with the Dépêche Mode store for 10 years," she stated.
Article not found.
Through this expansion, Abillama continues an entrepreneurial journey that began 14 years ago.
"I had no prior experience in running a restaurant before starting this. It was a total discovery, and I have learned tremendously over the years." Passionate about cooking and the art of hospitality, she transformed these modest beginnings into solid expertise. Today, Abillama sees Ginette not only as a place of gastronomy and design but also as a project rooted in Lebanon, to which she is very attached. "We sincerely hope the country will continue to move forward. It is full of potential."
