Lebanese Culinary Ventures – Paris 2023
Lebanese-French culinary Fusion at FRNJI in Paris
The name “FRNJI” itself is an homage to the French baguette. It encapsulates the founders’ love for Lebanese flavors. It opened in October 2023.
Dedicated to introducing the richness of Lebanese culture with a unique twist, FRNJI promises an authentic experience.
Eliane Haddad, co-owner of FRNJI, expressed the rationale behind choosing Paris, particularly the fifth district: “Opening our first flagship in Paris and, more specifically, in the fifth district was an obvious choice. The area is designed to appeal to diverse ethnic affiliations, with a mission to offer flavorful meals at reasonable prices.”
The restaurant’s motto states that FRNJI is simply Lebanese sandwiches with a French accent. Thus, it encapsulates the vision of harmoniously blending Lebanese and French culinary influences.
FRNJI restaurant aims to create a unique dining experience, where the fusion of Lebanese and French flavors takes center stage.
Une Kaake a Paris offers a unique culinary blend in the heart of Paris
Culinary enthusiasts in Paris have a new reason to rejoice at Une Kaake a Paris. The restaurant offers a delightful blend of kaake with the diverse flavors of French, Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Thus, this addition aims to infuse the spirit of the city into every colorful and flavorful creation.
Une Kaake a Paris is a labor of love. Having opened in October 2023, it is committed to providing patrons with a one-of-a-kind experience filled with freshness and fast in-house preparations.
Tarek Demian, the founder, stated: “What an amazing ride it’s been bringing Une Kaake to Paris. We chose Paris because it’s all about good food and trying new things. We were really surprised to find out that while people here love Lebanese cuisine. Although, they hadn’t tried kaake before. So, we thought, why not be the first to bring it here?”
Demian added: “I’ve got to give a big shoutout to my dad and our amazing team. Without their support and hard work, we couldn’t have pulled this off. Furthermore, the portions we serve are pretty generous, so you’ll leave here with a happy, satisfied belly. We’re not just another Lebanese place. We’re notably a fun food adventure that we can’t wait to share with the awesome folks in Paris.”
Maison Si Bon sweetens Parisian palates
Maison Si Bon, the renowned Lebanese pastry and ice-cream chain, has extended its offerings to the heart of Paris. The shop boasts a successful legacy spanning 15 years and seven branches. It celebrated the grand opening of its first Parisian branch on September 5, 2023.
Tony Abi Nader, operations manager of Maison Si Bon, shared insights into the strategic expansion beyond Lebanon’s borders. Furthermore, he emphasized the brand’s role as a cultural ambassador for Lebanese sweets and ice cream. “Our focus in Paris is exclusively on presenting our expertise in these two categories, emphasizing the authentic flavors and craftsmanship that define Maison Si Bon.”
Furthermore, the choice of location for the Paris branch was deliberate, aiming to enhance the brand’s global standing. Maalouf explained: “We selected a prime spot at 71 Rue De Sèvres in the 6ème arrondissement. We made sure to place Maison Si Bon in the company of the world’s most successful brands. Thus, this move aligns with our goal to elevate our brand equity on an international scale.”
Looking ahead, Abi Nader outlined future plans for Maison Si Bon’s expansion. “Our goal is to continue working diligently to expand the chain in France and explore opportunities in other countries. We are committed to achieving our objectives and introducing the world to the irresistible charm of Maison Si Bon.”
Lebanese Culinary Ventures – Paris 2022
In 2022, Paris welcomed a trio of exciting Lebanese culinary ventures. Rifai France, a haven for nuts, dried fruits and seeds, opened its doors in July at two prime locations – 109 Avenue Victor Hugo and 22 Rue Vieille du Temple.
Furthermore, Baltis Paris, specializing in artisan Lebanese ice cream, delighted taste buds with its May debut. It inaugurated its branches at 27 Rue Saint Antoine and 54 Rue Tiquetonne.
Meanwhile, Raad Four Libanais brought the vibrant flavors of Lebanese street food to the scene in April. It set up shop at 116 Rue Amelot.
These new additions reflect the city’s ever-growing gastronomic diversity.
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About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
