I’m always on the lookout for places that bring unique global flavors to my doorstep as a lover of diverse cultures. As I traveled through Lagos, I discovered Leila Min Lebnen, a Lebanese restaurant that transports you straight to Lebanon. Here, the aromas, colors, and textures of the Middle East meet the vibrant spirit of Lagos. Here’s everything you need to know about this culinary haven.
What Makes Leila Min Lebnen Stand Out?
Leila Min Lebnen, located in the heart of Lagos, is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Lebanese food or new to it, this place offers something for everyone. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with a blend of warmth and sophistication, much like the Lebanese culture itself.
Open: Monday-Sun: From 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Address:Â 864B Bishop Aboyade Cole, V.I
Phone:Â +234 803 579 1444
Instagram:Â @leilalinlebnen.lagos
The Ambiance at Leila Min Lebnen
Walking into Leila Min Lebnen, you’re instantly enveloped by the cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The interior is a delightful mix of traditional Lebanese touches and modern design elements, with earthy tones and wooden accents blending seamlessly with bold patterns and plush seating. The soft lighting creates an inviting space for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.
The restaurant’s layout includes both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a setting that suits their mood. Whether you’re here for a quiet evening or a lively lunch with friends, you’ll feel at home.
The Menu
The food is the heart of the experience. Every dish at Leila Min Lebnen is crafted with authenticity and passion. Leila Min Lebnen excels in delivering fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and a balance of spices in Lebanese cuisine.
From the creamy hummus to the delicate tabbouleh, every dish feels like a celebration of Lebanese culinary heritage. My personal favorite was the Shawarma, which was tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Pair it with a glass of freshly prepared Ayran (a yogurt-based drink), and you’ve got a meal that’s nothing short of spectacular.
The menu also features a selection of appetizers, grilled meats, seafood, and rich desserts like Baklava and Knafeh—all made with love and attention to detail. And, of course, there’s no shortage of fresh bread and dips to accompany your meal.
Prices: Reasonably Priced Lebanese Cuisine
One of the things that really impressed me about Leila Min Lebnen was the reasonable pricing for such an authentic experience. Given the quality of the food and the upscale setting, I was pleasantly surprised that the prices didn’t break the bank.
Here’s a breakdown of some typical prices on the menu:
| Category | Day | Dish | Description | Price (NGN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Labneh | Creamy Labneh with olive oil. | 6,000.00 | |
| Foul Plate | Fava Beans, Chick Peas, Garlic, Olive Oil, Tahine, Chopped Tomato and Parsley, Salt, Cumin, and Lemon Juice. | 7,500.00 | ||
| Sfeeha Platter | 8 pcs of diced meat with tomato and onion with Leila’s special spices. | 9,000.00 | ||
| Eggs Lamb Confit | Eggs, Olive Oil, Fresh Cream, Salt, Lamb Confit. | 10,000.00 | ||
| Eggs With Sausages | Eggs, Sausages, Olive Oil, Salt, Cinnamon. | Not Specified | ||
| Daily Dish | Monday | Koussa Bl Laban | 12,500.00 | |
| Shish Barak | 8 pieces of stuffed Kebbe with minced meat dipped with cooked yogurt (with garlic) served with white rice aside. | 12,500.00 | ||
| Kibbe Labanieh | 5 pieces of stuffed Kebbe with minced meat dipped with cooked yogurt (with garlic) served with white rice aside. | 12,500.00 | ||
| Chicken & Potato | 12,500.00 | |||
| Kafta Bl Sayniyeh | Goat meat with vegetables and red sauce served with rice. | 12,500.00 | ||
| Wednesday | Dawoud Basha | 12,500.00 | ||
| Kousa & Vine Leaves | 10 pieces of Wara2 3enab stuffed with rice and minced meat, 5 pieces of Kousa stuffed with rice and minced meat, yogurt cup. | 12,500.00 | ||
| Thursday | Molokhieh | Dried molokhieh cooked with chopped sheep meat with minced onion and garlic served with white rice and chicken, plus options for onion seasoning. | 12,500.00 | |
| Malfouf Mehshi | 12,500.00 | |||
| Friday | Siyadieh | Siyadieh rice with fresh slices of lokkoz fish (100 gr), Tajen sauce (sliced onion, tahina, lemon juice). | 12,500.00 | |
| Moujadara | Black lentil with rice and onion with olive oil. Served with salad aside. | 12,500.00 |
Key Takeaways:
- Pros:
- Authentic Lebanese flavors and dishes.
- Warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Reasonably priced for the quality of food.
- Excellent service and friendly staff.
- Cons:
- Limited parking space during peak hours.
- Wait times can be longer on weekends due to popularity.
Personal Experience: Dining at Leila Min Lebnen
During my visit to Leila Min Lebnen, I was immediately drawn to the welcoming service. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, and they were more than happy to explain the different dishes on the menu. After some recommendations, I opted for the Mixed Grill Platter, a beautiful assortment of grilled meats, which included perfectly charred chicken, lamb, and beef skewers, served with a side of rice and fresh salad.
Each bite was a burst of flavors, from the smoky grilled meats to the refreshing dips. For dessert, I couldn’t resist trying the Knafeh—a traditional sweet made with semolina, cheese, and sugar syrup, which was just the right balance of sweetness and texture.
One of the highlights of my meal was how everything was freshly prepared, from the warm pita bread to the vibrant salads. Even the simplest dishes, like the hummus, felt elevated due to the quality of ingredients used.
Review Ratings:
- Ambiance: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Food Quality: 5/5
- Value for Money: 4.5/5
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. Where is Leila Min Lebnen located?
Leila Min Lebnen is located in the Ikoyi area of Lagos, making it accessible for both locals and tourists.
Address:
864B Bishop Aboyade Cole, V.I
2. What are the restaurant’s operating hours?
Leila Min Lebnen is open seven days a week. The typical operating hours are:
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM–10:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
3. Is Leila Min Lebnen vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! There are plenty of vegetarian options on the menu, including the Falafel and Tabbouleh, as well as vegetarian versions of their grilled platters.
4. Does Leila Min Lebnen offer delivery services?
Yes, Leila Min Lebnen offers delivery within Lagos through various food delivery platforms. You can also make reservations for special events.
5. Can I host a private event at Leila Min Lebnen?
Yes, the restaurant has private dining options for events such as birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and family celebrations. It’s a great place for both small and larger events.
Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Leila Min Lebnen?
Without a doubt, Leila Min Lebnen is a must-visit if you’re in Lagos and craving authentic Lebanese cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant offers an unforgettable experience with its fantastic food, beautiful ambiance, and top-notch service. It’s a wonderful place to explore the flavors of Lebanon without leaving the city.
For anyone seeking to broaden their culinary horizons or simply enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal, Leila Min Lebnen delivers on every front. I can’t wait to return and continue discovering new favorites from their menu!
