Lebanese chain with restaurants across London targets Midlands expansion

London’s Comptoir Libanais is opening its first eatery in the West Midlands.

The Lebanese-style chain will open a 3,047 sq ft venue at Grand Central in Birmingham next month.

Located next to Indian street food brand Mowgli, Comptoir Libanais will have enough space for around 100 guests and feature a small ‘souk’ or market where customers can buy ingredients, homeware and gifts such as branded cookbooks.

Tony Kitous, who founded Comptoir Libanais in 2008, said: “I’ve always dreamt of creating a traditional Lebanese restaurant where everyone can eat and drink in humble and friendly surroundings, and I am so excited to now bring the warm Middle Eastern hospitality and way of life to brand new guests in Birmingham.

“Grand Central’s position above the busy New Street Station and adjacent to Bullring makes it the perfect location for our first restaurant in the West Midlands.”

The shopping and dining complex, launched in 2015, is owned by property investment giant Hammerson.

Sarah Fox, head of restaurants and leisure at Hammerson, commented: “We are delighted to kick off 2018 by announcing that Comptoir Libanais has chosen Grand Central to open its first restaurant in the region.

“The brand’s authentic offer is a unique addition that will further diversify the impressive dining line-up at Grand Central and illustrates the strength of Grand Central both as a retail and dining destination, and as a key regional travel hub.”

Comptoir Libanais will open its doors at Grand Central in March.