The much-loved Lebanese brand Em Sherif Deli has opened its first branch in Dubai, welcoming diners at One Central, Dubai World Trade Centre. Known in Lebanon for its warm atmosphere and everyday comfort food, the deli now extends its presence to the UAE, offering a taste of home for Lebanese residents and a culinary discovery for new audiences.
Unlike fine dining or banquet settings, a deli is about casual familiarity. Em Sherif Deli captures that spirit with a menu centered on shawarma, mezze, fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. It’s food designed for both quick lunches and relaxed gatherings, echoing the way Lebanese kitchens have always blended generosity with simplicity.
The new Dubai space pairs this culinary approach with a thoughtful design. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, combining the energy of a bustling deli counter with the comfort of a café. The ambience reflects the brand’s philosophy: food should feel welcoming, nostalgic, and rooted in everyday life.
For Lebanese expatriates in Dubai, the opening carries a note of familiarity. Dishes that many associate with Beirut streets and family tables are now part of the city’s international dining scene. For others, it’s an opportunity to discover how a deli can be both casual and refined, bridging the gap between tradition and modern dining culture.
NGNO’s perspective
At NoGarlicNoOnions, we see Em Sherif Deli’s arrival in Dubai as more than just another restaurant opening. It represents a continuation of Lebanese culinary identity abroad, and a reminder of how food connects communities across borders. The deli concept celebrates the everyday side of Lebanese cuisine—less about formality, more about comfort, warmth, and sharing.
As Dubai continues to expand its food landscape, Em Sherif Deli’s presence offers both a familiar taste of Lebanon and an invitation for newcomers to explore what makes our food culture so enduring.
