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One would never imagine eating gourmet food at an airport especially in Beirut. How great would it be to enjoy a real airy croissant made from real butter, a crunchy sandwich baked the same morning and stuffed with the finest of ingredients, a piece of exceptional cake created by none other than Chef Charles Azar accompanied by a freshly brewed coffee?... All of the above can be found in Beirut at Salt, the restaurant located on the first floor.
I’ve been here several times already and even wrote a detailed review last year. Today I’m back to enjoy a hefty breakfast on my way to the States. The croissant, the sandwich, the fruit bowl and coffee were all memorable. Meeting my friend chef Camille Wehbe, executive at the airport’s restaurants, he tells me about his products. None are below class A quality. “The finest of everything” is the direction!
I’m sure you’re going to ask about the high prices found at the airport... indeed, high like all airports around the world, priced because of the high rent imposed by the airport authority. It’s simply a matter of national corruption!
Let’s enjoy a tasty breakfast few restaurants in the local territory provide. With a wide smile on their face, professionally trained to handle customers in style, the staff at Salt helped me order breakfast.
Very few times in my life I’ve had the chance to enjoy such beautiful art... it’s not just a croissant, it’s a living creation coming to life every single morning. A beehive of airy bubbles trapped inside a croissant. More than seventy percent butter helps make of this morning treat an experience for the eyes and soul while pleasing your taste buds. A dozen layers of flaky puff pastry... I was so happy to discover such a marvelous piece of beauty which can be enjoyed plain or stuffed with chocolate, zaatar, cheese or walnuts. I would say that the walnut croissant is my favorite.
The açaí bowl followed. A thick pudding of chia seeds and acai served in a glass bowl decorated with bananas and strawberries. It’s different from the one I have in New York which feels fresher and lighter but has its special touch. Intensely flavorful, the mix is served with maple syrup on the side adding the needed sweetness. A vegan treat loaded with vitamins.
Loved the sandwiches. Fresh bread stuffed with layers of ham and vegetables and served with a side salad. It offers all the flavors you expect but lacks that punch of juiciness. I’d recommend you ask for a side order of mustard and another of cherry jam. Spread one on each of the two halves and enjoy a sandwich ten times better with these than without. Mustard makes it feel French and classy. Jam adds an addictive sweetness making you want to devour it in seconds.
Give Salt a try, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Gourmet... at the airport!
