Zali is the realization of a dream more than 30 years in the making—one that began in a family kitchen in Beirut. Like families everywhere, we grew up believing that our mother’s cooking was simply the best. That belief became the foundation of Zali, where authentic Lebanese food is crafted with love, memory, and tradition, and proudly shared today in Abu Dhabi.
Our Chef: The Heartbeat of Inspiration
At the heart of Zali is our chef, Liza—an anagram of Zali and the soul behind every dish. A Lebanese-Armenian who has spent most of her life in Lebanon, Liza’s journey began at home as a devoted mother and grandmother. For years, her passion for Lebanese food lived within her kitchen walls, where she experimented with family recipes, perfected flavors, and documented her creations.
Zali gave her the opportunity to bring that homegrown passion to the world. Today, every plate reflects her heritage, warmth, and deep connection to Lebanese culinary traditions—allowing guests in Abu Dhabi to experience Lebanese food exactly as it’s meant to be: honest, comforting, and full of soul.
From Lebanon to Abu Dhabi—And Beyond
Every dish we serve carries flavors that have made the journey all the way from Lebanon. And for those who wish to take a taste of Lebanon home, we offer something truly special.
Mouneh: A Taste of Lebanese Tradition
We call it Mouneh—an Arabic word meaning pantry provisions. Mouneh is a cherished Lebanese tradition of preserving food across the seasons, ensuring that authentic flavors can be enjoyed year-round. Our Mouneh collection features a variety of homemade jars filled with preserved and dried delicacies, carefully prepared by our more info chef or sourced directly from farmers in Lebanon.
Whether you’re dining at Zali in Abu Dhabi or bringing our Mouneh home with you, you’re experiencing genuine Lebanese food rooted in family, heritage, and time-honored traditions.