Last updated on October 6th, 2025
Both the Phoenicia and Le Vendome are part of the Intercontinental hotel group in Beirut and they’re both quite near one another. I have yet to experience a stay at Le Vendome but my people tell me it’s more of a boutique experience. Alas, Le Vendome has a notorious restaurant on the top floor called Sydney’s.
Apparently, Sydney was the name of the bartender that once worked there years ago. He was beloved by the community and often people would tell others that they were “going to Sydney’s.” Over time, the name stuck and now his legacy is carried on.
The first thing you’ll notice about the restaurant is the amazing view of the sea. Obviously, Pierre got the best table right beside the window. Even just sitting there and enjoying a drink is absolutely amazing.
Soon after our welcome drink it was time to order. I relied on the experience of our very friendly server. He recommended a few appetizers that turned out to be great. Out of the four the tacos were my favorite. Delicious. One salad was a bit overly sour (and I usually love sour) but after I told the server he was quick to have the kitchen remake it. The newer version was perfect and I commend them for this great service.
The wine that they selected for the meal paired effortlessly. A mix of Lebanese wine and foreign. I ordered a steak which at that time was the best steak I had in Beirut. It was cooked to perfection. Just how I like it with lots of pink inside. It just melted in my mouth.
To finish the meal we had some magnificent desserts. The desserts will go down in infamy. I ordered the Creme brulee tartlet. Just look at how beautiful it is! The taste was absolutely fabulous and to top it off they brought out some trays of other desserts. Of course you have to end every meal with a shot of espresso to get all the cylinders firing!
All in all, the meal was out of this world. Yes, there was a little stutter step in the beginning with the overly sour salad but they were quick to correct it and adjusted for my taste buds. This is the perfect place for almost all occasions and I highly recommend it. The view is magnificent, the food very tasty, the decor beautiful and wonderful service to top it off. A must try in Pierre’s book!
The Nitty Gritty
Taste - 9.2
Value - 8.4
Feng Shui - 9
Convenience - 9
Service - 9.4
9
Amazing Beirut!
Restaurant
Rafic E Hariri Street، بيروت، Lebanon
Phone: +961 (0)1 368 800
