People

Unlike the overhyped fashion retailer it sprang from, the recently relocated fusion cafeÌ� hasn’t gotten as much attention as it may deserve.
People has moved its operation next door, abandoning its old location for the third floor of Aishti boutique. Although its interior and architecture is nowhere near as cool as Bernard Khoury’s floating black box design, the alternative location still gives you a nice view of the sea and cityscape. As a lunchtime venue, People is a cut above the rest; so much so that for a few minutes, you feel like you’re out of town. The brasserie offers prize nosh. The tuna tartar is beautifully concocted – even a vegetarian wouldn’t be able to tell there’s fish in there. Seasoned with lemon zest, chilli powder and herbs, the combination of aubergine purée, fresh tuna and Parmesan cheese is brilliance at its best. The seafood pastas are what this fancy cake was built for. Both risottos are glorious – perfectly al dente and creamy. Though the squid ink risotto is excellent, it’s not the smartest choice if you’re on a date or a business lunch. Keep your teeth white and sparkly and go for the option with herb-grilled jumbo shrimps and Ossau-Iraty cheese shavings. For something just as glorious, try the juicy lobster linguini. Though the dish costs a little over $40, the portion can be enough for two and incorporates a lavish amount of lobster and crushed tomato sauce. The kitchen opens for lunch only but offers salads, sandwiches and desserts between four o’clock and half past six. The chocolate tart with banana-rum ice cream alone is worth the trip. Made from pure cocoa bean in a crust that’s perfectly soft and crumbly, the gilded chocolate tart is a whole new level of food porn, earning the experience altogether an honourable five stars.

(04 725725) Aishti Seaside, Jal el Dib Hwy. Daily 12.30pm-4pm, snacks 12.30pm-6.30pm. Meal for two with drinks LL190,000.