Eating out

A Mediterranean dream

January 30 - February 5, 2025
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Gulf Weekly A Mediterranean dream
Gulf Weekly A Mediterranean dream
Gulf Weekly A Mediterranean dream
Gulf Weekly A Mediterranean dream
Gulf Weekly A Mediterranean dream


DINING at Lyra Bahrain is an experience that lingers long after the last bite. Set within the elegant Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain, a chic beachfront hotel, Lyra transports you to the sun-drenched isles of Greece with its earthy tones, sophisticated marble interiors, and warm ambient lighting. The outdoor seating, adorned with prism heaters and surrounding lush greenery, makes for the perfect setting; whether it’s a romantic date night or a gathering with family and friends. 

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with impeccable hospitality. Our server, Jay, provided attentive fine-dining service, ensuring that each course arrived with perfect timing, whilst also swiftly clearing the table in between courses. Every dish, meticulously crafted by renowned Greek chef Ilias Tasioulas, showcased authentic Mediterranean flavours elevated to a level of refined indulgence. 

Lyra Bahrain’s bar offers an exquisite selection of muddled drinks and expertly crafted libations, each designed to highlight the freshest ingredients and bold cuisine. Whether you prefer a refreshing citrus-infused spritz, a herbaceous creation, or a smoky, barrel-aged classic, the skilled mixologists are ready to tailor each drink to your personal preferences.

We began with the classic Greek salad, a beautifully simple yet vibrant dish. The juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy red onions, and briny green olives were brought to life by creamy feta cheese and fragrant oregano. It was a refreshing prelude to the feast ahead. Next came the Lyra Tarama, a delicacy that set a high bar for the evening. The smoked fish roe was expertly blended with potato, lemon, and dill, creating a creamy, umami-rich spread that paired beautifully with warm pita and focaccia bread. 

The Sea Bream Crudo was a standout starter, offering a delicate yet fiery combination of flavours. The fresh, silky slices of sea bream were beautifully balanced by the crisp bitterness of endives, while the chilli and soy dressing added a delicious kick that lingered just long enough to excite the palate. A sprinkle of sesame brought a subtle nuttiness, tying the dish together

For a savoury contrast, we indulged in the crispy courgettes, a standout from the mezze selection. Golden and light, the courgettes had a perfect crunch, complemented by a silky tzatziki dip and the nutty component of Graviera cheese, finished with a sprinkle of fresh oregano. 

Next up, our taste buds were wowed by the Lyra Moussaka, one of the restaurant’s bestsellers. This exquisite dish is an easy 10/10, with its savoury beef bolognese, a tantalisingly spicy tomato sauce, and layers of silky aubergine. The pièce de résistance is the decadent truffle béchamel, all artfully presented for a delicious yet Instagrammable moment.

The lamb shoulder was nothing short of spectacular. Slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb was fall-apart tender, its richness balanced by the earthy black-eyed beans and the fiery harissa sauce. The rosemary-infused lamb jus tied everything together, making each bite a harmonious infusion of flavours. For seafood lovers, the grilled sea bass was a revelation. Perfectly charred, the fish was moist and flaky, served alongside grilled courgettes, olives, and confit tomatoes that added bursts of sweetness and acidity. A hint of lemon and basil elevated the dish, making it a Mediterranean dream. 

To accompany our mains, we ordered the grilled mushrooms; tender chestnut mushrooms drizzled with a bold mustard dressing and fresh parsley. Simple yet full of depth, it was the ideal side to complement the heartier dishes. 

No Greek feast is complete without dessert, and Lyra’s offerings did not disappoint. The chocolate tart was a decadent delight, with a crisp chocolate sable base, crunchy wafer layers, and a luscious baked ganache. The addition of vanilla blossom ice cream added a creamy contrast, making it an instant favourite. Meanwhile, the baklava mille-feuille was an artful reimagination of the classic baklava. Caramelised filo pastry provided the perfect crunch, while the velvety vanilla blossom ice cream and fragrant rose jam added a delicate sweetness that lingered on the palate. 

The breathtaking ambience, flawless service, and Chef Ilias’ masterful creations make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic yet modern Greek dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner under the stars or a vibrant night out with loved ones, Lyra delivers on every front. Don’t walk, run!

n For reservations call 17778822, WhatsApp 33648822 or email reservations@lyra-restaurant.com and check out @lyra_restaurant on Instagram for the latest updates and offers.







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