Mayor

When The Village opened in Dbayeh many hoped that the complex would offer something new to Lebanon’s nightlife scene. Yes, the real estate has been attractively landscaped with open water shallows and colorful mosaic inlays but environment alone isn’t enough to keep people coming. Why make the trip to Dbayeh just to find the same carbon copy chains that are already closer to home? Fortunately, the Mayor has it where it counts.

While many bistros in Lebanon survive by cashing in on existing trends few manage to actually push the boundaries and become trendsetters themselves. A visit to Mayor is a drive worth taking that will set your taste buds free from the shackles of more conventional bars. With a diverse resume of backgrounds their creative team has delivered nine signature cocktails that are unique in flavor, and especially, presentation. Take for example The Goldfish, which was inspired by travels through Thailand where drinks are generally served in plastic bags. This cocktail is apportioned in a ziplock with an orange slice that, at first glance through the opaque plastic, looks strikingly like a pet store goldfish. One of the most popular drinks, the Chaquila, is a mix of tequila with sweetness from mango and a hint of spice from fresh chilies. The cocktail is delivered in a sealed birdcage.  It’s easy to see the amount of thought that have been put into the drinks at the Mayor as they are designed to engage as many senses as possible. Their mixologists have used several essences to accent the cocktails with aroma as well as fire and smoke to enhance the visual experience.

Like all Lebanese bars these days however, the Mayor’s design was meant to make patrons feel “at home.” The roomy interior ensures that people can mingle and navigate the venue without too much elbow jabbing. Although stylish the furniture is a little less creative than the drinks and their DJs are encouraged to alternate between classic tunes and funk. It’s a bit of an unusual combination, but then again, maybe that’s exactly what the Mayor is all about.