Y by Yabani Gefinor

The wait is over. Those lamenting the lack of good sushi outside the Downtown and Ashrafieh areas can rest easy: Yabani has landed in Hamra. And we couldn’t think of a better way to usher in the new year. With one other branch at the Beirut Souks district Downtown, sushi lovers will rejoice. Offering their trademark selection of fresh maki rolls, sashimi and other Japanese fare in a refined atmosphere, this restaurant is well on its way to becoming a go-to Japanese spot in Hamra.

Set in the Gefinor center, nestled between the American University of Beirut Medical Center and a plethora of business offices, the lunch time crowd at Y by Yabani’s new venue is likely to include doctors, bankers and flight attendants galore so be prepared to rub elbows with suits, scrubs and sexy uniforms. You don’t mind, do you? We thought so. As if that weren’t enough, the place has a happy hour every Tuesday and Thursday from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Be sure to make reservations as the restaurant is understandably packed at those times. Delivery services are available.