The Smoking Camel

The Light Years crew has added another jewel to their crown, with the opening of a bold new Middle Eastern restaurant championing charcoal-grilled cuisine. The aptly named Smoking Camel showcases vibrant interiors, share-style dishes cooked over charcoal and fragrant cocktails, all set against a neon backdrop. 

The adventurous menu leans into the playfulness diners are familiar with at Light Years, whilst using flavours and spices from the likes of Lebanon, Turkey, and Israel to enhance traditional dishes. Must order include the BBQ plates, loaded with share-style delights like baharat spiced beef, shawarma spiced chicken and halloumi and the ‘desert mess’ with baklava gelato, pistachio sand, strawberry, rosewater and honey coco whip.

The kitchen is headed up by Joachim Borenius, after he successfully spearheaded the launch of Light Years Jonson Lane late last year, so you know it's going to be damn good. The unapologetically bold cocktail list stars unexpected flavour profiles, complemented by Lebanese-sourced wines from the Bekaa Valley, one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world, and local beers. 

The 55-seat venue has been transformed from its origins as the first Light Years venue—here you’ll find yourself mesmerised by gilded interiors, curved archways, billowing curtains and cutouts of gold camels that reminscent of vibrant Middle Eastern metropolises.

Image Credit: Jesse Prince