Shady Chamoun Byblos Cafe and Lounge

Shady Chamoun, Byblos Cafe and Lounge, TREC KL

Shady Chamoun of Byblos Cafe and Lounge at TREC KL shares with The Yum List some stories behind the scenes and what it’s like to be a restaurateur.

What do you do and how did you get into the industry?

I studied hotel management and am an industry veteran. My experience began 15 years ago as a waiter. I quickly moved up to fine dining where I perfected my formal, customer serving approach. Now I run Byblos Cafe and Lounge, a Lebanese restaurant in TREC KL.

Share with us an interesting story from behind the scenes.

Once a woman asked me if I would hand-remove potatoes from her soup for her and then reheat it so that it would be just as hot as it would be if the potatoes were in it. To this day, I still have no idea what that even means.

What’s the best/ worst part of your job?

The best part of my job is meeting many people and building strong, good relationships, which often lead to friendships.
The worst part of my job is when we get a complaint. That is why we try our best every day to keep the guests happy and satisfied with the food and service.

What’s your favourite meal/ drink at Byblos Cafe and Lounge?

My favourite food is the hummus, tabouleh and the raw meat with a glass of arak (Lebanese alcoholic drink).

The perfect day off would be…

… on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Working in a restaurant took holidays with family away from me, as this is when we have more business and we should be ready to work to serve people while they are celebrating. Now I’m used to that and instead celebrate with our guests and friends.

A day in the life of a restauranteur is…

… a day of challenges. Every day is a new day for us. Every day we have to work more to achieve more.

What do you do for fun?

I love to explore new places, travel and party, meet new people and make more friends.

What’s something you’d like guests to know about Byblos Cafe and Lounge?

I’d love people to know more about Lebanon (my country) and visit that place and get to know our traditions and culture.

What’s your favourite food and wine pairing?

My favourite food will always be the Lebanese food and the Lebanese wine. I advise everyone to give it a try.

What’s in store for you in the upcoming months?

Every Sunday we will be having a Latino band starting at 9 pm and every Friday and Saturday night beginning at 11 pm we have a Lebanese singer and belly dancer.

Check out the scrumptious Lebanese food and beverage at Byblos Cafe & Lounge here.

3 Comments

  1. Talk about working his way up, started as a waiter. Handsome bloke.

  2. The behind the scenes story is quite bizarre!

  3. Another interesting interview. Enjoy the weekend Diane

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