Lyra, the Greek-Mediterranean beachfront restaurant by award-winning hospitality collective Amriya Group, has been named to the Middle East & North Africa’s 50th Best Restaurants 2026, securing the No. 48 position in its fifth edition. Notably, Lyra is the only restaurant in Bahrain to be recognised on this prestigious list in 2026, reinforcing its status as a national culinary flagbearer and highlighting the Kingdom’s growing presence on the regional dining map. The ranking was unveiled last evening in Abu Dhabi by 50 Best, the organisation behind The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Since opening in October 2024 at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain, Lyra has gained acclaim for its refined interpretation of Greek cuisine, elevated coastal setting, and warm, intuitive hospitality. Rooted in authenticity and craftsmanship, the restaurant has resonated strongly with regional diners seeking both culinary depth and experience-led dining.
Named after the ancient Greek lyre, a timeless symbol of harmony in Greek culture, Lyra reflects a philosophy where culinary artistry and heartfelt hospitality come together. This ethos is reflected in every detail, from the thoughtfully crafted, ingredient-led menu to its relaxed yet sophisticated beachfront setting.
Led by acclaimed Greek Chef Ilias Tasioulas, the menu invites guests on a journey across the Aegean, celebrating seasonal produce, vibrant flavors and a deep respect for tradition, reimagined with modern finesse. Each dish champions simplicity, clarity and provenance, allowing the integrity of Greek cuisine to shine. Led by acclaimed Greek Chef Ilias Tasioulas, Lyra’s menu journeys across the Aegean, guided by seasonal produce, vibrant flavors and a deep respect for provenance. Each dish showcases the purity of Greek cuisine, subtly reimagining tradition for the modern diner.
Lyra’s interiors echo the effortless elegance of the Greek isles, anchored by a sculptural oyster-shell-inspired bar finished with back-lit marble, that opens seamlessly onto the idyllic shores of Marassi Beach, perfect for sunset cocktails, leisurely lunches and starlit dinners. For a more intimate experience, a private dining room nestled within a characterful wine cellar seats up to six guests.
Commenting on the recognition, Khalid Al-Rumaihi, Executive Chairman of Amriya Group, said:
“Being recognized among the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants is a proud moment for Lyra and for Bahrain’s growing culinary scene. Our focus has always been creating homegrown concepts that are deeply rooted in culture, driven by excellence and built around genuine hospitality. This achievement reflects the passion and commitment of our team, who bring that vision to life every day.
Lyra was created to offer an experience that feels both authentic and welcoming where food, design and hospitality come together naturally. This recognition reinforces our belief that thoughtful concepts, delivered with care and consistency, resonate strongly with guests across the region.”
Chef Ilias Tasioulas, Head Chef of Lyra, added:
“Lyra is our personal expression of Greek cuisine shaped by memory, technique and seasonality. We believe in clarity of flavor and letting exceptional ingredients speak for themselves. To see this approach resonate with both our guests, peers and the MENA’s 50 Best community is incredibly rewarding, and inspires us to continue evolving while staying true to our roots.”
Lyra is the second restaurant within the Amriya Group portfolio to be recognized by MENA’s 50 Best, following MASSO, the group’s 15-year-old Riviera-inspired flagship, which earned its place on the list in 2023. Together, the accolades underscore Amriya Group’s growing influence on the region’s hospitality landscape and its continued commitment to distinctive, world-class dining experiences.