Charbel Mhanna, Chief Executive Officer of Blackspoon, is renowned as a visionary in the food world, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region’s evolving F&B landscape. As the CEO of Blackspoon, he leads one of the region’s most prominent restaurant groups, overseeing a portfolio that includes Allo Beirut, Bombay Bungalow, Michelin Guide-listed Ibn AlBahr, and MASTI. Under his leadership, the group continues to expand across the GCC, driving business development, chain expansion, and operational excellence.
A results-driven leader, Mhanna, with the support of his team, successfully steered Bombay Bungalow into Dubai’s first-ever Michelin Guide. The group’s popular Lebanese street food concept, Allo Beirut, has earned multiple accolades, including ‘Best Budget’ and ‘Best Lebanese Restaurant’ year after year. Additionally, Ibn AlBahr has retained its Michelin Bib Gourmand status for three consecutive years, further cementing its reputation as a premier seafood destination.
At the core of Blackspoon’s rapid growth is Charbel’s focus on innovation and digital transformation. He oversees the group’s technological evolution, leveraging big data and analytics to optimise budget control, enhance operational efficiency, and streamline processes.
Complementing his analytical approach, Charbel is also a culinary innovator. His complex menu development process has introduced a diverse and flavourful range of dishes, appealing to the UAE’s multicultural audience. A hands-on leader, he often steps into the kitchen, refining menu offerings to ensure they meet high standards of taste and quality.
Charbel Mhanna’s visionary leadership has propelled Blackspoon Group to new heights, with significant achievements in 2023 and 2024. In 2023, Charbel led the expansion of Ibn AlBahr to a second location in Dubai Creek, reinforcing its status as a premier seafood destination. The Allo Beirut brand extended its presence with new outlets in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia. Under Charbel’s leadership, the Ibn AlBahr menu was elevated, enhancing the ultimate seafood experience for diners.
In 2024, Ibn AlBahr expanded into Batroun Lebanon, broadening its regional influence. A landmark moment came with Jadwa Investment Co.’s acquisition of Blackspoon Group, significantly strengthening the group’s F&B portfolio. This strategic acquisition aligns with Jadwa’s focus on the GCC consumer sector and includes ambitious plans to launch new Allo Beirut branches in Riyadh and expand further across the region.
Charbel Mhanna’s dynamic leadership, strategic foresight, and ability to scale operations within a competitive industry solidify his status as an F&B All-Star. His unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, innovation, and expansion has positioned Blackspoon Group as a market leader, making him a standout figure in the Middle East’s restaurant industry.
