Midar - Where the desert meets the sea

Inspired by Kuwait’s Golden Era in the 60s and 70s, Midar brings together the architecture, music, and food celebrated at that time under one roof. Serving fresh, premium Kuwaiti seafood, Midar (translating as “hook” in English) is the prime destination for guests seeking to enjoy the traditional recipes that are widely popular in Kuwait, either in their authentic form or with a modern twist.

In the post oil era, Kuwait saw an influx of cultural and culinary influences, catalyzed by the rise of expatriates. As a major regional seaport, seafood became a central part of the Kuwaiti diet. Midar captures this period of culinary evolution, grounding its cooking techniques in tradition—cooking over fire and smoking over palm leaves, the traditional firewood of choice. Spices are ground fresh and homemade pickles are paired with freshly baked arabic tanour bread.

The aim was to provide a harmonious environment that mirrors its food offering and the challenge was to draw from diverse elements. This was achieved by forging a connection between the desert and the sea. This duality is echoed in Midar’s interior, which stylishly melds modern and traditional elements.

The architectural construct of the space is inspired by Kuwait’s desert origin and its brutal urban landscape. The color palette is earthy, with traditional breeze blocks adorning the ceiling—an homage to local heritage. These elements are complemented by fishing-inspired features like an oxidized fishing net ceiling installation and Calcatta marble slabs cut into the shape of fish scales. Materials suggestive of prosperity were used to create a comforting, homely ambiance.

Functionally, Midar's design navigates the challenges of a triangular 245 sqm unit, effectively utilizing every corner. Key features include a live arabic bread tanour oven, fresh spices and retail counters, a fish display, live grill, and beverage counter each strategically positioned, enhancing the customer experience and operational efficiency. Each zone was carefully planned to optimize the space and offer diverse experiences for returning guests.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Midar's design through the use of local craftsmanship. From furniture pieces to pottery, all are locally sourced, supporting local artisans and minimizing carbon footprint. Natural materials like green riviera onyx, smoked aged solid walnut wood, and bush hammered aged brass blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious textural landscape.

Midar is more than a restaurant—it's a celebration of Kuwait’s cultural heritage and its journey through time. It offers a renewed way of enjoying seafood, pairing it with a rich tapestry of architectural and cultural influences. The design embodies the spirit of the golden era, capturing its essence in a modern and accessible setting, offering guests a taste of Khaleeji food in an upscale but relaxed environment.