The story of ilili is embedded in a rich heritage of Lebanese cuisine and hospitality, dating back over 100 years and covering three generations of the Massoud family. A story that begins inside the walls of Beirut’s most iconic hotel and finds its way to the bustling streets of NYC.

ilili means tell me in colloquial Lebanese and speaks of the generous spirit of the Lebanese people and their cuisine. Thanks to a relentless commitment to authenticity and quality, ilili has truly lived up to its name.

Today, ilili has achieved world renown, has proven its staying power, and is considered the premier institution for Lebanese food culture and hospitality values in NYC. Philippe and ilili are credited with launching a Lebanese cuisine renaissance, and many Lebanese Chefs today use ilili as an inspirational platform. It is New York’s go-to restaurant for sophisticated Lebanese cuisine, and with its acceptance at the upper echelons of New York’s dining scene has achieved what no other Lebanese restaurant has ever been able to.

We are driven to act as hosts to bring simultaneously meaning and joy into our guests’ and our lives. Care and generosity are at the heart of who we are as individuals, and at the heart of our hospitality.

We are proud, we love what we do, and we want to share it with everyone.