A TALE OF 12,000 YEARS OF CULINARY HERITAGE
— A Story of Migration & return —
Lebanon lies in the Fertile Crescent, where farming first emerged 12,000 years ago and reshaped human history. From this land came more than ingredients; it gave rise to hospitality: an ancient rhythm of generosity, gathering, and shared meals that shaped what we now call cuisine. From these shores, our ancestors set sail, carrying wine, olive oil, and the world’s first alphabet, weaving Lebanon into the fabric of Western civilization.
At Raffiné, we carry this legacy not only as chefs or restaurateurs, but as inheritors of this land. Our menus trace the landscapes that shaped flavors and techniques that traveled far beyond their origin. Each expression is grounded in the ecological systems that shape this territory.
This is a story of migration and return.
12,000 years later, the story is still unfolding, and we invite you to become part of it.
The Study
— Research —
Guided by the vertical geography of Lebanon, we interpret the territory through expressions shaped by altitude, climate, and millennia of human cultivation. Our work engages agricultural and ecological systems directly, examining ingredients in their natural context to document how landscape defines flavor across our mountains, valleys, and coast.
This interdisciplinary inquiry is led in collaboration with Dr. Dominique Dano (Food Science) and Dr. Semona Issa Slorbak (Ecological Sciences), alongside local communities, artists, and researchers. By translating territory, history, and science into gastronomy, Raffiné remains a constantly evolving study.
Lebanon Vertically
This work maps the interactions between land, people, and cultivation, revealing the historical, cultural, and biological dimensions of the territory.
From the Mediterranean coast to the peaks of Mount Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley
The Raffiné Philosophy
ORIGINIST CUISINE
A Dialogue Between Taste, Memory, and Time
Dining, for us, is a continuation of a dialogue that began thousands of years ago between people, cultures, and time.
From the shores of Lebanon came some of the world’s first networks of exchange that travelled across the sea and shaped how people connected and created.
Raffiné continues that legacy through Originist Cuisine: an exploration of civilisation’s beginnings, told through Lebanon’s three landscapes: the fertile valleys of the earth, the mountains of the land, and the coasts of the sea.
Each represents a chapter in humanity’s oldest journey from cultivation to connection, from roots to voyage.
We follow a belief: that gastronomy, wine, and art, as reflections of civilisation, can reconnect us to the stories that shaped who we became, and to the origins we carry within us.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
LOCATION
Raffiné is located in central Oslo, a short walk from major attractions and public transport.
Address: Universitetsgata 7, 0164 Oslo.
LARGE GROUPS & CORPORATE
Raffiné is a great choice for celebrations, corporate gatherings, and private events. Make a reservation or contact us at [email protected]
DIETARY PREFERENCES
Raffiné’s menu includes a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian-friendly options, reflecting the inclusive nature of Lebanese cuisine. Many of our dishes are naturally suitable for different dietary needs, and while we do our best to accommodate allergies, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
Please note that we do not serve halal meat. Guests who prefer seafood or vegetarian choices will find our Mezze by the Sea and Mezze by the Earth menus well suited to their preferences.
Families & Kids
Due to the intimate atmosphere at Raffiné, we are unable to accommodate children or provide child seating. We appreciate your understanding as we aim to maintain a refined and tranquil environment for all our guests.