During my stay at the InterContinental resort, one of Red Sea Global’s summer destinations, I dined at Darein, a Levantine-Moroccan fusion restaurant whose name translates to “the two houses,” a nod to the meeting of two cuisines.
The space blends Moroccan mosaic tiles, traditional teapots and clay tagines with the unmistakable aroma of Levantine barbecue drifting from the kitchen.
The menu leans toward Levantine classics, subtly reworked with Moroccan touches.
We began with tabbouleh and hummus, though neither was quite what you would expect. The tabbouleh swapped tradition for a mix of bulgur, red currants and preserved lemons. It tasted brighter and sharper than usual, with a gentle sweet-and-sour note that made it refreshing.
The hummus, topped with whipped aquafaba, caught me off guard at first, but it turned out to be one of the creamiest and richest versions I have tried.
For mains, I chose the chargrilled wagyu skewer and lamb chops. Both were tender, well-seasoned and carried a strong, smoky barbecue flavor. The wagyu arrived on a heated plate that kept it warm throughout the meal, a thoughtful touch, though the portion felt slightly small.
Dessert was a saffron creme brulee, beautifully presented with a delicate red edible lattice on top. While visually impressive, the saffron flavor slightly overpowered the classic creaminess of the dessert. The sugar topping could also have been torched a little more for that satisfying crack.
Breakfast the next morning was served at Darein as well and lived up to the InterContinental standard, with a modern edge. The open buffet offered a wide range of cheeses, dairy options, cakes, muffins, Danish pastries and breads.
One highlight was the charcuterie selection, which included a dry-cured leg of sheep. Its rustic exterior contrasted with a deeply flavored, tender interior, a memorable addition to the spread.
I also tried msemen, the traditional Moroccan layered flatbread, pan-fried until golden and crisp. It was dusted with powdered sugar and served with almond butter and organic honey on the side. Sweet, rich and comforting, it is the kind of breakfast that gives you an energy boost to start the day.
With the resort set along the beach, the overall ambiance feels elegant yet relaxed. The Mediterranean-inspired interior carries a calm, intimate mood, while soft lighting that shifts with the daylight adds warmth to the space.
