PHILADELPHIA - Fishtown's beloved Lebanese dining destination, Suraya, is preparing to host a one-night-only culinary event that seamlessly bridges the vibrant flavors of the Levant with coastal Mexican cuisine. On Tue, September 22, the restaurant will welcome Chef Alejandra "Ale" Kuri from Austin, Texas, for a highly anticipated collaboration dinner.
A Collision of Coastal Mexican and Levantine Flavors: Suraya to Host Exclusive Collaboration Dinner with Austin's Chef Ale Kuri
Chef Kuri, the creative force behind Austin's Michelin-recognized seafood standout Este and the forthcoming Middle Eastern concept Karaz, brings a deeply personal culinary perspective. As a third-generation Lebanese-Mexican who grew up immersed in Mexico City's bustling markets and her family's catering business, her cooking is a vibrant celebration of both her cultural heritage and professional expertise.
The collaboration with Suraya—which draws its soul from the multigenerational family recipes of Defined Hospitality partner Roland Kassis, whose roots trace back to Lebanon's Zahlé region—presents a natural yet wildly inventive culinary pairing.
The Menu: A Cross-Cultural Feast
Ahead of opening Karaz in Austin, Chef Kuri is teaming up with Suraya's culinary team to curate a special three-course menu that weaves together Este's coastal Mexican flair, Karaz's Middle Eastern influences, and Suraya's mastery of Levantine traditions.
Course 1: Seafood Platter & Dips. The evening kicks off with an expansive sharing platter. Diners will enjoy braised clams, raw oysters, a Samake Nayeh tostada, and crab-stuffed grape leaves. Classic Levantine spreads will get a unique, cross-cultural twist, featuring hummus topped with tender barbacoa lamb, labneh paired with tomato confit, and a refreshing fattouch salad—all served with freshly baked pita.
Course 2: Entrées & Sides. For the main course, guests will enjoy a vibrant array of wood-fired and coastal dishes, including a stunning grape leaf-wrapped branzino, succulent ribeye kebabs, savory oyster mushrooms, and perfectly grilled cabbage.
Course 3: Dessert. The meal concludes with an indulgent dessert course that perfectly captures the evening's fusion theme. The sweet lineup includes flan accented with crunchy kataifi, pecan ma'amoul, nut baklava, playful pistachio-stuffed baby churros, or a light, refreshing sorbet.
Event Details
This exclusive, one-night-only dinner takes place in Fishtown on Sunday, September 22. Tickets are available for $125 per person. Reservations are highly recommended and can be booked directly through Suraya's website.