bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 INTERVIEW 13 A Taste of Versailles Bringing a slice of French charm to the Kingdom, Café Trianon is a personal passion project of Mohamed Almoayyed, inspired by a deep love for France and hospitality. Opened in April, Café Trianon is a Frenchinspired boutique café born out of Mr. Almoayyed’s decade-long love with French culture, cuisine and history. Located in Riffa, the café captures the spirit of French elegance through its design, concept and culinary offering. The idea took root after Mr. Almoayyed and his wife purchased and renovated a property in the Champagne region of France more than 10 years ago. The experience sparked a desire to bring a taste of that lifestyle back home: “It was a beautiful adventure,” he says. “It involved French history, culture, the way of living and of course the food. What better way to share that than through a French-inspired café?” The name ‘Trianon’ itself draws from the grandeur of Versailles. “The Petit and Grand Trianon were pleasure residences for French royalty,” he explains. “We chose the name to reflect some of that glamour and charm. For me personally, it symbolises my love for France and everything it represents.” In January 2025, Mr. Almoayyed was awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honour by French President Emmanuel Macron, becoming a Knight (Chevalier) of France’s highest order of merit. In December 2021, Mr. Almoayyed was named Citoyen d’Honneur – an honorary citizen – of the French town Saint Lumier la Populeuse. Although the café only officially opened last month, it has already hosted a number of exclusive events over the past year, including themed dinners, fundraisers and international collaborations. The menu at Café Trianon is carefully curated to appeal to lovers of French cuiine. “We merge classic French dishes with modern flair,” Mr. Almoayyed says. “Every dish is a signature piece, made with total attention to detail. It should delight the eyes as much as the palate.” While a professional team handles the day-today operations, Mr. Almoayyed remains actively involved. “I enjoy being hands-on with Trianon and Teatro, our Italian coffeeshop next door,” he shares. “Every detail matters – from the service to the long-term vision.” Venturing into the F&B sector was a new venture for him. “It wasn’t something I initially planned, but my passion for entertaining and good food led me here,” he admits. “I’ve been lucky to meet the right professionals along the way.” Outside of business, Mr. Almoayyed draws inspiration from French history, architecture and literature. “I taught myself French just to better enjoy those interests,” he says. His love for nature and reading also stems from his parents – his father’s passion for books and his mother’s dedication to gardening. Looking ahead, Mr. Almoayyed intends to preserve Café Trianon’s one-of-a-kind charm: “There are no plans for branches or franchises. I want it to remain a unique destination that reflects everything I love.” - Mohamed Almoayyed DID YOU KNOW?
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