When you want something done right, it’s best to go to the source. The Boulevard at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut is now offering – direct from Vienna – the world-famous chocolate cake known as the Sacher-Torte. Since his son Eduard first opened the Hotel Sacher in Vienna in 1876, this wonderful delicacy has been created by hand according to Franz Sacher’s original recipe, and it is now available to guests of Four Seasons.

“Sacher-Torte is the aristocrat of Viennese cakes and a legendary Viennese treasure,” notes Stefan Simkovics, general manager of Four Seasons Hotel Beirut. “We are delighted to be the first to introduce the original torte in the Middle East region and to our distinguished guests.”

The Sacher-Torte legend dates back to 1832, when a 16-year-old apprentice, Franz Sacher, created the recipe. Since then, it has been a well-kept secret, although it is much copied around the world. More than 360,000 Sacher-Tortes are produced every year, and for more than 175 years, they have been spread by hand with apricot jam, iced and wrapped in exactly the same way.

The cake comprises two layers of dense, not overly sweet chocolate cake (traditionally sponge cake) with a thin layer of apricot jam in between and dark chocolate icing on the top and sides. It’s best enjoyed with unsweetened whipped cream and a cup of fresh-roasted coffee or tea. The Sacher-Torte also pairs beautifully with champagne.

“This cake is famed yet simple. It is made of the best ingredients but does not shout about its quality. Four Seasons and Sacher-Torte have common traits – you need to experience them to understand the value of what they offer,” added Simkovics.

The Boulevard is Beirut’s newest see-and-be-seen destination for both Hotel guests and locals. Overlooking the Mediterranean and Beirut’s Corniche, the restaurant’s interior design by Pierre-Yves Rochon and comfortable furniture tempts visitors to linger and enjoy the local scene. The Boulevard offers a rich menu throughout the day, from Continental breakfast in the morning to Viennese-style open sandwiches for lunch to a wide selection of pastries for afternoon, accompanied by a range of teas and coffees.