Barbar is great for quick and tasty food on the go. With multiple branches around the city, my favourite are the Hamra ones. There are three around a cross roads and they’re open 24/7. One offers cooked food, including kebabs and grilled meats, another has juices and ice cream, and the third is a bakery selling pastries and manoushe, the typical Lebanese breakfast dish of soft doughy bread topped with cheese and/or zaatar.
Barbar has a huge choice of dishes, including sandwiches, daily dishes, grilled meats, and lots of mezze (houmous, falafel, kibbeh, samboussek), plus the Lebanese salads such as tabbouleh and fattoush. Portions are generous and service is super-fast. My favourite is the beef or chicken shawarma, which is served with a generous plate of pickles if you dine in. Barbar is worth a visit for its bustle and charm, and to watch people from all walks of Beiruti society.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Beirut guide.
It's like walking inside a snuggled Aladdin cave full of gems, and you want to get your hands on all of them.
By
"Beyt Sirena" is a coffeeshop in one of my favorite areas of the old Beirut. I love the vast floor-to-ceiling windows, and you should try their sahlab...
By
"Das Küche" is a must-visit spot in Beirut if you like real German or Polish sausages (more than 15 types!) and beer. Remember to bring cash!
By
The texture of these stuffed flatbreads is slightly crisp and flaky, with a hint of sweetness that you will seriously regret not trying...
By
Located under USJ's grounds on Damascus street, this Museum is a must-go especially if you're a huge fan of stones and geology like myself!
By
Located on a rooftop in Hamra, Pool D'etat is an affordable pool by day and a very nice place to grab a drink or dinner by the pool at night...
By
"Onomatopoeia Beirut" is a calm and cozy café that feels like home to everyone that visits, the space exists for all musicians and creatives to hang out...
By
"Flat White" in Beirut with their modbar is the first presented in any coffee shop here in Lebanon! Great if you're a coffee geek...
By
"Neighbourhood" in Beirut is a cafe that puts you among up-cycled furniture and a paster-color ambience. Come for a cup of their home-blend latte!
By
I enjoy going to "Gibran Khalil Gibran Garden" in downtown Beirut - I admire the sculptures done by Saloua Raouda Choucair and the trees & benches...
By
The "Memory Tree" is the only standing memorial to the famine that Mount Lebanon suffered from 1915 till 1918. It's covered in Arabic calligraphy...
By
178 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Beirut Blog & App!
✓ 178 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Beirut City Blog & App!