As you're walking from Basta district to Beshara El Khoury, you'll notice to your right, just before Chmaitelly Chicken a huge art mural inspired by a famous Lebanese play called "Bennese La Bukra Shou?" by the one and only Ziad Al Rahbani, a Lebanese composer, pianist, playwright, and political commentator. Oh, and son of the Lebanon's beloved singer, Fairouz!
This mural was painted in 2019 by "ASHEKMAN, an Arabic street art group that started in 2001 in Beirut Lebanon by identical twin brothers Omar and Mohamed Kabbani." as shown on their website.
This mural simply reflects how whenever we think of Ziad Al Rahbani, we think of how his plays and scripts still reflect our current situation in Lebanon, although the play "Bennese La Bukra Shou?" was released in 1978! That's why ASHEKMAN did not only paint the face of Ziad Al Rahbani and the title of the play, but also a line taken from this play which translates to "Yesterday we ate, thought we were full, we spent all we had, so we got up early, we should eat again".
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Very charming in a very simple manner - nothing too extravagant, yet very cozy. I love that Grand Meshmosh is never too loud or too crowded, but just perfect.
by
One of my favorite places in Hamra is Raseef Beirut, originally a small sidewalk restaurant and pub – hence the name: “Raseef”, which translates to “sidewalk".
by
Known for its system, unique decor, and budget-friendly menu, Em Nazih is where you'd go on a lazy Sunday when you want to stuff your face with some good Lebanese food or on a casual coffee or drinks outing.
by
The menu includes some local bites, but Molo is best known for its pizzas, served on a wooden plank. The menu is also rich with different types of hot tea, coffee, and signature cocktails.
by
Tucked away in a small alley at the end of Mar Mikhael, the pink walls and soft music is unmissable. Orenda boasts an outdoor garden and an indoor space with a room reserved for their gift shop!
by
Some personal favorites are the hot Saj, locally produced peanut butter, jams, and other snacks such as Carob flavored cookies and of course, fresh fruits. It gets crowded, items run out fast so hurry up!
by
This is one of my personal go-to places for gifting, as every plant expresses a different type of emotion and could mean many things to different people.
by
On the inside, Beyt is all about the traditional vibes, with an Arabic-style lounge area, a balcony overlooking the street with two small tables that seat two people each, and a gift shop packed with local goods!
by
I hadn't been to an arcade since I was a teenager, and I only used to play Dance Dance Revenge, but this time, as an adult, I can safely say I had as much fun as a teenage me would have!
by
The beauty of Ramlet El Bayda lies in its sunsets. Grab a coffee, grab a friend, grab a snack, and be amazed by the colors. You can also catch the same sunset from one of the many coffee shops in Raouche or Manara!
by
My personal favorites are the mango shrimp salad and the chicken provolone, both are scrumptious. They have signature drinks, mocktails, wine, and others to also quench your thirst!
by
Once you're in, you're taken back in time through its lovely Arabic ambiance. Mezyan's main mission is to serve good food, good vibes, and prices for everyone.
by
179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 179 Insider Tips