When you walk the busy main street of Noueiry neighborhood, and reach a crowd of people standing at a restaurant, know that you've reached the iconic Farrouj Zaghal.
The Arabic word "farrouj" translates to "chicken" in English, and serving the chicken after cooking it on gas while horizontally rolling it on a stick has been popular in Beirut since the 1940s. However, Saeed Zaghal, the owner of this takeaway restaurant has been in this business since he was 16 years old when his father decided to open such a shop in 1966 knowing that his son will be learning a new profession, and Saeed adapted and mastered it quickly!
What makes the chicken sandwiches different at Zaghal's is that they're wrapped in a "Marqouq bread" which was not popular in Beirut back in the 60s, but was brought to the capital Beirut from the villages of Lebanon. So Saeed started selling sandwiches with this bread, and he found the people of the city are enjoying it, so he adopted this concept!
This restaurant doesn't have seating, so it's perfect for takeaway or grabbing a sandwich and eating it on the sidewalk. You can always pass by it and see Saeed sitting on a chair at the door of his store every day from 05:00 A.M. till 02:00 P.M. and even start a spontaneous conversation about the history of this city and his memories of it.
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