I used to live on Gemmayze street for some time. The name comes from a tree carrying the same name which actually decorates the street.
It is a charming neighborhood: it connects downtown with the famous Mar Mikhael known for bars, restaurants, coffee shops but also art galleries and local designers' showrooms. If you continue further you will reach the legendary Armenian quarter called Bourj Hammoud.
I recommend walking Gemmayze street and starting from the side of downtown -- you can enjoy your breakfast at the Frenchy Paul. The street is usually very busy, with cars stuck in traffic jam, honking and moving slowly. The buildings are kind of a mix, some old traditional Lebanese, some newer and modern. The electricity cables spread above the people rushing in both directions on the narrow sidewalks are part of the decoration.
You might hear the siren of a passing ambulance, as there is a Red Cross in one of the old villas. There is also plenty of coffee shops and small restaurants and bars. My favorites are Sip or The Coffee Room, which is actually on the St. Nicolas' stairs, which lead you from Gemmayze to the posh residential Sursock Area, with many old-style Lebanese villas and the Sursock Museum. At the end of Gemmayze, you should definitely visit souvenir shop L'Artisan du Liban, where you can get various traditional products and support the local artisans. If you still have the energy, continue further all the way to Bourj Hammoud.
Gemmayze
LBP
free
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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Go to "Jaï" for awesome Thai, Chinese and Indian food in Beirut! Stick around for their fluffy donuts topped w/ spiced almonds and a coconut/lemon dip...
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Cantina Sociale is a wine and coffee shop concept located in Beirut. If you’re a fan of wine and chill, modern spaces then you need to hit it up...
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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".
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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!
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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!
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179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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