Finding this ice cream shop is a challenge, but one that’s well worth it once you arrive. Look for the street just after Saydet el Doukhoul church in Achrafieh, and you'll find a tiny, one-room shop which is otherwise unmarked.
I like Hanna Mitri because contrary to much of the shiny, new Beirut, which is all about appearances, this place is old and unchanged, and it’s all about the ice cream. There are no seats and it’s a no-frills service. The family-owned business has existed since 1949, and legend has it that it never closed, even while bombs were falling during the civil war. The shop only moved after the Beirut blast in 2020. The ice cream is still all made on the spot daily.
There are usually around eight flavours of ice cream and sorbet available, plus some specials depending on what’s in season. If you're in luck, you might find mulberry, watermelon or mango. My favourites are the rose water sorbet and amareddine (apricot paste sorbet filled with crunchy pine nuts). Hanna Mitri is renowned for its milk ice cream, and there are also plenty of classics such as strawberry, lemon, dark chocolate and pistachio. Everything is made from fresh ingredients without colourants or additives.
The ice cream is served, without a smile, in thin, rectangular old-fashioned wafer cones. As one online review reads: it’s the only place in Lebanon where you see people line up and wait to be served.
Explore Beirut like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Beirut guide.
On the rooftop of the Three O'Nine hotel you'll find the charming Fool's Bar with a small pool and comfortable seating with high tables and chairs around.
By
Artisan. Sourdough. Bread. Delivered to Beirut. I was sold! So my first order was 1 sourdough loaves mix (to taste the different flavors) and 1 focaccia...
By
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
178 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 178 Insider Tips from our local Spotters