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.
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The "Garden of Forgiveness" in Beirut is a vast space that was properly unveiled during excavations after the Civil War. Come observe its beauty & history.
by
"Barzakh Bookshop" in Beirut is the ultimate definition of a hidden gem. It's a cultural melting pot of literary rebels from around the world...
by
"Beit Beirut", or the Yellow Building, has been standing since 1924. It survived the Civil War and is now used as a center for exhibitions & events...
by
"L'Artisan du Liban" is a social movement in Beirut that's keeping local art and artisans alive. I usually buy gifts for my locals friends here...
by
"Mar Maroun Church" in Beirut is Lebannon's biggest Maronite church. You can see the Arab influence on the architecture. Bonus points: I was married here!
by
"Institute Yakout" is not just another beauty salon: here it's like you're among friends. Yakout will make you coffee with a huge smile & chat with you...
by
"George Nakhle Coiffure" in Beirut is my hairdresser of preference. I don't know what it is, but I can always trust him to prepare me for my night out!
by
"Sarah's Bag" in Beirut is a Lebanese fashion brand that aims to empower the women who wear their beautiful bags as well as those who make them...
by
Walking in Achrafieh and meeting the locals in Beirut, especially the groups of old people, has made me feel like I'm really part of a big village...
by
"The Malt Gallery" is a must-visit if you're a fan of nice alcohol. It's a kind of drink library, proudly displaying bottles from all over the world...
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