Manara Palace Cafe is the perfect breakfast spot after a walk on the Corniche. I like to take one of the tables right by the sea: you're so close to the water that you can feel the cool spray from the waves and smell the salt in the air. The cafe serves typical Lebanese breakfast fare: labne, foul (flavoursome cooked beans), manaeesh and cheeses, as well as a variety of teas, coffees and fresh juices. Everything is laid out on starched white table clothes, with proper linen napkins.
But the main reason to come here is for the unbeatable view: on one side, you can look straight out onto the Med, and on the other you have the Beirut skyline with the mountains in the background. The cafe is an ideal place to come when I want to get away from the traffic and harried pace of the city, and enjoy the fresh sea air and some decent Lebanese fare.
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.
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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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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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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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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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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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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.
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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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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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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!
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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!
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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.
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179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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