Onno restaurant in Badaro is a little bit off the beaten track. Even for Beirutis, Badaro hasn’t yet gained the same status as hipster neighbourhoods Mar Mikhael and Gemmayze. It’s worth coming here though – Badaro is a first-rate Armenian restaurant. It has a cosy feel inside, with pomegranate murals and Armenian tapestries adorning the walls. There’s a big terrace out front for al fresco dining.
My favourite foods to order are the mouth-watering sweet and sour cherry (vishna) kebab, and a portion of manti, which are miniature dumplings stuffed with a choice of mincemeat, chicken or a vegetarian option, and served on a bed of yogurt.
Like Lebanese food, the dishes are made for sharing, so I usually order a selection of starters such as pumpkin kibbeh, an Armenian salad (itch) and the baked aubergine. Onno also caters to more exotic tastes, with delicacies such as pan-fried lamb brains, marinated frogs’ legs, marinated beef tongue and pan-fried sparrows. Dessert is on them, and changes daily.
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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They have outdoor and indoor seating, with 3 comfy sofas that fit the steampunk theme and even the light bulbs above the bar are held up by gears.
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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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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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179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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