Salon Beyrouth Beirut

Salon Beyrouth is a one-of-a-kind venue in Hamra. Set in a historic, refurbished house, it's a cafe, whiskey lounge and jazz bar rolled into one. The Salon hosts live jazz nights several times a week in an elegant setting influenced by jazz-era salons. The airy outdoor seating area has a tree growing in the middle of it, whilst the interior's many rooms are sleekly decorated with polished black and white floor tiles, art deco mirrors and lamps, and a wall showcasing the vast selection of whiskeys.

The eclectic menu serves a mix of Lebanese-inspired and international dishes. My favourites are the daily home-cooked Lebanese dishes, such as kibbe sonniyeh, a mince meat pie stuffed with onions and pine nuts and served with yogurt and a side salad. I like the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the weekly ladies' night which offers half-price on all cocktails. Salon Beyrouth is great for a quiet setting to work in in the morning, as well as for relaxed weekend brunches or late-night drinks.