Lebanon
Lebanese cuisine is a prominent part of Levantine cuisine, with deep historical roots drawing influences from Ottoman, Arab, and Mediterranean traditions. Its evolution has been shaped by trade routes, historical occupations, and the availability of local produce. It emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and a wide array of herbs and spices forming the core flavor profile. The cuisine is celebrated for its natural health benefits, relying heavily on vegetables, grains, and lean proteins. Lebanese dining is inherently communal, centered around sharing many small dishes, known as mezze, which encourages social interaction and a leisurely meal. This tradition of hospitality and sharing is deeply ingrained in the culture.
Staples include fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, mint, onions), legumes (chickpeas, lentils), grains (bulgur, rice), and proteins like lamb, chicken, and fresh fish. Olive oil is fundamental. Flavors are bright and aromatic, characterized by fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro. Spices like sumac, za'atar, and the seven-spice mix are common. Lemon juice and garlic add a fresh, zesty base.
These regions, including Beirut, emphasize fresh seafood. Dishes like Sayadieh (spiced fish and rice) are common.
The cooler climate of the mountains lends itself to heartier stews, grilled meats, and a greater use of dairy products like labneh (strained yogurt) and various cheeses. Traditional dishes here reflect the agricultural produce of the specific valley.
Known as Lebanon's breadbasket, this fertile valley is famous for its agricultural produce, including grains, vegetables, and grapes, making it a prominent wine-producing region. Dishes from here feature fresh, locally grown ingredients.
Hummus: creamy dip from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic. Baba Ghanoush: smoky, creamy dip from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, garlic.
Found in every Lebanese restaurant.
Tabbouleh: refreshing salad of finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, soaked bulgur, lemon juice, olive oil. Fattoush: mixed green salad with vegetables, herbs, toasted pita, sumac-lemon-olive oil dressing.
Staple Lebanese salads.
Kibbeh Nayyeh: Raw minced lamb (or beef) with fine bulgur and spices. Consume only from reputable establishments. Kibbeh: cooked versions (fried, baked, grilled) usually torpedo-shaped croquettes filled with spiced minced meat and pine nuts.
A national dish with cooked and raw variants.
Manakish: Popular Lebanese flatbread baked in a communal oven. Toppings include za'atar, cheese, or minced meat. Perfect for breakfast or a snack. Kaa'k: Ring-shaped bread, sold by street vendors, sometimes with sesame seeds. Can be plain or filled.
Arak: Anise-flavored alcoholic drink, clear, turns cloudy with water/ice, served with mezze. Jallab: Sweet, refreshing non-alcoholic drink from carob, dates, grape molasses, with crushed ice, pine nuts, raisins. Ayran/Laban: Salty yogurt drink. Turkish Coffee: Strong, unfiltered. Fresh Juices: Widely available.
For a refined culinary experience, Beirut has several world-class options:
This category balance quality with reasonable prices. Numerous options in Hamra, Gemmayze, Mar Mikhael, and Achrafieh.
The heart of daily dining for many locals and fantastic value.
Lebanese cuisine is naturally highly vegetarian-friendly. Its emphasis on vegetables, chickpeas, lentils, and grains means many mezze dishes are suitable. Hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, fattoush, falafel, mujadara, and various salads are all vegetarian, and often vegan. Veganism also gains traction in Beirut, and an increasing number of restaurants specifically cater to plant-based diets. You can easily assemble a full meal from mezze alone.
Many mezze are inherently vegetarian.
The vast majority of meat served in Lebanon is halal due to the predominantly Muslim population. Restaurants typically serve halal meat. Kosher food is generally not available in public restaurants in Lebanon, except in very specialized, often privately run, establishments that cater to specific communities.
Halal is standard, kosher is limited.
Finding strictly gluten-free options can be challenging, as many traditional dishes rely on bulgur (wheat) or are served with bread. Cross-contamination is a risk. Explain your dietary needs clearly.
For other allergens (e.g., nuts, dairy), communicate clearly with staff. Nuts are common in desserts; dairy in yogurt, labneh, cheeses.
Use a translation app like Google Translate or a phrasebook. Learn phrases like "ana nabati" (I am vegetarian), "bidun laham" (without meat), "ana alergic ala..." (I am allergic to...).
Apps like HappyCow can locate vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Beirut.
Many hotels and independent venues in Beirut feature stunning rooftop bars and restaurants, with panoramic city views, especially at sunset. A sophisticated dining or drinking experience with a memorable backdrop.
Scenic views with dining.
While a mid-range restaurant, its ambiance and focus on traditional Lebanese settings, often with shisha, make it an unique social dining experience popular with locals for large gatherings and lively evenings.
Lively and traditional social dining.
This weekly farmers' market (typically Saturdays, check their website or social media for current locations and times). It has fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a wide array of ready-to-eat traditional Lebanese foods prepared by local farmers and cooks. A wonderful place for a casual, authentic meal and to support local producers.
Beirut has a diverse and sophisticated international dining scene, reflecting its cosmopolitan nature. You can find excellent Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and various American fast food options.
Lebanese cuisine is naturally highly vegetarian-friendly. Its emphasis on vegetables, chickpeas, lentils, and grains means many mezze dishes are suitable. Hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, fattoush, falafel, mujadara, and various salads are all vegetarian, and often vegan. Veganism also gains traction in Beirut, and an increasing number of restaurants specifically cater to plant-based diets. You can easily assemble a full meal from mezze alone.
The vast majority of meat served in Lebanon is halal due to the predominantly Muslim population. Restaurants typically serve halal meat.
Kosher food is generally not available in public restaurants in Lebanon, except in very specialized, often privately run, establishments that cater to specific communities. For other allergens (e.g., nuts, dairy), communicate clearly with staff. Nuts are common in many Lebanese desserts and sometimes in savory dishes. Dairy is present in yogurt, labneh, and some cheeses.
Clear communication with restaurant staff about dietary needs is paramount.
Utilize translation tools.
Restaurants catering to international visitors are usually more experienced with dietary restrictions.
Seek out reputable establishments.
Hands-on experience in preparing traditional Lebanese dishes, often at Souk el Tayeb / Tawlet.
Explore Beirut's street food scene, local markets, and culinary gems with expert guides. Book Food Tours
Seasonal food festivals, especially during summer, local produce, traditional dishes. Check local event listings.
Lebanese dining is inherently communal, centered around sharing many small dishes, known as mezze, which encourages social interaction and a leisurely meal. This tradition of hospitality and sharing is deeply ingrained in the culture.
