Lebanon · tool
Beirut food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Beirut.
What to eat in Beirut
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Kibbeh Nayyeh
A raw minced lamb or beef dish, seasoned with bulgur, onions, and spices. It's a delicacy prized for its fresh, vibrant flavour and smooth texture, best enjoyed with fresh bread and mint.
Tabbouleh
A refreshing salad of finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, and bulgur. It's a staple that highlights the freshness of Lebanese produce.
Manakish
A baked flatbread, often topped with za'atar (a spice blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or minced meat. It's a versatile breakfast and snack food enjoyed any time of day.
Shawarma
Thinly sliced marinated meat (lamb, chicken, or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in pita bread with tahini, pickles, and vegetables. The complex marinade and slow cooking create an incredibly flavourful experience.
Fatteh
A layered dish typically featuring toasted pita bread, chickpeas, yogurt, garlic, and often a drizzle of tahini or olive oil. It's a comforting and flavourful dish, varying regionally but always satisfying.
Kafta
Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with onions and parsley, often grilled or baked, sometimes in a tomato sauce or with potatoes. It's a flavourful and aromatic dish deeply rooted in Lebanese cuisine.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bohemian and lively, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene.
Historic and chic, with charming streets lined with traditional and modern restaurants and bars.
Bustling and youthful, a hub for students and locals with a wide array of affordable eateries and shops.
Authentic and bustling, a historic Armenian-Lebanese district famous for its traditional food and crafts.
Dietary notes
Lebanese cuisine is rich and flavourful, with a strong emphasis on grilled meats, poultry, and fish. While many vegetarian mezze options exist (like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh), vegan and gluten-free options can require careful selection, as bulgur and dairy are common ingredients.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary; around 10-15% is standard for good service in restaurants.
- •While credit cards are accepted in many establishments, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller eateries and market purchases.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •Mezze is meant to be shared; expect a communal dining experience.
- •It's polite to accept offers of coffee or tea when visiting someone's home or a shop.