Welcome to the capital of Lebanon, beautiful Beirut!
If you’re looking for a great dining or coffee experience, look no further than these 11 best restaurants, lunch spots, and coffee shops in Beirut.
Of course, Beirut in Lebanon is a huge city, so these places aren’t even close to all that Beirut has to offer, but during my trip, I enjoyed these places the most.
Beirut Restaurants
Beirut is such an incredibly diverse city. I never knew that before I went there. This includes the vast variety of restaurants
Abdel Wahab
In my experience, this is undoubtedly the place to eat the best classic Lebanese food you will ever taste!
Not only does their menu offer delicious food, but the neighborhood itself is incredibly picturesque.
As you walk through the streets, it feels like you’re walking in Spain or Italy.
The rooftop terrace offers a fantastic view which makes it a unique dining experience.
What’s also great about this place, is that this hidden gem remains rather unknown, meaning you won’t have to worry about making reservations or waiting in long lines.
Plus, being close to other excellent restaurants adds even more variety to your walk in this neighborhood.
Like many places in Beirut, prices can be higher than you might expact.
For a dinner at Abdel Wahab of two persons including drinks prices will be around 50 or 60 dollars.
Great Lebanese dishes are:
- Fatoush salad
- Falafel
- Muhammara
- Tabbouleh
- Kibbeh
- Hummus
- If you can’t choose, go for the mixed grill!
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Dinner for 2: 65 dollars
- Google Maps Location
Kelly’s Fish Lounge
Another cute and cozy restaurant.
Kelly’s Fish Lounge is specialized in well, fish! (crazy right).
Considering Beirut is a city along the coast it is no surprise that there are some great fish restaurants.
This one in particular is super cute and picturesque.
Location and info
Bavaglino Beirut
How cute is this street? Is this the Middle East?! crazy!
If someone would show me this picture I would guess it’s in Italy, but this is in the city center of Beirut, Lebanon.
This cute Italian restaurant offers some mazing pizza and the staff is extremely friendly and welcoming (as can be seen in the photo above!)
If you’re looking for something other than Lebanese or traditional Middle Eastern food, then this Italian restaurant is a great option. More different restaurants are also close by.
Location and info
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Google Maps Location
Al Falamanki Raouche
Falamanki is a famous restaurant brand in Beirut.
If you are looking for a restaurant with an amazing view and great Lebanese food, then this is a great option.
Allthough for the best Lebanese food I would still go for Abdel Wahab but you’ll won’t have the view on the famous Pigeon rocks.
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Google Maps Location
Bay Rock Cafe
If you are looking for a place for some coffee or food and Starbucks is too crowded then just two minutes walking below you’ll find Bay Rock Cafe.
Like at Starbucks, there is a breathtaking epic view.
Not only does it provide a serene ambience to enjoy your drink, but it also serves as the perfect place for catching up with friends.
While the food at Bay Rock Cafe is certainly enjoyable, if you’re looking for some amazing Lebanese cuisine, I would recommend number three on this list, Abdel Wahab.
Location and info
Le Flocon Artisan Glacier
Time for dessert!
A local friend of mine from Beirut told me that this is place serves the best ice cream in Beirut. Don’t they all say that? Well, this ice cream shop has been founded by the famous chef and celebrity Charles Azar.
Experience the delightful fusion of French and Lebanese craftsmanship in our artisan ice cream, crafted with passion and expertise.
Location and info
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Google Maps Location
What makes Beirut restaurants so special?
Beirut is a city that embraces art in all forms and shapes, coffee, and the beauty of life.
The coffee shops in Beirut and restaurants are unparalleled, and there is a huge amount of cozy cafes filled with friendly staff serving the perfect cup of joe.
As you walk down the streets, you’ll see the stunning art on the walls.
The combination of these culturaly rich streets, neighborhoods and amazing Lebanese food and coffee is what makes this place so special.
So grab your cup of coffee and take a walk through this enchanting city, and discover the 11 Best Restaurants, Lunch & Coffee Places in Beirut Lebanon.
Best Lunch spot in Beirut: Sporting Beach Club
Now this is more than just a pool area.
If you’re yearning for a one-of-a-kind place to enjoy a nice lunch or refreshing drinks during the day, look no further than this piece of paradise.
The swimming pool is crystal clear, making it the ideal spot to take a dip and cool off from the sun.
The pool is filled with filtered sea water. Because of this, they don’t use chlorine to keep the water clean. This is so much more sustainable and healthy.
This is why the water is salt which is also health for your skin.
Even when you’re pregnant swimming in salty water is more safe and healthy compared to pool water with chlorine.
The entrance is right behind this old ferris wheel.
And let’s not forget about the breathtaking view over the ocean.
Although there is an entrance fee of 30 dollars, it’s absolutely worth every penny to experience this tropical haven. But the best part? The drinks and food here are surprisingly affordable, so you won’t have to fret about breaking the bank even more.
Treat yourself to a refreshing salad or a burger, while embracing the ocean view surrounding you.
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Entrance fee 30 dollars
- Renting 2 towels 10 dollar
- Google Maps Location
Coffee Shops in Beirut
Let’s get some coffee!
Kalei Coffee
Let’s start the day with coffee!
Looking for an amazing coffee shop? Beirut has them!
I am thrilled to share with you my number one place in Beirut for coffee and lunch – Kalei Coffee! This hidden gem is truly authentic, offering a unique experience that sets it apart from the rest.
Nestled in the trees, right in the city (!) you can enjoy your meal or drink in the most picturesque setting, surrounded by the lush greenery of trees.
It’s a peaceful oasis in the busy city, providing a much-needed escape from a hectic day. And let me tell you about their ginger infused ice coffee – it’s a game-changer!
The refreshing combination of ginger and coffee is like nothing I’ve ever tasted before.
It is said that Kalei coffee is among the best Coffee roasters in Beirut. They even provide certified coffee roast trainings.
The attention to detail and quality of ingredients at Kalei Coffee is truly impressive. Whether you’re looking for a spot to unwind and relax or meet up with friends, this is the place to be.
Trust me, you won’t be disappointed in this little haven tucked away in the heart of Beirut.
Even a simple fruit salad is superb! The menu is full of healthy dishes, toast and salads. I went for the egg-burger last time.
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Lunch for two persons: +- 25 dollars
- kaleicoffee.com
The area of Mar Mikhaël: Caffeine Beirut
Only 500 meters from Kalei Coffee, you will stumble upon the extraordinary coffee shop, Caffeine Beirut. Brace yourself for an exceptional coffee experience that will awaken your senses (thats the ‘Caffeine’!).
The aroma that fills the air as you step inside will instantly transport you to coffee paradise, how poetic! But this coffee is seriously good.
The area of Mar Mikhaël is another area, similar like Achrafieh, with an incredible amount of culture, street art, bars and coffeeshops. Everywhere you look there is just so much to see.
Even after the catastrophic event, which took place on the edge of the area of Mar Mikhaël, the Lebanese neighborhood is vibrant and full of life!
Some streets reminded me of the colorful houses in Balat in Istanbul.
With many other dining options in the neighborhood, you can easily find a great meal before or after enjoying your favorite coffee.
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Google Maps Location
Coffee shop in Achrafieh: The Slow Beirut
Among coffee shops in Beirut, a more fancy and arty place to have lunch and coffee is The Slow Beirut.
It is located in Achrafieh (pronounced as ashrafieh).
Its an old vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Beirut.
During my time I was staying in hotel Park Suites in this area and there was just so much to see! I absolutely love Achrafieh.
Location and info
- Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly
- Google Maps Location
Starbucks
What a minute Jack, you’re putting Starbucks on your list?! Now hold on…
This is not your average Starbucks! This might be a Starbucks with the best view of all Starbucks stores in the world.
It is built right on the cliff of the boulevard of Beirut. You’ll have a view right on the famous pigeon rocks and when you look down…well, just don’t look down(!)
While Starbucks isn’t the most local and authentic places for coffee in Beirut, or anywhere, this Starbucks is different.
You can sit inside, where it can become a bit crowded or sit outside on the terrace with the same spectacular view.
Location and info
How to pay in Beirut?
Beirut is in a difficult economic situation, but the people and the town are incredibly versatile!
Because of the situation in most places a credit card will not work. The best way to pay at coffee shops in Beirut or anywhere is with cash.
American Dollars are widely accepted. I’ve never had it not being accepted in Beirut.
You can use American dollars at bars and restaurants, taxis, hotels, and even the smallest shops.
The local currency, the Lebanese pound, is of course also accepted everywhere.
How to get around in Beirut?
The best way, in my opinion, to get to the restaurants and coffee places is by Uber. You won’t need a credit card, just cash.
You can pay at the end of your ride.
A typical ride in the city will be about 5 or 6 dollars.
Obviously that is not a taxi in the photo! 😉
Final thoughts on dining in Beirut
Beirut is such an incredibly diverse and culturally rich city. Some Beirut restaurants have amazing views, some are located in neighborhoods full of art, and some are in a southern European-style area.
Some say that Beirut is not safe, but that is not true for the city center. The city center is safe, and even at night, you can walk around freely. I’ve seen many solo male and female travelers there as well. So going to a restaurant or coffee shop in the evening in the city is perfectly fine.
Outside of Beirut and especially in the south it is less safe. So I would not advise to go there. But, I have to say that all the great things to see and do in Beirut and places to eat are mostly in the city.
For the latest info in-depth information can be found here : https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/lebanon
F.A.Q.
Where can I find the best Lebanese food in Beirut?
You can find the best Lebanese food in Beirut at restaurants like Abdel Wahab and Em Sherif.
These places are known for their authentic flavors and quality ingredients
What are the must-try dishes in Beirut?
Some of the must-try dishes in Beirut include hummus, shish tawook, kibbeh, grape leaves, labneh, and baba ghanouj.
Can I get takeout from these restaurants?
Yes, most of these restaurants offer takeout options! Just give them a call, staff at most restaurants can speak English very well.
Do these restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, most of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Many traditional Lebanese dishes are made of vegetables, chickpeas or other non-meat products.
