What Food To Try in Beirut and Food Prices

Foul Medames - Foul (breakfast staple) - Stewed fava beans topped with olive oil, lemon, and garlic, often served with warm pita on the side. Locals enjoy it for breakfast at small diners, usually with a side of pickled vegetables.

Manakish - Mana'eesh (savory pastry) - Flatbread topped with za'atar, olive oil, or cheese, cooked until crispy. You can find it at street vendors, perfect for a casual lunch on the go; just try not to mistake it for a pizza!

Kibbeh Nayeh - Kibbeh (raw meat dish) - A mixture of finely ground raw lamb mixed with bulgur, spices, and served with fresh mint. This dish is commonly shared during lunch among family as a sign of hospitality and can be a real shocker for newcomers.

Molokhia - Molokhiya (herb stew) - A thick stew made from jute leaves, usually cooked with chicken or lamb and served over rice. This hearty dish is a beloved comfort food, especially enjoyed during family dinners, showcasing local cooking traditions.

Kafta - Kafta (grilled meat skewers) - Spiced ground meat (often beef or lamb) molded onto skewers, grilled until juicy and served with grilled vegetables. You might spot locals savoring kafta at outdoor barbecues, often paired with fresh bread—a deliciously messy experience!

Samboosa - Sambuṣa (savory pastry) - Fried turnovers filled with spiced meat or vegetables, often served as a street food option. These are usually gobbled up during Ramadan, making them a seasonal favorite.

Tabbouleh - Tabbouleh (herb salad) - A refreshing salad made predominantly from parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur, seasoned with lemon and olive oil. Often enjoyed as a side during lunch or dinner, it’s surprisingly filling and can be mistaken for a light dish; don’t let it fool you!

By the way, lunch in Beirut is often a family affair, so expect communal dining where everyone shares dishes from the center of the table.

Jallab - جلاب (date fruit drink) - A sweet, dark beverage made from dates, carob extract, and rose water, served chilled with pine nuts and sometimes raisins. It's especially popular during the holy month of Ramadan and at iftar gatherings, where families break their fast together.

Arabic Coffee - قهوة عربية (strong coffee) - A robust brew made from lightly roasted Arabic coffee beans, flavored with cardamom and often served in small Arabic cups. It's a common part of social gatherings; locals frequently offer it to guests as a symbol of hospitality, usually accompanied by dates.

Arak - عرق (anise-flavored spirit) - A clear alcoholic beverage distilled from fermented grapes and flavored with anise, often enjoyed with water added for a milky appearance. It's a festive drink served during celebrations, typically shared among friends over long dinners.

Knafeh - كنافة (cheese pastry dessert) - A delightful pastry made with thin noodle-like dough soaked in syrup and layered with gooey cheese, served warm. You’ll often find it at gatherings or special occasions; for a unique spin, try it with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top.

Muhallebi - مهلبية (milk pudding) - A creamy milk pudding often flavored with rose or orange blossom water, and garnished with nuts or coconut. It’s a popular summer treat, especially at family celebrations, celebrated for its lightness, making it a perfect way to end a meal.

By the way, if you're out late, treat yourself to any of these after a night out; they're just as good at 2 AM!