Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Beirut

Tawlet is a charming little restaurant which serves the most authentic and traditional Lebanese food. Started with the aim to support farmers and cooks, the Tawlet believes in celebrating food that is a reflection of their communities. Each day, there is a new chef at this restaurant. The local women or cooking enthusiasts from different communities come here and show their cooking skills by making traditional recipes. Thus, here at the Tawlet, the menu changes everyday. Drop by for a delicious brunch or buffet and get to taste the true flavors of Lebanese cooking.

Considered to be among the best places in town to drink, Torino Express is set in an old picture framing shop dating back to the 1930s. Adorned with several picture frames, this neon lit watering hole is a hub for writers, students, intellectuals and artists. Its eclectic crowd also makes it an interesting place to hangout. During the day, it acts as a cozy coffee-shop where you can enjoy a cuppa and read a book. During the night jazz, rock, alternative and new wave music is blared in the background.

Located in the popular neighborhood of Hamra, Dany’s is a cafe, bar and pub, known to be one of the best destinations for local party goers and tourists to have a nice time. It serves as a cafe during the day where one can sip on coffee, tea and munch on local snacks. As the sunsets the venue becomes bar and pub where one can enjoy live local DJ’s while sipping on fresh fruit seasonal cocktails. They also have a huge outdoor terrace and if you are in group it would be a fun place to be. In addition, they have a underground pub with a different setting and atmosphere, where you can listen to local bands as they perform. Patrons who love their drink can visit the pub during the happy hours from 11a to 8p. Dany's has another location in Badaro area and a seasonal location in Tyre tent Number 33.

Ferdinand, located in the city of Beirut, is one of the best bars in the neighborhood that offers both, delectable cocktails and appetizing food. It gives off the vibe of a lounge with dim lights, a fully stocked bar, plush sofas and thumping music you will want to dance to. The cool cocktails with even cooler names like Curious Thomas and The Craftsman Trick Ferdinand are well crafted by the mixologists. The cuisine offered by this place is American and it assembles one of the juiciest burgers in the city. Another huge favorite is their Animal Nachos generously topped with guacamole and sour cream. The Classic Ferdinand Burger and Smokin Guns Burger are popular favorites and absolutely delicious. With enthusiastic staff and great service, this place has its own set of loyalists. Have a good time sipping on their heady cocktails and digging in those greasy burgers!

Mayrig, meaning mother or grandmother, will take you to the old world charm of Armenian houses and recipes made by mothers with great love. Nestled near Gouraud street, this place has a fairytalesque feel to it. The arched, white stoned walls and corners decorated with antique vases, candelabras and clocks give an endearing, domestic vibe. Cushioned sofas and chairs decked with colorful pillows make for a comfortable, cozy seating. You can also choose to sit in the patio area, amidst green plants and veils. Dine under the open skies or under traditional, colorful lanterns. The menu comprises of authentic Armenian delicacies with Lebanese and Mediterranean flavors combined. Mante or minced meat dumplings and Havgitov Basterma which is smoked beef canape, are some of their delicious specialties. The place is a must visit if you want to experience the age old Armenian culture through delectable food and pleasant ambiance.

In one of the oldest districts of Ashrafieh in Beirut, Leil Nhar is a landmark of modern culinary experience. Walls and columns painted with food motifs, cozy lounge chairs and bright red accents contrasting the dark grey, give out a hip, young vibe. A great place to chill and enjoy a delicious meal with friends, you can try many options from their menu. Variety of eggs, Lebanese platters to sandwiches, you can relish contemporary delights infused with traditional Lebanese flavors. Their dessert menu, ranging from Marshmallow Cake to Caramel Esmaliyye, is certainly not to be missed. Don't worry about untimely cravings as this restaurant is ready to serve you 24/7