STAY

Hotel Lost – Stylish boutique stay in the heart of Gemmayzeh.

Arthaus Beirut – Art-filled heritage property with contemporary design.

Beit Toureef – Guesthouse blending tradition and modern comfort.

Albergo – Designed by Maria Ousseimi, an elegant, historic luxury hotel in Achrafieh. Wonderful rooftop pool, bar and restaurant.

FOOD & COFFEE

Abou Shadi – A beloved hole-in-the-wall serving fresh, hot man’oushe in the traditional Lebanese style.

Kalei Coffee Co. – Specialty coffee roasted on-site, sipped in a serene garden within a restored heritage house.

Falamanki Raouche – Lebanese breakfasts and mezze served on a leafy terrace with sweeping views of Pigeon Rocks.

Barzakh – A cosy, book-filled café with retro interiors and an unhurried pace, perfect for reading or people-watching.

Em Sherif Deli – A modern take on Lebanese classics, from mezze to mains, all elegantly plated. Try the kibbeh nayeh sandwich and cardamon ice cream!

Tawlet – A farm-to-table buffet spotlighting home cooks and small producers from across Lebanon.

Beit Kanz – Part café, part boutique, part cultural space, celebrating Lebanese craft and cuisine.

Souk el Tayeb – Beirut’s famous farmers’ market, brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food.

Meat the Fish – Fresh, vibrant seafood dishes with a healthy, modern twist.

Falafel Freiha – An institution since 1933, renowned for its crisp falafel and soft pita.

Ginnette – A stylish café-boutique in Gemmayzeh serving fresh, seasonal dishes and great coffee in a contemporary setting. Also has a boutique and art gallery.

Mario e Mario – A cosy Italian trattoria with the most gorgeous terrace in Mar Mikhael, known for fresh pasta, seasonal dishes, and a warm, family-run feel.

DINNER

Makan – A charming home-style restaurant with ever-changing set menus from Lebanese to international.

Casablanca – Organic, asian inspired plates in a breezy old villa by the sea.

Chez Sami – Legendary seafood spot just outside Beirut, famous for its daily catch.

Em Sherif – An opulent dining experience with a lavish Lebanese set menu in a grand setting.

SWIM & BEACH ESCAPES

Sporting Club – A Beirut landmark since the 1950s, with pools, sunbathing decks, and direct sea access.

Madame Bleu Beirut – A chic, intimate pool club with good food, cocktails, and stunning sunset views.

Pierre & Friends – A laid-back beach bar with rock swimming and a festive summer atmosphere.

Jammal Beach – A rustic, pieds dans l’eau, spot north of Beirut where tables sit right at the water’s edge, serving fresh seafood alongside crystal-clear swimming.

ART & CULTURE

Sursock Museum – Modern and contemporary art in a beautifully restored 1912 villa.

Beirut Art Center – A hub for contemporary exhibitions, talks, and performances.

L’Escalier de l’Art – Public stairs turned outdoor gallery, alive with murals and installations.

Sioufi Garden – A tranquil park dotted with sculptures and shaded walking paths.

Marfa’ Contemporary Art Gallery – Innovative works by Lebanese and international artists in an industrial space.

Dar el Nimer – Exhibitions celebrating Arab art, history, and cultural heritage.

Beirut Art Residency – Residency and exhibition space supporting emerging artists.

SHOPPING

Orient 499 – High-end Lebanese crafts, textiles, and homewares with exquisite detailing.

Inaash – Stunning Palestinian embroidery applied to modern fashion and accessories.

Abboudi Bou Jaoude Vintage Poster Collection – Rare, collectible Arab cinema and music posters.

Liwan – Handcrafted leather goods, sandals, and accessories rooted in tradition.

Mar Mikhael – A creative neighbourhood full of independent boutiques, galleries, and design shops.

Silly Spoon – Whimsical and colourful kitchenware and home accessories.

Beit Beirut – A restored heritage building that’s both museum and concept shop.

Beirut Souks – A modern shopping complex mixing luxury brands with local designers.

Nada Zeineh – One of my favourite contemporary jewellery designers, crafted with bold, architectural precision.

Bokja – Celebrated design studio blending vintage textiles, bold colours, and storytelling into furniture and fashion.

WALKS & SCENIC STROLLS

Corniche Beirut – A lively seaside promenade for sunrise jogs, sunset walks, and people-watching.

Historic City Centre – Ottoman-era streets, shaded squares, and historic landmarks to explore on foot.

Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael – Artsy neighbourhoods filled with colourful staircases, cafés, and street art.

AUB Campus – Lush gardens, historic buildings, one designed by Zaha Hadid, and Mediterranean views open to the public at certain times.

Ras Beirut to Manara Lighthouse – A breezy coastal walk with uninterrupted sea views.

Bourj Hammoud – Narrow alleys buzzing with spice shops, goldsmiths, and Armenian bakeries.

Achrafieh’s Staircases – Photogenic, mural-painted steps like L’Escalier de Saint Nicolas.

WELLNESS & RELAXATION

Yoga Souk – An inclusive yoga community offering classes for all levels.

Union Square Yoga – A modern studio for flow classes and workshops.

Kalm Pilates Studio – A boutique pilates space with small, personalised sessions.

NIGHTLIFE & HANGOUTS

Fizz – A chic cocktail spot for starting the night.

Albergo Swim Club – Rooftop bar and pool with city views.

Union Marks – A lively bar with a cool, laid-back crowd.

Superchief & Limbo – A buzzy new restaurant with a hidden speakeasy tucked underneath.

Jive – Great energy, fun drinks, and a sociable vibe.

Riwaq – Alternative, creative crowd with small concerts, poetry nights, and cultural events.

Kissproof – Stylish bar with a good mix of cocktails and people-watching.

Pacifico – A Beirut institution for margaritas and Mexican bites.

Terrible Prince – Famous for its burger, plus good wine and excellent Bloody Marys.

Futomama – Clubby vibe and one of the newer “in” places.

AHM Club – Big-name DJs and late-night Beirut party scene.