Beirut is already known as the ultimate dining hot spot that attracts foodies from across the globe. Yet, beyond that, the true beauty of the city lies within its long and extended roots. To get a taste of old Beirut, these are the ultimate eateries that prove that old is always gold:
El Soussi Resto
Opening its doors more than 120 years ago is the Lebanese family restaurant that knows how to create an unforgettable foodie experience of live cooking and warm Lebanese hospitality.
The cozy spot serves up the ultimate authentic breakfast of hummus, fatteh, balila, foul, and the signature Lebanese lamb confit (awarma) scrambled eggs. It’s so popular that it was voted the best breakfast by CNN.
Ichkhanian Bakery
Standing tall since 1946 is the Ichkhanian Bakery, one of the oldest Armenian restaurants in Beirut. It’s quite special, as it serves both Lebanese and Armenian cuisine showcasing the unique way they interconnect. A must-have at this eatery is their Lahmajun, a unique Arab meat pie packed with intense, addictive flavors.
Rafic Marrouche Restaurants
Both locals and tourists alike flock to Rafic Marrouche to simply get a taste of its shawarma. Open since 1942, it has made a name for itself by serving up some of the best shawarma in the city within its small, fast-food-style diner.
Abou Hassan Restaurant
A Lebanese breakfast is a quintessential and iconic part of the country’s cuisine, and that’s why another one of its old and beloved diners specializes in this very meal. Sitting in the East of Beirut is the Abou Hassan Restaurant, a 40-year-old favored joint. Anyone dining there gets to experience the gastronomic dream of addictive hummus, fattah, and falafel.
Malak Al Batata
We Arabs love our food creations, and one of the biggest crowd favorites is the batata sandwich (French fries sandwich). In Beirut, nestled among Hamra Street, stands Lebanon’s Malak Al-Batata, which literally translates to ‘King of Fries.’ Its namesake best seller is, of course, the batata sandwich.
Visiting any of these diners will truly make you feel like you’re stepping back in time to the golden 30s and 40s of old Beirut.
