Beirut is an amalgamation of charms from all its eras.
Beirut is a city that is one of the enigmas of the modern world. It pulsates with an energy as vibrant as its storied history. Often dubbed the “Paris of the Middle East,” this metropolis is a kaleidoscope of contrasts, where ancient relics stand alongside sleek skyscrapers.
This week, KHAMSA ventures to Beirut with the help of a detailed travel guide by Farah Dagher (@farahdagher on Instagram). Farah is the co-founder of Origin Circle, a fitness-recovery-dining-social-rooftop centre that allows people to connect with themselves and others. Her passion for Beirut is rooted in years of being charmed by the city and its many traits.
Beirut defies easy categorization. It’s a city of contradictions and complexities, where chaos and beauty coexist in perfect harmony. Its allure is both tangible and otherworldly, enveloping tourists and locals alike in a bubble of warmth, comfort, and excitement. Every corner holds a story, and every moment is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Top must-visit food spots in Beirut?
Traditional Lebanese.
Hole-in-the-wall seafood. They have great wines too.
International-Mediterranean fusion.
Terrible Prince
For Lebanese and traditional sweets, and artisanal ice cream.
– Farah Dagher
Best Cafés and Coffee Shops?
Great breakfast/brunch.
Great breakfast and brunch again.
Barsakh
Very cool bookstore as well!
Al Falamanki Sodeco
Shisha + traditional Lebanese food. Great for breakfast and open late night.
Best Bars?
“For casual and cool, go to Fizz, Union Marks, Kissproof, or Cyrano. For a little more upscale or older crowd, check out Villa Clara Comptoir or House of Butlers.”
Best places for Sundowners?
“Albergo Rooftop Terrace and Swim Club.”
Best places for shopping?
For Clothes
Nouvelle Vague
Vintage clothing.
Homeware and furniture
Also hosts pottery and flower-making workshops.
Go to Feryal if you are looking for local food staples. Visit Planbey if you plan on bringing back some local souvenirs.
Must-visit cultural spots?
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
Image courtesy Farah Dagher
Albergo Hotel is a gem in the city that puts forth the best of Lebanese heritage and glamour. Arthaus was the private home of art collectors, that is now a boutique hotel that showcases an amazing collection. If you’re into a more laid-back and communal vibe, Beit El Lafe Guesthouse is for you. They also host so many amazing workshops.
– Farah Dagher
Underrated places?
Metro Madina for live performances.
– Farah Dagher
Other Places?
“Gemmeyzeh (Pasteur and Gouroud Street), Tabaris (walk down Salim Bustros and Chehade Street), Saifi Village, and Badaro are some of the best places to walk in.
“For a beach day, go to Sporting Beach Club, bring your own towel, and stay for the sunset. If you are looking for fitness/wellness spaces, look for Origin Circle (@origincircle on Instagram) that is opening soon. Set in a three-story Lebanese heritage building, the space was converted into a social wellness club (think the SoHo house of fitness and recovery), with a garden and rooftop. You can do anything from infrared heated and non-heated workouts, use their recovery facilities (ice baths, infrared sauna, compression therapy, etc), or grab a bite at their resto/café. You can also visit the wellness room at Albergo Hotel for massages in the most beautiful setting.”
Must-pack items?
“Beirut can be casual or fancy depending on your plans, but everyone is so well put together and stylish, so
– Farah Dagher
pack accordingly!”
What should you avoid?
“Buying international brands; you have so many incredibly talented local designers to choose from!”
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
“Cash! Although places do accept credit cards (Apple Pay is non-existent), it’s a cash city. Make sure
you know the exchange rate so you don’t get ripped off. Also, Uber is available, but local/reliable taxi companies are a lot better.”
