Middle Eastern tables are built around sharing — dips, flatbread, grilled meat and salads arriving together rather than in courses.
In Beirut the Middle Eastern list is led by Baron in Gemmayze (Acclaimed local fine dining, LBP 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 / USD 100-170 per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Babel at LBP 1,200,000 - 2,000,000 / USD 80-130 is the value pick.
- 1.
Baron
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Middle Eastern · Gemmayze · LBP 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 / USD 100-170
Baron presents a sophisticated take on contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and artful presentation. The ambiance is chic yet inviting, with an industrial-inspired design softened by warm lighting. It's a key player in Beirut's modern culinary identity, showcasing innovative flavors.
Order: Grilled Octopus with labneh, Roasted Cauliflower with tahini
- 2.
Em Sherif Restaurant
Acclaimed local fine diningUpscale Lebanese · Achrafieh · LBP 1,800,000 - 3,000,000 / USD 120-200
Mireille Hayek
Em Sherif offers an opulent, traditional Lebanese dining experience where a multi-course mezze spread is served family-style. The decor is lavish, evoking a bygone era of Levantine grandeur. It's renowned for its uncompromising quality, extensive menu, and exceptional service, a true institution for classic Lebanese hospitality.
Order: Comprehensive mezze selection, Knefeh
- 3.
Babel
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Lebanese Seafood · Dbayeh (Coastal, North Beirut) · LBP 1,200,000 - 2,000,000 / USD 80-130
Babel masterfully blends traditional Lebanese flavors with a focus on fresh seafood, presented in a strikingly contemporary architectural setting. The opulent, sprawling space with dramatic designs provides an immersive dining experience. It's acclaimed for its innovative approach to Lebanese staples and vibrant, fresh catch.
Order: Assorted seafood platters, innovative mezze
- 4.
Liza Beirut
Acclaimed local fine diningUpscale Lebanese · Achrafieh · LBP 1,500,000 - 2,200,000 / USD 100-150
Liza Beirut, housed in a magnificent Ottoman-era palace, offers sophisticated Lebanese cuisine in an exceptionally stylish setting. The vibrant, art-filled interiors perfectly complement the refined traditional dishes. It’s a sensory experience, blending historical grandeur with contemporary flair and culinary excellence, making it distinctly memorable.
Order: Moutabbal, Fattet Lahme
Booking a Middle Eastern table in Beirut
- · Book at least 3-7 days in advance for popular fine dining establishments, especially for weekend evenings, to secure your preferred time and table. Some high-demand restaurants might require a week or more notice.
- · Many upscale restaurants do not require a deposit but may ask for credit card details to hold the reservation, particularly for larger groups or during peak seasons. Always confirm cancellation policies to avoid no-show charges.
- · Consider experiencing the fine dining scene during lunch. Many top restaurants offer more accessible lunch menus or 'business lunch' specials, providing an excellent value opportunity to sample their cuisine at a lower price point.
- · Be punctual for your reservation, as no-show policies can be strict. If running late, notify the restaurant immediately. Late arrivals exceeding 15-20 minutes without communication may result in your table being given away.
And the local dishes in Beirut
Kibbeh Nayyeh
A traditional Lebanese dish consisting of finely minced raw lamb or beef, mixed with bulgur, onion, and spices like mint and basil. It is typically served with olive oil, fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread. Enjoy this delicate, savory preparation at authentic Lebanese restaurants such as Le Chef or Mounir, where freshness is paramount for safety and taste.
Manakish
A popular Lebanese flatbread, often consumed for breakfast or as a snack. It can be topped with za'atar (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil), cheese, or minced meat. Baked in a communal oven, its crisp edges and soft center make it a comforting treat. Find excellent versions at local bakeries and specialty shops like Fern Ghattas.
Shawarma
A quintessential Middle Eastern street food, featuring thin slices of marinated meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) stacked on a vertical spit, slowly roasted, and then shaved off. Served wrapped in pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and sometimes fries, it's a flavorful and satisfying meal. Barbar is renowned for its delicious and consistent shawarma in Beirut.
Fattoush
A vibrant Lebanese bread salad characterized by mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and toasted or fried pita bread pieces. It's dressed with a zesty sumac-lemon vinaigrette, offering a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to richer dishes. Tawlet offers an excellent, fresh version, showcasing local seasonal ingredients.
Seven days in Beirut
Pair these Middle Eastern tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Beirut travel guide