What are the signature dishes or specialties that I must try in Lebanon?

1. Hummus: A classic Middle Eastern dish, hummus is a creamy dip made of mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice.

2. Falafel: A deep-fried ball or patty made of ground chickpeas, fava beans, herbs and spices.

3. Tabbouleh: A traditional Lebanese salad made of bulgur wheat, tomato, cucumber, parsley, mint and onion.

4. Fattoush: A Lebanese salad made of chopped vegetables and fried or toasted pieces of bread called “khubez”.

5. Shawarma: Thin slices of meat that have been marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.

6. Kebbeh: A traditional Lebanese dish that consists of ground beef or lamb mixed with bulgur wheat and spices.

7. Man’ousheh: A flatbread that is usually topped with za’atar spice mix, thyme, sesame seeds and olive oil.

8. Ka’ak: A ring-shaped bread made from flour, sugar, yeast and sesame seeds.

Are there any common ingredients or spices used in Lebanon that I might not be familiar with?

Some common spices and ingredients used in Lebanese cooking are allspice, sumac, za’atar (a blend of herbs and spices), tahini, bulgur, pomegranate syrup, mint, rosewater, pine nuts, garlic, onion, and cumin.

How would you describe the typical breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Lebanon?

Breakfast: For breakfast, the typical meal in Lebanon is a combination of savory and sweet dishes. Common items include manakish (flatbread topped with za’atar, olive oil and cheese), foul mudammas (fava beans cooked with olive oil, garlic and lemon juice), labneh (strained yogurt), falafel, eggs, and pastries such as baklava and kanafeh.

Lunch: Lunch is similar to breakfast in that it usually consists of savory items like hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, and manaeesh. Common sides include cheese, olives, and pickles. For dessert, Lebanese cuisine often features baklava or kunafa.

Dinner: The most common dinner dishes in Lebanon are stews called “marasheya” and kibbeh. Marasheya is a stew made with lamb, onions, tomatoes, and spices such as cinnamon and allspice. Kibbeh is a dish made of bulgur wheat and ground meat stuffed with spices. Common sides include hummus, baba ghanoush, olives, cheese, and pickles. Desserts often include baklava or kunafa.

Are there popular street food options, and what are some recommendations for safe and delicious choices in Lebanon?

Yes, there are many popular street food options in Lebanon. Some of the most popular options include falafel, shawarma, manakeesh (flatbreads with various toppings), tabbouleh (salad made from parsley, tomatoes, and onions), and fattoush (a salad made with vegetables, herbs, and toasted pita bread). All of these street food options are safe and delicious. Additionally, some of the more unique street food options in Lebanon include sfiha (a type of meat-filled pastry), foul mudammas (stewed fava beans), kibbeh (a type of croquette filled with lamb or beef), and katayef (a sweet pancake-like dessert filled with cream or nuts).

What is the local etiquette for dining out, especially in terms of tipping and reservations in Lebanon?

Tipping:
Tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and bars in Lebanon. The standard amount is around 10-15%, but may vary depending on the type of establishment and the quality of service.

Reservations:
Making reservations is recommended at most restaurants in Lebanon, especially during peak times. Restaurants will usually require a credit card to hold the reservation, and may charge a penalty if you fail to show up or cancel at the last minute.


General Etiquette:
When dining out in Lebanon, it is customary to dress neatly and to follow the local customs of politeness and respect. People usually wait to be shown to their table and it is not uncommon for restaurants to assign seating. It is also considered polite to wait until everyone has been served before eating.

Are there specific dining customs or table manners that I should be aware of in Lebanon?

Yes, there are several dining customs and table manners that should be observed in Lebanon.

1. Wait to be seated before starting to eat.
2. Respect the traditional customs of breaking bread together. Take a small piece of bread and break it into pieces as a gesture of friendship and hospitality.
3. Wait to be invited to start eating, and make sure to accept the invitation graciously.
4. Eat slowly and try not to rush through the meal.
5. Utensils are often used while eating, but it is also acceptable to eat with your hands.
6. Avoid belching and slurping your food.
7. Do not pass over a dish without trying it first, even if you don’t think you will like it.
8. Avoid leaving food on your plate, as this is considered rude.
9. Do not reach across the table or lean over someone else’s plate for food.
10. It is polite to compliment the meal and the host or hostess when finished eating.

How spicy are the local dishes, and is there a way to request milder options if I’m not accustomed to spicy food?

The local dishes vary in spiciness depending on the restaurant, so you can always ask your server for a milder option if you’re not used to spicy food. Most restaurants offer milder versions of their dishes that contain less chili peppers and other spicy ingredients.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options readily available in Lebanon?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in Lebanon. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, such as falafel, hummus, fattoush, tabbouleh, and other dishes made with vegetables and grains. Many restaurants also offer vegan options such as salads, soups, and veggie burgers. Additionally, there are many vegetarian-friendly grocery stores which offer a variety of vegan products.

What are some local beverages or non-alcoholic drinks that I should try in Lebanon?

1. Arabic Coffee: A strong, sweet-tasting coffee served with cardamom and sugar.

2. Qamar al-Din: A drink made from apricot concentrate, rose water and sugar.

3. Salted Lemonade: A refreshing and thirst quenching drink made with lemon, salt and sugar.

4. Tamar Hindi: A sweet drink made from dates, tamarind and spices.

5. Rose Water: An aromatic drink flavored with rose water and sugar.

6. Laban: A refreshing drink made from thick yoghurt, salt and mint leaves.

7. Mint Lemonade: A refreshing and thirst quenching drink made with lemon, mint and sugar.

8. Batroun Lemonade: A traditional drink made with freshly squeezed lemons, sparkling water, sugar and mint leaves.

9. Arak: An anise-flavored spirit made from grapes or other fruits.

10. Zahlabiyeh: A Lebanese dessert of deep-fried dough balls soaked in syrup.

Is it common to drink tap water, or should I stick to bottled water in Lebanon?

It is safe to drink tap water in Lebanon, however it is recommended that you drink bottled water to be on the safe side.

Are there any traditional dining experiences, like food markets or cooking classes, that you would recommend in Lebanon?

1. Cooking class at the Tawlet Souk el Tayeb in Beirut: This interactive cooking experience is a great way to learn about Lebanese cuisine while exploring the vibrant souk el Tayeb. Guests can experience traditional Lebanese cooking techniques, taught by experienced chefs, and sample the dishes as they are prepared.

2. Local food markets in Beirut: From the bustling souks of Mar Mikhael and Gemmayzeh to the farmers’ markets of Hamra and Achrafieh, Beirut offers a variety of local food markets where visitors can explore traditional Lebanese cuisine.

3. Food tours in Beirut: Taking a guided food tour through the streets of Beirut is an ideal way to discover Lebanon’s diverse culinary scene. Visitors have the opportunity to sample traditional dishes from local restaurants and cafes, learn about Lebanese culture, and explore the city’s unique culinary offerings.

4. Cooking classes at Le Chef School in Broumana: Located in the beautiful town of Broumana, Le Chef School offers comprehensive cooking classes focusing on traditional Lebanese cuisine. Guests can learn about different Lebanese recipes, practice their cooking skills, and sample the dishes they prepare.

What are the dining hours and typical meal times in Lebanon?

Dining hours in Lebanon vary depending on the type of establishment. Most restaurants open at noon and close at 11 pm. However, some eateries may open as early as 10 am and stay open until midnight. Typical meal times in Lebanon are as follows: breakfast is usually served from 7-10 am, lunch is served from 12-3 pm and dinner is served from 7-11 pm.

How can I navigate food allergies or dietary restrictions when dining out in Lebanon?

If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, it is important to let your server know before ordering. Many Lebanese restaurants are able to accommodate special diets and may offer alternatives. It is also helpful to do some research about the ingredients in the dishes offered at the particular restaurant before planning to dine there. If you are unsure if a dish contains any of your allergens, ask the server for more information.

Are there any specific dishes that are considered a delicacy or are reserved for special occasions in Lebanon?

Yes, there are several dishes that are considered a delicacy, or that are reserved for special occasions in Lebanon. These include:

• Kibbeh Nayyeh (raw ground beef and cracked wheat mixed with herbs and spices)
• Mujaddara (Lebanese rice and lentil dish)
• Fattoush (salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppermint, fried pita bread)
• Manousheh (flatbread topped with za’atar, olive oil, and herbs)
• Shish Taouk (grilled chicken shish kebab served with garlic sauce)
• Hummus (dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic and lemon juice)
• Knefeh (sweet cheese pastry topped with syrup or honey)
• Warak Enab (stuffed grape leaves with meat and rice).

What is the local perspective on haggling or negotiating prices in food markets or street stalls in Lebanon?

Haggling and negotiating prices in food markets and street stalls is a common practice in Lebanon. Locals usually haggle over the price of all types of products, from fresh produce to household goods. It is seen as a way to get the best value for money, and haggling can often result in significant discounts. The best way to do this is to be polite but firm, and to remain positive throughout the process.

Are there regional variations in cuisine within Lebanon, and if so, what are some notable differences?

Yes, there are regional variations in cuisine within Lebanon. Many of these are based on geography and climate, with coastal areas typically having access to more seafood and the mountainous regions having access to more fresh produce.

Some notable differences include:

• The north of Lebanon is known for its olive oil–based dishes, such as tahini, tabbouleh, kibbeh, and falafel.

• The Bekaa Valley is famous for its hummus, fattoush, and labneh (yogurt cheese).

• The southern region of Lebanon is home to many Lebanese-style desserts, such as ma’amoul (date-filled cookies), baklava, and knefeh (a cheese and syrup dessert).

• The coastal region is known for its seafood dishes such as fish kabab, mussels with rice, and calamari.

How can I avoid common foodborne illnesses and ensure that the food I’m consuming is safe in Lebanon?

1. Wash your hands: Always wash your hands before and after preparing food, and before eating.

2. Cook foods thoroughly: Make sure that all your food is cooked to the recommended temperatures.

3. Avoid cross-contamination: Separate raw meats from other foods and use clean cutting boards and plates for each type of food.

4. Refrigerate leftovers: Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods within two hours of cooking.

5. Stay up to date on food safety regulations: Check with local health authorities to make sure that all restaurants, markets, and other food establishments are following proper food safety regulations.

6. Check the expiration dates: Check expiration dates on all food items, including packaged goods, to make sure they haven’t expired.

Are there any unique dining customs or traditions related to holidays or festivals in Lebanon?

Yes, in Lebanon, there are many unique dining customs and traditions related to holidays and festivals. For example, during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, families usually begin their feasts with a traditional dish of rice and meat that is known as ‘machboos’. Other traditional dishes commonly served during Eid al-Fitr include stuffed grape leaves, hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, kibbe, and various salads. On the Christian holiday of Easter, it is traditional to eat a dish of rice pudding known as ‘Meghli’ which is typically decorated with almonds, raisins, and cinnamon. During the Muslim holiday of Eid Al-Adha, it is customary to eat a dish of roast lamb as well as a variety of traditional dishes such as hummus, foul medames (a dish of mashed fava beans), tabbouleh, and baklava.

Where can I find the best local desserts or sweets in Lebanon?

For the best local desserts and sweets in Lebanon, you should visit the famous Al Soussou Patisserie located in Beirut. Their selection of pastries, cakes, and baklava is simply divine! For traditional Lebanese desserts, try visiting Noufara Sweets in Tripoli or Habiby Sweets in Hamra. Both offer mouthwatering desserts such as mouhallabieh, zalabieh, and maamool.

Are there any local dining establishments that are known for their historical or cultural significance in Lebanon?

1. The Soup Kitchen – Located in the heart of Beirut’s old city, The Soup Kitchen is a traditional Lebanese restaurant that has been around since the 19th century. It is known for its delicious and healthy vegetarian soup as well as its traditional home-style cooking.

2. Raouche Arjaan – Located at the iconic Raouche Rock, Raouche Arjaan is a renowned seafood restaurant that has been serving locals since 1945. The restaurant overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and has views of the Raouche Rock and Pigeon Rocks, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

3. La Tabkha – La Tabkha is a family-run restaurant located in the historic district of Byblos. It specializes in traditional Lebanese cuisine, featuring popular dishes such as kibbeh, tabbouleh, and fatayer. La Tabkha also serves international dishes such as pizza and burgers.

4. Liza – Located in Beirut’s Gemmayzeh district, Liza is an award-winning restaurant that has been serving locals since 1922. It is considered one of the best restaurants in Beirut, known for its delicious Lebanese dishes and innovative takes on traditional recipes.

5. Al Sultan Brahim – The oldest restaurant in Lebanon, Al Sultan Brahim has been serving customers since 1620 AD! This restaurant is located in Beirut’s old Souk district and is known for its authentic Lebanese cuisine. Its most famous dish is Kebbeh Nayeh, a raw minced lamb dish made with spices and sesame oil.