Verified Facts
When visiting Lebanon, be sure to try the country's unique and flavorful cuisine, which combines Mediterranean, Arabic, and Middle Eastern influences, with must-try dishes including Kibbeh, Shawarma, and Tabbouleh.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Lebanese cuisine is a rich and diverse reflection of the country's history and cultural heritage, with influences from the Mediterranean, Arabic, and Middle Eastern regions. The cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs, as well as the liberal use of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Lebanese cuisine also features a wide variety of meats, including lamb, beef, and chicken, which are often grilled or cooked in stews. Regional variations in Lebanese cuisine are evident, with the coastal regions favoring seafood and the mountainous regions specializing in meat dishes.
The country's cuisine has been shaped by its history, with the Ottoman Empire, France, and other colonial powers leaving their mark on the local culinary traditions. As a result, Lebanese cuisine is a unique blend of different flavors and cooking techniques, with dishes such as Hummus and Falafel showcasing the country's Arabic heritage, while Shawarma and Kibbeh reflect the influence of Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Lebanese cuisine is also known for its emphasis on hospitality and generosity, with mealtimes often serving as opportunities for socializing and bonding with family and friends. The traditional Lebanese mezze, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers, is a key part of the country's culinary culture, with dishes such as Tabbouleh, Fattoush, and Baba Ghanoush offering a taste of the country's fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kibbeh | Main Course | Ground meat and bulgur dish, often served raw or fried | Restaurants in Beirut and other major cities |
| Shawarma | Street Food | Grilled meat sandwich, typically served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce | Street food stalls and restaurants throughout the country |
| Tabbouleh | Salad | Fresh parsley and bulgur salad, mixed with tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice | Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas |
| Falafel | Street Food | Crispy, flavorful chickpea patties, often served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce | Street food stalls and restaurants throughout the country |
| Hummus | Appetizer | Creamy chickpea dip, often served with pita bread or vegetables | Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas |
| Fattoush | Salad | Toasted bread and mixed greens salad, mixed with vegetables and feta cheese | Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas |
| Baba Ghanoush | Appetizer | Smoky eggplant dip, often served with pita bread or vegetables | Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas |
| Shish Taouk | Main Course | Grilled chicken skewers, often served with garlic and lemon juice | Restaurants in Beirut and other major cities |
| Kafta | Main Course | Ground meat and spice mixture, often grilled or baked | Restaurants in Beirut and other major cities |
| Ma'amoul | Dessert | Shortbread-like cookies, filled with dates or nuts | Bakeries and cafes throughout the country |
Street Food & Snacks
- Shawarma: a grilled meat sandwich, typically served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce, costing around $3-5 USD
- Falafel: crispy, flavorful chickpea patties, often served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce, costing around $2-3 USD
- Ka'ak: a crispy, sesame-topped bread, often filled with cheese or meat, costing around $1-2 USD
- Lahm Bi Aajin: a thin crust topped with minced meat and spices, costing around $2-3 USD
- Arayes: a pita bread filled with minced meat and spices, costing around $2-3 USD
- Zalabia: a deep-fried doughnut, often coated in sugar or honey, costing around $1-2 USD
- Kunafeh: a dessert made from shredded phyllo dough and cheese, costing around $3-5 USD
- Baklawa: a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough and nuts, costing around $2-3 USD
Drinks
- Ahweh: a strong, cardamom-flavored coffee, often served in small cups
- Jallab: a sweet, molasses-like drink, made from dates and molasses
- Sharbat: a sweet, fruit-flavored drink, made from fruit syrup and water
- Arak: a strong, anise-flavored liquor, often served with water and ice
- Lebanese wine: a variety of wines, including red, white, and rosé, made from local grapes
- Fresh juice: a variety of fresh juices, made from local fruits such as orange, grapefruit, and pomegranate
Dining Customs
- Eating with the right hand: it is customary to eat with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean
- Respecting the host: it is customary to respect the host and wait for them to invite you to eat
- Trying a little of everything: it is customary to try a little of everything, as a sign of respect for the host and the food
- Not finishing a meal completely: it is customary to leave a little food on the plate, as a sign that the host has provided enough food
- Tipping: 10-15% of the total bill is customary
- Dress code: modest dress is recommended, especially when visiting rural areas or attending traditional meals
Where to Eat
- Restaurants: a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Lebanese eateries to modern fusion restaurants
- Cafes: a variety of cafes, serving coffee, pastries, and light meals
- Street food stalls: a variety of street food stalls, serving traditional Lebanese dishes such as shawarma and falafel
- Markets: a variety of markets, selling fresh produce, spices, and other ingredients
- Food courts: a variety of food courts, offering a range of international and local cuisine
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Souk El Tayeb: a weekly market in Beirut, selling fresh produce, spices, and other ingredients
- Beirut Souks: a historic market in Beirut, selling a variety of goods, including food, spices, and souvenirs
- Byblos Market: a weekly market in Byblos, selling fresh produce, spices, and other ingredients
- Tyre Market: a weekly market in Tyre, selling fresh produce, spices, and other ingredients
- Lebanese Wine Country: a region in the Bekaa Valley, known for its wine production and offering wine tastings and tours