Al Halabi Restaurant

Beirut, Lebanon

Family-run Al Halabi in Antelias, just north of Beirut, is one of Lebanon's oldest restaurants. The traditional, no-frills dining room – white tablecloths, a single rose in a vase – belies the kitchen team's skill. Classic Lebanese fare is elegantly served up by suited waiters, who bear trays of all the hot and cold meze favourites, the likes of lemony stuffed vine leaves, sambousik (meat-filled pastries), makanek (Lebanese sausages in pomegranate molasses), chicken livers, smoked eggplant dips and hummus, best eaten with pillowy flatbreads. The kebabs are said to be some of the juiciest around, while other signature dishes include beef tartare, and moudardara (lentils with rice and caramelised onions). All that said, the sweets alone are worth a visit – the mahalabia (Middle Eastern milk pudding) draws fans from miles around.

Key Information

• Average price per person $35
• Lunch and dinner: Mon – Sun
• 961 4 523 555

Location

Antelias Square, Rahbani Brothers Street, Antelias, Beirut, 1503 Beirut