With so many things setting them apart, coffee is one thing that all Lebanese conjure over more than their rich mezzas. It is part of the lifestyle here to have a cup after a meal and during social visits. Consequently, when you are in Lebanon, you will find a plethora of charming cafes that will surely leave you in awe, so grab yourself a cup of coffee, a great book and get lost in the Lebanon café wonders. These are 10 Cozy Cafés in Lebanon.
Here we selected a few of those options:
Dar Bistro & Books (Hamra)
Commonly known as Dar (“Home” in Arabic): This oasis is nestled in an alley away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of Hamra. Grab a rainbow seat in the garden terrace and order from a Mediterranean inspired menu. Combines a book boutique whilst being a great place to grab a glass of wine and unwind. It is truly a unique atmosphere with a two fold into one of the last standing heritage houses of Beirut.
Cafe Younes (Hamra)
If you are a coffee connoisseur, look no further than Café Younes, as it is one of the longest standing institutions, with multiple locations in Beirut. Café Younes is known for its specialty coffee roaster making signature drinks, like the toasted marshmallow. Beyond the coffee here, they have an incredible selection of baked goods and fresh sandwiches. This is where contemporary and homely meet blissfully, as there are organized poetry readings and live music nights.
Urbanista (Gemmayze)
If you are looking for a trendy/hipster spot this cosmopolitan spirited café is for you. Decorated with red brick walls interlaced with books and filled with comfortable leather couches spaced with large wood communal tables. This makes for the perfect spot to be productive, read a book, or chatter.
Aaliya’s Books (Gemmayze)
Café by day and bar by night. The outside full-length mirrors and the infamous umbrella alleyway will enthrall you from the get go, especially since it is one of the rare non-smoking bars in Beirut. This dual-identity spot is worth checking out with its convivial atmosphere populated by regulars chatting with the friendly owners, as well as curious bibliophiles browsing the stacks. Follow their Facebook page for their events like Monday swing dance and book clubs.
SIP (Gemmayze)
A quirky and creative environment with a diverse clientele, this café dances finely on the cusp of posh and hipster. With its vibrant interior, patio outdoor seating, and pet friendly components, you won’t find any other place as accepting and welcoming as SIP.
Café Em Nazih (Gemmayze)
A casual yet dynamic environment that has an element of originality to it because of its self-service concept. This is the place to take people visiting Lebanon. A home-style café with a restaurant twist offering appetizers, delicious daily specials, hookah options, and themed events.
Kalei Coffee Co. (Mar Mikhail)
Tucked away in the backstreets of Mar Mikhail is this hidden gem. With its desaturated color theme and their three layer seating options (rooftop, indoor, and patio), this is a great place to escape to when you are in need of a little injection of nature.
New Yorker (Badaro)
This underrated Central Perk inspired café is a must-visit. Don’t be deceived by its small entry area, as this place has indoor, outdoor, underground, and backyard seating options. A great place for a study date or a mini board game night. Grab a seat on their comfortable couches and enjoy the sound of FRIENDS playing in the background.
Barley & Bean Coffee House (Kaslik)
Located in Kaslik, this two floor 24/7 café has a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Order one of their signature drinks, a sandwich, and grab a seat upstairs to overlook North Lebanon. Whether you are studying, playing a board game, or just reading a book, nothing beats the environment at this quaint café.
Unicorn Coffee House (Broumana)
I saved this for last because it is just one of those places you want to keep to yourself but know that the world must know. An orange vintage couch and coffee in big mugs, what more can resemble this Central Perk inspired café? Go during Holidays to get a cozy feel among the bright lights, Christmas tree, and heaters.
Check out my Goodreads for some books to read while you are chilling at these 10 Cozy Cafés in Lebanon.
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