Food in Lebanon is a vibrant and delicious reflection of the country’s rich culture and history. Known for its variety and freshness, Lebanese cuisine features a mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, and spices. Dishes like hummus, a smooth blend of chickpeas and tahini, and tabbouleh, a refreshing parsley and bulgur salad, are staples. Kebabs, shawarma, and falafel are popular street foods that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Lebanese meals often include an array of appetizers, called mezze, offering a taste of many flavors in one sitting. The use of olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs gives Lebanese dishes their distinctive taste. Eating in Lebanon is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of hospitality and family. Whether you’re savoring a meal at a bustling market or a cozy restaurant, food in Lebanon promises to be a delightful experience.
Indulge in Delicious Food in Lebanon
Food in Lebanon is a flavorful journey through the Mediterranean, characterized by its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Meals in Lebanon are often enjoyed with family and friends, reflecting the country’s warm hospitality and love for sharing good food. Every bite offers a taste of Lebanon’s rich culinary heritage. We have curated down the list of top 14 food items in Lebanon, don’t forget to savor on these delicacies:
1. Kibbeh
2. Kafta
3. Kanafeh
4. Hummus
5. Rice Pilaf
6. Fattoush
7. Manakish
8. Tabbouleh
9. Sfeeha
10. Falafel
11. Shawarma
12. Kebabs
13. Baba Ganoush
14. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
1. Kibbeh
Kibbeh is the Lebanese National dish you will definitely want to try. It features spiced ground meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with bulgur wheat and shaped into patties or balls. These can be baked, fried, or served raw, depending on the style. The meat is often seasoned with a mix of spices, including cinnamon and allspice, giving Kibbeh a rich, savory flavor. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect as an appetizer or main course, and a great way to experience traditional Lebanese cooking.
Restaurants Serving Kibbeh:
- Yesemek Gaziantep Mutfağı
- Ali Usta Gurme
- İmam Çağdaş Kebap ve Baklava Salonu
- Hayad Restoran Gaziantep
- Bogazkoy
- Zuzu Restaurant
- Mutfak Sanatları Merkezi
- Lavash Ciğer
- Ali Dayı'nın Yeri Gaziantep
- Küşleme Kebaphan
- Küşlemeci Mehmet Usta
- Bekirbey Ocakbaşı
- Etiler Balkon Gaziantep
- Yesemek Kebap & Beyran
Types:
- Raw Kibbeh (Kibbeh Nayyeh)
- Baked Kibbeh (Kibbeh Bil Sanieh)
- Fried Kibbeh (Kibbeh Maklieh)
- Grilled Kibbeh (Kibbeh Meshwiyeh)
- Kibbeh Labanieh (Kibbeh in Yogurt Sauce)
- Kibbeh Sajiyeh (Pan-Fried Kibbeh)
- Vegetarian Kibbeh
- Kibbeh Mabroomeh
2. Kafta
Kafta is traditional food in Lebanon you’ll love if you enjoy grilled meat. It consists of spiced ground meat, usually beef or lamb, mixed with onions, parsley, and a variety of seasonings. The mixture is formed into skewers or patties and grilled to perfection. Kafta is often served with flatbread, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce. It’s a flavorful and versatile dish, showcasing the bold spices and grilling techniques central to Lebanese cuisine.
Restaurants Serving Kafta:
- İmam Çağdaş Kebap ve Baklava Salonu
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Hayad Restoran Gaziantep
- Lavash Ciğer
- Yesemek Gaziantep Mutfağı
- Tahmis Kahvesi
- Bogazkoy
- Dukat Kebap
- Metanet lokantası
- Kaburgacı Kaburgantep kebap
- Assado Kasapsteak House
- Akınal Gar Restaurant
- Salsa Restaurant
Types:
- Kafta Meshwi
- Kafta Bil-Siniya
- Kafta with Vegetables
- Kafta Shawarma
- Kafta with Rice
- Kafta with Hummus
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3. Kanafeh
Kanafeh is a sweet dessert and famous food in lebanon that you’ll find irresistible. It’s made from layers of shredded phyllo dough, filled with cheese or nuts, and then baked until crispy and golden. After baking, the dessert is drenched in a fragrant syrup made from sugar and rose water or orange blossom water. Kanafeh offers a delightful mix of textures, with a crunchy exterior and a sweet filling. It’s a popular treat for special occasions and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Restaurants Serving Kanafeh:
- İmam Çağdaş Kebap ve Baklava Salonu
- Gaziantep Cumba Künefe Kadayıf
- Ömer Kozan Baklava
- Mahrouseh Sweet
- Benşioğlu Tatlı
- Künefe Han
- Küşleme Kebaphan
Types:
- Künefe
- Börek Kanafeh
- Katmer Kanafeh
- Saraylı Kanafeh
- Pişmaniye Kanafeh
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4. Hummus
Hummus is a versatile and creamy dip that you’ll enjoy. It’s made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. The result is a smooth, rich dip that pairs perfectly with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches. Hummus is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is loved for its delicious taste and healthy ingredients. It’s both satisfying and easy to enjoy as a snack or part of a larger meal making it best cuisine in Lebanon.
Restaurants Serving Hummus:
- İmam Çağdaş Kebap ve Baklava Salonu
- Pendirhan Atmali Kebap ve Kahvaltı Sarayı
- Mutfak Sanatları Merkezi
- Zeugma Cafe
- Yesemek Gaziantep Mutfağı
- Ünal restoran
- Akınal Gar Restaurant
- Tahmis Kahvesi
Types:
- Classic Hummus
- Hummus with Meat
- Hummus with Pomegranate Seeds
- Hummus with Spices
- Hummus with Pine Nuts
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5. Rice Pilaf
Rice Pilaf is a comforting and flavorful side dish you’ll appreciate. It’s made with rice cooked in a savory broth, often with the addition of spices like cinnamon and bay leaves. The rice is typically mixed with ingredients such as nuts, raisins, or vegetables, giving it a rich and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a best food in Lebanon that pairs well with a variety of main courses, adding a touch of aromatic flavor to your meal. Rice Pilaf is easily available at all the best places to visit in Lebanon.
Restaurants Serving Rice Pilaf:
- İmam Çağdaş
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Café Tostçu
- Zeytinli Konak
- Anadolu Sofrası
Types:
- Plain Rice Pilaf
- Rice Pilaf with Vermicelli
- Rice Pilaf with Nuts
- Rice Pilaf with Vegetables
- Pilaf with Meat
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6. Fattoush
Fattoush is a refreshing Lebanese salad you’ll want to try. It combines mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and crispy pieces of pita bread, all tossed in a tangy lemon and sumac dressing. The crispy pita adds a delightful crunch, while the fresh vegetables make it light and flavorful. Fattoush is a popular choice as a side dish or a light meal, offering a vibrant and zesty taste of Lebanese cuisine.
Restaurants Serving Fattoush:
- İmam Çağdaş
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Zeytinli Konak
- Sarayköy Sofrası
- Kokoreççi Yaşar
Types:
- Classic Fattoush
- Fattoush with Pomegranate Seeds
- Fattoush with Sumac
- Fattoush with Grilled Vegetables
- Fattoush with Chicken
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7. Manakish
Manakish is a delicious Lebanese flatbread you’ll find irresistible and its find at one of the best places to visit in Lebanon. It’s topped with a variety of ingredients such as za'atar (a blend of herbs and spices), cheese, or minced meat. The bread is baked until crispy and the toppings are perfectly melted or toasted. Manakish can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. It’s a versatile and tasty way to experience the rich flavors of Lebanese baking and is a favorite among locals.
Restaurants Serving Manakish:
- Yorgo’s
- Mangal Keyfi
- İsmailoğlu Pide
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Güllüoğlu
Types:
- Za'atar Manakish
- Cheese Manakish
- Minced Meat Manakish
- Spinach Manakish
- Mixed Manakish
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8. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a vibrant Lebanese salad you’ll enjoy for its fresh flavors, and it can be added to the list of top things to do in Lebanon. It’s made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bulgur wheat, all dressed in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing. The combination of fresh herbs and crisp vegetables creates a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect as a side or a standalone meal. Tabbouleh is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, highlighting the country’s love for fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Restaurants Serving Tabbouleh:
- İmam Çağdaş
- Yunus Restaurant
- Saraylı Kebap
- Zeytinli Konak
- Café Tostçu
Types:
- Classic Tabbouleh
- Tabbouleh with Pomegranate Seeds
- Tabbouleh with Extra Parsley
- Tabbouleh with Tomato and Cucumber
- Tabbouleh with Mint
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9. Sfeeha
Sfeeha, also known as Lebanese meat pies, are a delightful treat you’ll love. They feature a savory filling made from ground meat, such as beef or lamb, mixed with onions, pine nuts, and spices, all nestled in a soft, round pastry. The pies are baked until golden and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Sfeeha is often served at the restaurants in Lebanon as part of a mezze spread or as a tasty snack, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Lebanon.
Restaurants Serving Sfeeha:
- Fırıncıoğlu
- Çıtır Usta
- Şehir Gazinosu
- Saraylı Kebap
- Kebapçı İskender
Types:
- Beef Sfeeha
- Lamb Sfeeha
- Chicken Sfeeha
- Vegetarian Sfeeha
- Spiced Sfeeha
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10. Falafel
Falafel is a must-try street food that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These deep-fried patties are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices. They’re commonly served in pita bread with veggies and tahini sauce. You’ll find falafel stands all over Lebanon, and it’s a delicious, hearty option that’s perfect for a quick meal or a snack. It’s a great way to experience the bold flavors of Lebanese cuisine. When enjoying nightlife in Lebanon, don’t forget to savor the delicacies of Lebanon.
Restaurants Serving Falafel:
- Falafel House
- Yunus Restaurant
- Kebabçı Halil Usta
- Çılgın Falafel
- Café Tostçu
Types:
- Classic Falafel
- Falafel with Tahini
- Falafel with Hummus
- Falafel with Pickles
- Falafel Wrap
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11. Shawarma
Shawarma is a savory treat you’ll enjoy. This popular street food features marinated meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is sliced thin and served in a wrap with veggies and sauce. The unique blend of spices and the slow-cooked process create a juicy, flavorful experience. Shawarma is a staple in Lebanese food and a fantastic way to taste the rich, aromatic flavors of the region.
Restaurants Serving Shawarma:
- Şahin Bey Kebap
- Güllüoğlu
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Saraylı Kebap
- Beyti Kebap
Types:
- Beef Shawarma
- Chicken Shawarma
- Lamb Shawarma
- Turkey Shawarma
- Mixed Shawarma
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12. Kebabs
Kebabs are a delightful choice when you want something grilled and flavorful. These skewers of marinated meat, usually beef or lamb, are grilled to perfection and often served with rice or flatbread. The marinade is typically a mix of spices and herbs, giving the meat a delicious, smoky flavor. Kebabs are a popular part of Lebanese meals, offering a taste of the region’s love for grilled dishes and rich, aromatic spices.
Restaurants Serving Kebabs:
- İmam Çağdaş
- Kebapçı Halil Usta
- Şahin Bey Kebap
- Café Tostçu
- Beyti Kebap
Types:
- Shish Kebab
- Adana Kebab
- Kofta Kebab
- Doner Kebab
- Kebab Hindi
- Iskender Kebab
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13. Baba Ganoush
Baba Ganoush is a delicious, smoky eggplant dip that you’ll want to try. Made by roasting eggplant until it’s tender and then blending it with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, it’s creamy and flavorful. This dip is often enjoyed with pita bread or fresh vegetables. The roasted flavor of the eggplant combined with the tangy tahini makes Baba Ganoush a standout appetizer or side dish in Lebanese cuisine.
Restaurants Serving Baba Ganoush:
- İmam Çağdaş
- Yorgo’s
- Zeytinli Konak
- Saraylı Kebap
- Sarayköy Sofrası
Types:
- Classic Baba Ganoush
- Baba Ganoush with Pomegranate Seeds
- Baba Ganoush with Tahini
- Baba Ganoush with Olive Oil
- Spicy Baba Ganoush
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14. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
Stuffed grape leaves, or Warak Enab, are a flavorful and unique dish you’ll love. Grape leaves are filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices, then rolled up and cooked until tender. The result is a savory and aromatic bite that’s both satisfying and delicious. These stuffed leaves are often enjoyed as part of a mezze platter, letting you sample a variety of Lebanese flavors in one meal.
Restaurants Serving Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab):
- İmam Çağdaş
- Yunus Restaurant
- Zeytinli Konak
- Saraylı Kebap
- Güllüoğlu
Types:
- Classic Stuffed Grape Leaves
- Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice
- Stuffed Grape Leaves with Meat
- Stuffed Grape Leaves with Pine Nuts
- Stuffed Grape Leaves with Vegetables
Food in Lebanon offers a delightful adventure for your taste buds, filled with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. From the creamy richness of hummus to the sweet, syrupy goodness of kanafeh, every dish tells a story of Lebanon's rich culture and history. Whether you're enjoying a zesty salad like fattoush or savoring a hearty meal of kibbeh and kafta, the diversity and warmth of Lebanese cuisine make every bite memorable. Exploring Lebanese food is not just about eating; it's about experiencing the heart of Lebanon through its flavors. Make sure to discover our exclusive Lebanon tour packages that offer the best of both the culinary and cultural experiences this amazing country has to offer.
Food in Lebanon FAQ’s
Food in Lebanese culture is deeply tied to family and community. Meals are often shared with loved ones and are a central part of social gatherings and celebrations. Lebanese cuisine reflects the country’s rich history and cultural influences, and the act of preparing and sharing food is seen as an expression of hospitality and love.
A traditional Lebanese breakfast might include dishes like labneh (strained yogurt), za'atar (a herb and spice blend) with olive oil, and fresh pita bread. It often features olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and sometimes eggs cooked in various styles.
Popular Lebanese Street foods include falafel (deep-fried chickpea patties), shawarma (marinated meat cooked on a rotisserie), and manakish (flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or minced meat). These dishes are commonly found at street vendors and are loved for their delicious flavors and convenience.
Spices play a crucial role in Lebanese cuisine, adding depth and complexity to dishes. Common spices include cumin, cinnamon, allspice, and coriander. These spices are used to season meats, stews, and rice dishes.
During festive occasions, food in Lebanon is served as a lavish spread, often featuring a variety of mezze (appetizers), main courses like roasted meats or stews, and a selection of desserts. The meal is a feast for the senses, reflecting the celebratory nature of the occasion and the importance of hospitality.
Yes, Lebanese cuisine offers many delicious vegetarian options. Dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, and baba ganoush are plant-based and widely enjoyed. Additionally, stuffed grape leaves and falafel are popular choices for those following a vegetarian diet.
Lebanese rice pilaf is a flavorful rice dish cooked in a savory broth with ingredients like pine nuts, raisins, and spices. It’s often served as a side dish with grilled meats or stews. The rice is typically light and fluffy, with a hint of sweetness from the raisins and a nutty crunch from the pine nuts.
Kafta is a Lebanese dish made from ground meat, usually beef or lamb, mixed with onions, parsley, and spices. The mixture is shaped into skewers or patties and grilled. It’s often served with pita bread, vegetables, and sauces, offering a flavorful and satisfying option in Lebanese cuisine.
While Lebanese cuisine shares similarities with other Mediterranean cuisines, such as the use of fresh vegetables and olive oil, it is distinct in its specific spice blends, preparation methods, and traditional dishes. Food in Lebanese is known for its variety of mezze, unique seasoning, and its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Traditional Lebanese desserts include kanafeh (a sweet pastry made with shredded phyllo dough and cheese, soaked in syrup), baklava (sweet, layered pastry with nuts and honey), and maamoul (stuffed cookies with dates or nuts). These desserts are often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, adding a sweet ending to Lebanese meals.
