Food — Lebanon's Greatest Export
Lebanese cuisine is arguably the most influential in the Middle East and one of the most beloved globally. In Lebanon itself, you experience it at its freshest, most diverse, and most affordable. The culture of sharing food — mezze spreads, communal grills, and long family lunches — is central to Lebanese social life.
- Mezze: the art of Lebanese dining — 10–20 small dishes shared communally; hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, moutabal, kibbeh, sambousek
- Manouche: Lebanon's signature street breakfast — flatbread with za'atar, cheese, or both; $0.50–$1.50 from bakeries
- Shawarma: ubiquitous street food — chicken or meat wrapped in fresh bread; $1.50–$3
- Fine dining: Beirut has a growing haute cuisine scene; world-class restaurants for $50–$100 per person
- Wine: Lebanon has 5,000+ years of winemaking; Château Musar, Château Ksara, and Domaine des Tourelles are world-renowned
- Arak: the national spirit — anise-flavored, served with mezze and water; an essential Lebanese experience
- Coffee culture: Lebanese and Turkish coffee traditions; specialty coffee shops booming in Beirut
