Falafel Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate Lebanon’s Street Food. In Beirut, places serving falafel, shawarma, manakish, and other classics are part of daily life: reliable, affordable, and full of flavor. These longstanding favorites continue to draw crowds for quick, authentic Lebanese meals that never go out of style. Here’s our roundup of some of the spots we love.
Falafel Sahyoun, Damascus Road
Open since 1933, Falafel Sahyoun (+961 1 659 139) has been serving up its signature sandwiches to generations of Beirutis. In 2006, a family split led to the opening of two nearly identical branches, side by side, each claiming the original legacy. Both follow the same recipe, and the sandwich remains a street food favorite, a crispy falafel ball flattened onto fresh bread, layered with tomatoes, parsley, pickled turnip and a drizzle of tarator sauce then tightly rolled into a satisfying vegetarian bite. It’s no surprise this classic takes center stage on Falafel Day, a celebration of one of Lebanon’s most beloved bites.
Snack Faysal, Bliss Street
Once a full restaurant, Faysal (+961 1 367 281) has since transitioned into a snack bar but it remains a Bliss Street staple. Open 24/7, it’s one of the most popular spots in Hamra for a quick, satisfying bite at any hour. Known for many things, the spinach fatayer are a standout. These golden pastries are filled with a perfectly balanced mix of spinach, onions, lemon juice, olive oil and spices. Available in both small and large sizes, they’re a must-try for anyone passing through.
Furn Abed Al Aziz, Hamra
Perhaps Lebanon’s most beloved street food, manouche is a treat many Lebanese crave when abroad. The classic version is traditionally topped with a mix of thyme and olive oil and baked to perfection, but manouche comes in a variety of toppings to suit every taste. At Furn Abed Al Aziz (+961 1 735030), located at one of Hamra’s busiest crossroads, they offer a unique twist by using accaoui cheese as an alternative topping. For those who want the best of both worlds, there’s a choice between a mini version or a manouche cocktail which is half cheese, half thyme. Open 24/7, it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings any time of day or night.
Bliss House, Bliss Street
Open 24/7, Bliss House (+961 1 366 290) is the go-to spot for a refreshing energy boost after a day wandering Beirut’s streets. Their famous cocktail pieces blend fresh pineapple, kiwi, banana, strawberry and other seasonal fruits in a cup, topped with creamy ashta (clotted cream). A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of pistachios add the perfect touch of sweetness and crunch. Serving generations of American University of Beirut students since 1978, this fruity treat is a beloved local classic.
Barbar, Spears Street
Originally a butcher shop, Barbar (+961 1 753 330) has grown into one of Lebanon’s most iconic street food chains, with branches now open in Saudi Arabia, Cairo and the UAE. Tasty, affordable and always buzzing, it’s a go-to spot for everything from pizzas and Lebanese specialties to all kinds of sandwiches. We recommend the kafta sandwich: grilled ground meat mixed with parsley and onions, served with hummus and Barbar’s signature sauce. Add fries if you like, but the sandwich holds its own. Open 24/7, Barbar is always busy whether day or night.
Ichkhanian Traditional Bakery, Zokak el Blat
Established in 1946, Ichkhanian (+961 1 375 178) offers a distinctive take on one of Lebanon’s most beloved street foods. With locations in Beirut and Zalka and open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, the bakery specializes in lahem bajeen: minced meat mixed with onions, garlic, tomatoes and spices, spread on thin dough and baked in a traditional oven. It is served in two signature styles: the Armenian version and the Halabi variation, with pomegranate molasses and pine nuts.
Boubouffe, Achrafieh
A household name in Beirut, Boubouffe (+961 1 334 040) has been serving up quality street food for decades. While the menu includes a wide range of sandwiches, its shawarma stands out thanks to its signature charcoal grilling and rich flavor. Whether beef with hummus and vegetables or chicken with a mild garlic sauce and fries, each sandwich is a balanced and satisfying bite. Prices are slightly higher than average but the quality speaks for itself. Located in Achrafieh, Boubouffe is open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 11 pm.
Restaurant Joseph, Sin El Fil
The Lebanese shawarma is recognized as on of the tastiest sandwiches in the world. At Restaurant Joseph (+961 1 510 520), visitors can enjoy flavorful chicken and meat options, also serves a variety of street food staples including falafel burgers, chicken submarines and assorted grilled sandwiches. Open daily from 12:30 pm to 11:30 pm, it’s a solid pick for a midday meal or late-night craving.
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If you enjoyed reading this, check out our article on Armenian food in Lebanon.
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