Cocktails: Top Beirut Bars
Lebanon is renowned for it’s nightlife like clubs and all night dance parties on the beach, however, the cocktail bar scene will give you just as much to talk about.
After a lot of personal “research,” here are some of my favorite places that you have to visit:
Union Marks - Tucked away in Bourj Hammoud (an Armenian district), this cocktail place has an indoor and outdoor space in an old clothing warehouse, which weaves in that history and details in the décor. The bathrooms are cool with birds chirping and a jungle-like vibe. The Lebanese think of every detail down to the toilet paper roll, which is what I always find so interesting and impressive. They host exhibitions every once in a while and it’s a place to see and be scene.
Ales & Tales - Three brothers have launched their own gin and hospitality company to make some of the best drink spots around the country from Beirut to Batroun. This spot is on a bustling street in Hamra, which you need to make time to get over to if you’ve based yourself in Gemmayze, Mar Mikhael or waterfront.
Central Station - Right in the heart of Mar Mikhael, this bar was built on the old central train station, which you can see in the design, this spot has been listed in the World’s 50 Best Bars.
Alex in Wanderland & I doing “research” for our retreat.
Kissproof - This spot has a special vibe in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Beirut called Badaro. The in-house DJ spins all night, while people filter in and out of the bar to the sidewalks or the terrace. It’s a local favorite.
In the same neighborhood, not to be missed are Attic Bar and Jerry Thomas (same owners as Ales & Tales).
House of Butlers - Relatively new on the scene off a main road in Gemmayze, this cocktail bar is great for a scene and a fantastic cocktail. It’s not a big venue so snag a seat when you can.
Below is a hot night in August at Butlers. Follow me for more Lebanon tips or join me in September, so I can show you personally my favorite spots in the custom itinerary.
Cheers!
