MARY’S CULINARY PASSPORT · POSTCARDS
Lebanon
AT A GLANCE
FOOD FIRST
Food Culture
Lebanese cuisine is fresh, herbaceous and generous, built around mezze, grains, vegetables, grilled meats and bright citrus.
Signature Foods
Tabbouleh
parsley-rich bulgur salad
Kibbeh
seasoned meat and bulgur preparation
Man’oushe
flatbread with za’atar or cheese
Mujadara
lentils and rice with onions
Ingredients & Flavors
Regional Specialties
Beirut
vibrant mezze and contemporary dining
Mount Lebanon
orchard fruit and preserved foods
Coast
seafood and citrus
Dining Customs
Dining customs vary by family, region and setting, but these practical notes offer a thoughtful starting point.
Mezze rhythm
Many small dishes arrive for sharing before grilled meats or fish, so pace yourself.
Hospitality
Hosts often continue offering food; accept graciously and signal fullness with thanks rather than abrupt refusal.
Bread and sharing
Flatbread acts as a utensil for dips and salads; take from communal dishes with the right hand or serving spoon.
Markets & Culinary Experiences
Visit local produce markets, bakeries and neighborhood food halls to see how olive oil, lemon, parsley shape everyday cooking. A guided market walk or small cooking class is a welcoming way to meet local cooks and learn the stories behind the table.
Souk el Tayeb
Beirut
Beirut Souks farmers’ events
Beirut
Old Souks
Tripoli
Market days, hours and locations can change. Confirm current details before visiting.
TRAVEL SECOND
Cities & Attractions
Beirut
Byblos
Baalbek
Things to Do
Baalbek
Explore monumental Roman temples in the Beqaa Valley.
Byblos
Walk the archaeological site, old souk and Mediterranean harbor.
Jeita Grotto
Tour vast limestone caves north of Beirut.
Qadisha Valley
Hike among cliffs, monasteries and cedar landscapes.
Festivals & Traditions
Baalbeck International Festival · Usually July and August
Music and performance take place among the Roman ruins.
Beiteddine Art Festival · Usually summer
Concerts and theater animate a 19th-century palace setting.
Eid al-Fitr and Easter · Dates vary
Families gather around sweets and festive meals across Lebanon's religious communities.
Festival dates and programs can shift from year to year, especially those tied to lunar or religious calendars. Confirm the current schedule before traveling.
Traditions to Notice
Coffee welcome
Strong Arabic coffee is served at visits and occasions, often in small handleless cups.
Dabke
Line dancing with rhythmic steps brings communities together at weddings and festivals.
Before You Go
Capital: Beirut Primary language: Arabic Currency: Lebanese pound
Opening times, entry rules and local conditions can change. Confirm practical details with official destination sources before traveling.