15 Things That Remind Us Exactly Why We Love Beirut

Every once in a while, we’re reminded of all the reasons we love Beirut. We can’t help but savor the little things in the city that make us smile, here are 15 of them.

1. Any amazing shot of the Pigeon rocks at sunset

We don’t care how many times we see the Pigeon rocks in Raouche, whether it be in person or through photographs. Taking the coastal road is more enjoyable when the sun’s out.

2. Finding plant-filled Beirut balconies

While strolling through the streets in Beirut, make sure you look up every once in a while. The balconies in the city are a spectacle, often filled with gorgeous plants that are dangling over the railing.

3. Spotting Beirutis as they enjoy the best sobhiye

Whether it be old couples strolling through the streets, or age-old friends peacefully playing a game of backgammon.

4. Catching a whiff of freshly made manakish from your local furn

There’s something about the smell of manakish in the morning (or any time of day for that matter) that immediately uplifts our mood. It won’t even matter that we already had a hefty meal, we’ll be craving a manouche as soon as we smell it.

5. Getting your usual at your favorite Beirut coffee shop

A familiar “Hi, keefak/ik?” before the barista makes your go-to order so you can go about your day. Especially once you’re on a first name basis, then you just can’t help but develop a soft spot for that coffee shop.

6. Waking up to the sound of the kaak vendor on an early morning

Every time we hear someone yell out “Kaak kaak!” in the morning, we feel oddly calm. A comforting reminder of home that we’ll always love (even if it wakes us up from the best sleep of our lives).

7. Seeing stray cats gathered around Bliss Street

Yes, they’re annoying when they see you holding anything edible. They will often attack you in an attempt to steal your food, or make a face so cute that you just can’t NOT give them your food. But seeing them gathering around that lovely old lady who feeds them is the most wholesome thing ever.

8. Spotting people sunbathing the second there’s an ounce of sunlight

No one loves the summertime as much as Lebanese people do, and even if it’s only 15 degrees out, you’ll find people sunbathing alongside the fishermen in Corniche El Manara.

9. Catching a glimpse of the beautiful architecture in Gemmayze

The area is overwhelmingly beautiful, and it’s easy to not know where to look. The street has some of the most colorful spots, with triple arch architecture that brings back that old Beirut feel.

10. Finding hidden gems that feel like a Fairouz song

We love the trend of cafés and restaurants embodying Beirut nostalgia, especially places like Levant in Gemmayze, Al Makan in Mar Elias, and BEYt in Mar Mikhael. As soon as you step in, you can’t help but feel like these destinations were inspired by a Fairouz song.

11. Finding random dogs equally enjoying Beirut life

Seeing them fully immersed in the city life makes you truly believe that they were born and raised as Beirutis. Greeting locals, enjoying the weather, and people watching with you at a sidewalk café – typical of anyone who lives in the bustling city.

12. Knowing exactly where you are based on the graffiti

Some areas in Beirut have some of the most iconic graffiti gracing their walls. Like the iconic Fairuz piece in Gemmazye, or the many Sabah murals found all over the city, including Hamra.

13. Finding vintage cars parked around the city

Especially that one iconic van in Gemmayze that’s always parked in front of Pizza Guys. The street feels quite empty without it.

14. Remembering that Al Ba3sa building exists

Do you ever randomly remember that Al Ba3sa building is a real thing? The best example of Lebanese pettiness that makes us laugh every time we drive by it, here’s a video to sum up the story behind it.

15. Starting random conversations with the warmest people

Sometimes we’re not sure how we randomly start conversations with strangers, but it just happens and we love it. The people of Beirut are some of the kindest and most curious people you’ll meet.

Here are only 14 of the many reasons we love Beirut. How about sharing yours with us on Instagram?