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Mia Arawi

No Plans? Here Are 9 Chill Things to Do with Your Friends in Beirut


Not every day out needs to be packed with sightseeing or loud parties. Sometimes, all you need is good company, a cozy spot, and a little something to do. Whether you’re in the mood for coffee, a walk, or just a low-key hangout, here are some chill (but fun) plans you can try around Beirut with your friends.

1. Kickstart your day with a trip to The Glow Paradise in Gemmayze

If you’re planning to spend a laidback morning with your friends where you can sip on coffee and chitchat all the way through brunch, then this is the perfect place to do it.

The Glow Paradise is the ultimate spot to spend a slow morning in style. It’s tucked away in Gemmayze, so you’ll still feel the buzz of the city around you, with plenty of people-watching as the street comes to life.

Their menu is packed with wholesome dishes and standout coffee blends, and if you’re a fan of matcha, their version is a must-try. The Glow Paradise is all about healthy, feel-good food served in a stylish setting, making it a top pick for brunch lovers and anyone after a nourishing start to the day.

We actually have a list of must-try brunch bites from their menu! You can check it out here. For more information, you can check out their Instagram.

📍Location

Gouraud St. in Gemmayze, facing Swiss Butter

Click here for the exact location.

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday from 8 AM until 12 AM

📞 Contact

+961 79 149 111

2. Spend the afternoon getting your dose of Vitamin D at Jacaranda

If you’re craving a peaceful outdoor escape, this hidden gem is the perfect spot. Once a traditional Beiruti home, it’s now a vibrant cultural space that captures the essence of Lebanese heritage.

Sip on coffee or indulge in their signature grilled feta — topped with whole spices, honey, carob, and served with savory biscotti — all beneath blooming jacaranda trees.

📍Location

Mar Mikhael, near Kalei Coffee Co.

Click here for the exact location.

Opening Hours

Daily from 10 AM until 12 AM

📞 Contact

+961 76 637 522

3. Visit Depot Vente at their new location to score some great vintage finds

Everyone’s favorite thrift shop is back — now in a new Mar Mikhael spot, just around the corner from the old one. Bring your friends, dig through the racks, and you might just score a chic, affordable find.

📍 Location

Mar Mikhael, Badawi Street

Click here to find their new location.

Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday – 12 PM until 7 PM

📞 Contact
+961 3 200 620

4. Catch a film at Metropolis Cinema in Mar Mikhael

The European Film Festival will be taking place until May 11th. Tickets are priced at only 400,000 LBP, making it an awesome pocket-friendly activity to enjoy with your friends.

You can check out the full program below so you can decide on what films you’d like to catch:

📍 Location

Pharoun Street, Mar Mikhael

Click here for the exact location.

⏰ Opening Hours
Depending on program schedules

📞 Contact
+961 81 069 530

5. Book a watercolor painting class at Vernicé Café in Kouraytem

Creative minds and food lovers alike will feel right at home at Vernice Creative Café — a vibrant spot in the heart of Beirut where good food meets fresh canvases and colorful brush strokes.

Vernice hosts a variety of creative workshops, including watercolor mosaics, “first paint, then draw,” prismatic painting, three-color techniques, doodling, and dripping color sessions.


📍 Location

Madame Curie, Kouraytem

Click here for the exact location.

⏰ Opening Hours
Daily from 8 AM until 11:30 PM (starting 4 PM on Sundays)

📞 Contact
+961 71 599 455

6. Check out the stunning heart-shaped amethyst formations at MIM Museum

Did you know these stunning heart-shaped amethyst formations are displayed at the MIM Museum in Beirut?

The MIM Museum houses one of the world’s most impressive private collections of minerals—curated by Salim Eddé since 1997. With over 1,800 mineral specimens from 70+ countries, the museum blends science, art, and nature into a mesmerizing experience.

📍Location

Ground floor of the Innovation and Sports Campus of the Saint-Joseph University in Beirut

Click here for the exact location.

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday

10 AM until 1 PM – 2 PM until 6 PM

📞 Contact

+961 1 421 672

7. Treat yourselves to Mexican bites at El Pastor

A hidden Mexican gem you need to visit! El Pastor delivers bold, authentic flavors with expertly marinated meats, handmade tortillas, and vibrant salsas.

Menu highlights include their must-try guac and corn chips, Yucatan-style prawns, and the signature Al Pastor tacos — a true standout you don’t want to miss.

📍Location

Rue Pasteur, Gemmayze

Click here for the exact location.

⏰ Opening Hours

Daily from 12 PM until 12 AM

📞 Contact

+961 3 536 596

8. Go vintage shopping at Bob’s Vintage in Hamra

Obsessed with vintage? On the hunt for your next unique find? Bob’s Vintage is a hidden gem in the heart of Beirut — a treasure trove just waiting to be discovered.

From fully functional digital cameras (yes, we tested them) to original Ziad Rahbani vinyls and vintage typewriters, the shop is packed with gems that’ll have you browsing for hours.

📍Location

Hamra, next to Citizen Smith

Click here for the exact location.

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday from 10 AM until 6 PM

📞 Contact

+961 70 025 243

9. Pass by GOŪ to try their matcha ice cream

This Japanese deli is known for its iconic strawberry matcha latte, but don’t miss the matcha ice cream — topped with salty pretzels for the perfect sweet-and-savory combo.

Did you know that they host brunch parties on Saturdays? If you’re not much of a morning person, then this is one daytime activity to look forward to with your friends.

📍 Location

Gemmayze, near Munchease Diner

Click here for the exact location.

Opening Hours

Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM until 10 PM

Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM until 1 AM

📞 Contact

+961 76 569 526

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