Bar and cafe
Makes the heart grow fonder
Smash HiFi
The nearly two-decade-old 37 Degrees is one of Monot's gems. This lounge bar gets far hotter than its name would let on, and while the place caters to your urge for dancing, if you come in on a quiet night, it can be a perfect pre-clubbing venue, with its intimate lounge, impressive selection of shots and charmingly petit outdoor terrace.
Monot Main Alley, AchrafiehOne of the more spacious lounges in Gemmayzeh, 55 Lounge-Bar gladly caters to bigger groups. If you're looking for a quick escape from the other, packed, smaller bars dotting Gouraud, come here and lean back on one of the fluffy couches. Cherry on top - the staff is extremely helpful and friendly.
55 Lounge-Bar, Gourard Str, Next to Rehab, GemmayzehThe bright red walls in this Hamra pub are barely visible, hidden behind flags and memorabilia from the Lebanese National Movement and hundreds of photos, postcards and posters of communist icons from Che and Mao to Lebanon's own, George Hawi. Abu Elie's is a magnificent piece of the Beirut puzzle; a place where music like Sheikh Imam, Fairuz, Zeyad and Marcel still play regularly; a perfect place to talk with old and new friends about philosophy, politics, or history.
Bloc B, Caracas Str (aka Bahrain Str), Near Bella Riva Suites, ManaraThe only openly LGBT friendly club gets packed with dancers until dawn. Check out the huge statue of Indian deity Shiva and impressive laser light show as you rock out to rave, hard house and techno music.
Futuroscope Str, Next to Futuroscope Mall, Sin el FilThis three-floor restaurant/bar has a lovely rooftop terrace and a delicious menu of appetisers. All this, augmented by an enticing cocktail list of new wave concoctions, which will get you in the mood for the amazing ambience at night. The music is a wonderful mix of funk, pop and indie. Seats 70 on the roof and 40 in the garden terrace.
St Nicolas stairs, off Gouraud Str, GemmayzehA British-style pub where you can chill, chat and enjoy a pint, while soft music plays in the background. Book a private party here and a have a bloody great English affair!
The Lancaster Hotel, behind Burger King, Australian Str (Extension of Al Hussein Str), Ras BeirutThis restaurant/bar was built inside an old Lebanese house with high ceilings, and decorated with sculptures and paintings. After the kitchen closes, the music kicks up a notch with a live jazz and blues band, DJs playing electro house on Fridays and Saturdays, and lounge music on Sundays.
55 Sursock Str, AchrafiehPhoenicia's newly-renovated pool area might be the sexiest chill out lounge in town, taking inspiration from vintage Beirut. Great cocktail menu.
Phoenicia InterContinental Hotel, Ain el MreisseA chic day at the pool has now turned into a night time affair at the new Aquarius Rooftop Pool bar. Their shisha and barbecue nights attract guests in swarms, making it the perfect summer hotspot.
Raouché Arjaan by Rotana, Corniche.Once upon a time this space was a derelict warehouse. Now it's an interactive art arena. Known for exhibiting work by up-and-coming visual artists, photographers and students, Art Lounge also has a bar, concert space and an art book store. This artsy venue also has a popular cineclub. Every Sunday night, it aims to introduce relatively unknown films to the public. Each month's selections are organised thematically, geographically or by director.
Quarantina River Bridge, near Forum de Beirut, QuarantinaOne of Batroun's most happening venues, Bank draws Lebanon's hottest Djs and live performances by local artists. The cavernous interior features exposed stone walls and traditional architecture with plush modern lounge chairs and the like, while the huge bar seats 50. Music is commercial dance rounded off with Oriental pop.
Batroun Main Street, BatrounRelax in this intimate and elegant setting offering a maximum of 36 seats and therefore assuring intimacy. A baby grand piano gives that extra touch to the bar, keeping you company while you sip a cocktail. Call for reservation.
Al Charkiah Road, BroumanaSelect martinis, great cocktails from classic to creative, light food, live music. Offering a magnificent circular view of the city and the surroundings.
Le Gray Hotel, Martyr's Sqr, DowntownA small, lively bar with a Spanish feel to it, Barometre is a great place to grab some delicious Lebanese mezze or just have a drink with some friends. Upbeat music and regularly changing artwork add charm and warmth to this fantastic Hamra bar.
Makhoul Str, parallel to Bliss Str, near intersection with Abdel Aziz Str, HamraA lavish lair hidden behind a heavy door, Behind the Green Door is drenched in deep-coloured velvet. Drink champagne out of a ceramic shoe and celebrate with Beirut’s VIPs and students. Reservations are a must.
Nahr Str (extension of Gouraud Str), Mar MikhaelRespond to the call of Beiruf's thumping music, which can be heard from afar, and dance away the night at this new kid on the block. Located in a building next to Beirut's port, this trendy rooftop bar provides late-night partiers with a stunning view of the sea and the breathtaking cityscape that is Beirut by night. Reservations are a must.
Beirut Harbour Str, below Charles Helou Ave, GemmayzehThis cosy Gemmayzeh pub has dim lighting and cool urban décor. Nights usually start off pretty quietly, but stop by a bit later when thumping, commercial deep-house music ensures some hot dancing. Plus, every Friday, Berlin hosts a guest DJ.
Saad Bldg, facing Convivium Appartment, GemmayzehKnown for its live entertainment of Jazz, Blues and Rock, the place is not super high-end, although the shows definitely are. The gastronomy is international, but nothing out of the ordinary. Try the Blue Note Steak platter, the Lebanese mezze or the apple pie for dessert.
Makhoul Str, opposite St Mary’s Church, Ras BeirutFamed Lebanese architect Bernard Khoury designed this internationally renowned, tomb-like club, which he infused with a morbid flavour, using coffins for seating. Make sure to stay late enough to see the retractable roof pull back, thrilling dancers as it unveils the sky at the break of dawn.
Charles Malek Ave, QuarantinaPart of the legendary Parisian franchise, this establishment boasts an Asian fusion restaurant and plays Buddha Bar chill out music from 9pm-12.30am (then switches to dance music). The huge Buddha statue never fails to impress.
1st floor, Asseily Bldg, Riad el Solh Sqr, Downtown