Authentic Lebanese Cooking Lesson and Meal with Tania's Family in Beirut
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join your local host Tania (or her mother and brothers on days Tania is traveling) in their small kitchen for a private hands-on cooking class with welcoming locals. You will learn to make five of the authentic Lebanese dishes that you will be eating together later, such as traditional Lebanese mezza or mloukhieh (vegetable), kibbeh labniyeh (meat balls in yogurt soup) and dessert.
Tania lives in a traditional, modest home with true old world charm. She has immense knowledge about Lebanese food and ingredients and will be more than happy to share it with you! You'll have the chance to chat with her family and learn all you've ever wanted to know about Lebanese culture, cuisine and traditions - Tania's father will even explain to you how he makes his own arak (the Lebanese national alcoholic drink made from grapes and anise seeds).
Your traditional meal will end with Lebanese coffee, a selection of homemade jams and fresh fruits from the family garden - come visit and enjoy!
Available options
Cooking and dinner
Cooking class and dinner with Tania in Beirut
Cooking and lunch
Garden tour + cooking + lunch
Garden and supermarket tour: Tour of Tania's fruit and vegetable garden and a local supermarket to understand the ingredients used in Lebanese cuisine.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: The entire experience including the garden tour, supermarket tour, cooking class and meal lasts about 5 hours.
Garden tour + cooking + dinner
Garden and supermarket tour: Tour of Tania's fruit and vegetable garden and a local supermarket to understand the ingredients used in Lebanese cuisine.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: The entire experience including the garden tour, supermarket tour, cooking class and meal lasts about 5 hours.
What's included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic beverages
Local alcohol (1-2 glasses)
Gratuities
Private cooking lesson and homecooked meal with your host Tania
What you'll see
Your host Tania is an agronomist and food safety specialist, who sings, plays the piano and enjoys traveling. Tania's father is a former butcher and is very serious about his meats! He is retired and grows fruits and vegetables in his garden in the outskirts of Beirut. Tania’s mother is a home chef who has been cooking traditional meals for the family all her life using family recipes. Most of the produce for the home comes from the garden and is local, fresh and organic! Her parents will be part of the experience and will help with the cooking and hosting.
Don't miss out on this wonderful chance to get to know Beirut through a welcoming family who enjoys gardening, talking about food, cooking and eating together!
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
57 reviews
5★
56
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Note that infant seats are available upon request - please let your host know in advance if you need an infant seat
If any travelers in your party have any allergies, dietary restrictions or cooking preferences please advise at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Private, personalized experience
Meeting point
Please meet Tania at her home in Furn el chebbak neighborhood of Lebanon. Please check the 'Before you go' section on your voucher for the exact address, the above only offers neighbourhood details, and not the exact address. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation.
Important notes
For assistance, contact Tania at +961 3791585 or tania_abielhessen@hotmail.com
Address: 5th floor, Makarem building, Furn el chebbak, Sammout street, Beirut
Please meet your host Tania at her home. Here is a Google maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/E2gCkxEKN232
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!
About Beirut
Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Known as the 'Paris of the Middle East,' it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, modern luxury, and bustling street life.
Top Attractions
Beirut Central District
The heart of Beirut, this district is a blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.
Historical/Architecture
Half day to full day
Free to moderate
National Museum of Beirut
One of the most important archaeological museums in the Middle East, showcasing artifacts from various periods of Lebanese history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $5-$10)
Raouche Rock
A stunning natural limestone rock formation rising from the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photos.
Nature/Scenic
1-2 hours
Free (unless dining at the restaurant)
Byblos
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.
Historical/Cultural
Half day to full day
Moderate (entry fees for some sites)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hummus
A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Tabbouleh
A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Kibbeh
A dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with bulgur and spices, often fried or baked.
Appetizer
Contains meat
Kafta
Ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and herbs, often grilled or fried.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Mediterranean
Beach lounging at Raouche or Dbayeh
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Swimming and water sports
Boat tours along the coast
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is in full bloom during these seasons.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Rafic Hariri International Airport • 9 km (5.6 miles) from city center
By bus
Charles Helou Bus Station, Dawra Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gemmayzeh
Hamra
Achrafieh
Day trips
Byblos
40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.
Jeita Grotto
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A stunning natural limestone cave system with a breathtaking underground river and waterfalls, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Harissa
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A picturesque hilltop town offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Our Lady of Lebanon shrine, a popular pilgrimage site.
Festivals
Beirut International Film Festival • October to November
Beirut Jazz Festival • July
Eid al-Fitr • Varies by lunar calendar (usually April to June)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Visit the Beirut Central District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try local street food like falafel, shawarma, and manakish for an authentic and affordable dining experience
- Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt for a more convenient and reliable taxi experience
- Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Hamra, where you'll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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