Authentic Lebanese Meal in Beirut in Tania's Family Home

Beirut , Lebanon

Authentic Lebanese Meal in Beirut in Tania's Family Home

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(15 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Join your host Tania for an authentic Lebanese meal in her welcoming home, and experience the country's culture and cuisine through a local's eyes. Tania lives in a traditional, modest home with an old world charm. She has immense knowledge about Lebanese food and ingredients and is more than happy to share it with you!

After you chat with Tania and her family, your meal will be served in the dining room, which has a lovely vibe thanks to Tania’s piano! A few Lebanese dishes that you may try are stuffed vine leaves, fasolia w riz (beans with rice), mujaddara (lentils) and Lebanese meat balls in tahini sauce or yogurt. You will end your meal with Lebanese coffee, a selection of homemade jams and fresh fruits from the family garden.

Please note that on days Tania is traveling, her mother and brothers, who are equally passionate about food will host you.

Available options

Dinner

Dinner with your host Tania

Lunch

Lunch with your host Tania

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Alcoholic Beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages

Local alcohol (1-2 glasses)

Lunch

Dinner

Gratuities

Private 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

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 Beirut. 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

Local contact information: If you need assistance, please contact your host Tania at +961 3791585 , or by email at tania_abielhessen@hotmail.com

Address: 5th floor, makarem building, furn el chebbak, sammout street

Meeting Instructions: Please meet your host Tania at her home. Here is a Google maps link to their location: 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