Best Cocktails in Beirut

Beirut, the cosmopolitan heart of Lebanon, is a city celebrated for its dynamic culinary and nightlife scenes. Among its many offerings, the city’s cocktail culture stands out, blending local flavors with international trends. Here’s a guide to the best cocktails to try in Beirut, each offering a unique taste of the city’s vibrant spirit.

1. Cedar Sour

Inspired by Lebanon’s iconic cedar trees, the Cedar Sour is a modern twist on the classic whiskey sour. Featuring Lebanese whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of cedar-infused syrup, this cocktail is a fragrant and sophisticated choice. Many high-end bars like The Roof at Four Seasons Beirut serve this unique creation.

2. Arak Mojito

A Lebanese twist on the traditional mojito, the Arak Mojito combines the anise-flavored spirit with fresh mint, lime, and soda. This refreshing drink is perfect for summer evenings and can be enjoyed at bars like Anise in Mar Mikhael.

3. Beirut Mule

A nod to the classic Moscow Mule, the Beirut Mule adds a local flair with a splash of pomegranate juice and Lebanese gin. Served in a copper mug, this cocktail offers a tangy and refreshing taste. It’s a popular choice at trendy spots like Internazionale.

4. Lavender Collins

The Lavender Collins combines gin, lavender syrup, fresh lemon juice, and soda water for a floral and zesty drink. This elegant cocktail is a staple at upscale bars like Iris Beirut, known for their innovative concoctions.

5. Mediterranean Martini

The Mediterranean Martini brings the flavors of the region to life with a blend of vodka, olive brine, and a hint of za’atar. Garnished with a pickled olive, this savory cocktail is a must-try at sophisticated venues like Central Station Boutique Bar.

6. Pomegranate Old Fashioned

This creative take on the classic Old Fashioned incorporates pomegranate syrup and a splash of Lebanese bitters. The result is a rich and fruity drink that captures the essence of Beirut’s vibrant nightlife. Try it at bars like Ferdinand in Hamra.\

7. Jallab Spritz

Inspired by the traditional Lebanese drink jallab, this cocktail combines the sweet flavors of dates and rose water with sparkling wine. It’s a light and bubbly choice, perfect for sipping at elegant spots like Capitole Beirut.\

8. Rosemary Gin Fizz

A fragrant blend of gin, rosemary-infused syrup, lemon juice, and soda water, the Rosemary Gin Fizz is a refreshing and aromatic cocktail. It’s a standout at bars like Dragonfly, where mixologists craft drinks with precision and creativity.

9. Fig Negroni

The Fig Negroni takes the classic Italian cocktail and adds a Lebanese twist with fig-infused Campari. This rich and complex drink is ideal for those seeking bold flavors. It’s a specialty at The Bohemian in Mar Mikhael.

Beirut’s cocktail scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the cedar-infused elegance of the Cedar Sour to the Mediterranean flair of the Arak Mojito, each drink offers a unique perspective on the city’s culture. Explore Beirut’s bars and rooftop lounges to discover these creative concoctions and