Apres Ski: The Best Bites To Warm You Up in Lebanon
Lebanese skiers are surely rejoicing, as this year’s steady and continuous rainfall has blanketed the mountains in glistening white snow. A day on the slopes is considerably energy-expending, and there’s no denying how deep-seated your hunger can be as you slough off your gear.
Where to fill your tummy in the Kfardebian and Faraya areas après le ski? There are plenty of heartwarming options, so get comfy next to that fireplace and let your appetite come alive.
Mention fondue, chimney, and a cabin-like setting, and you’ll immediately conjure up Le Montagnou in Kfardebian. Affording guests a first-class seat of the falling snow outside, the restaurant dishes up classic comfort food like French onion soup, Margherita pizza, “pierrade”—essentially a stone slab where you can cook your own meat at the table, and the essential fondue savoyarde for two. Quite honestly, the trifecta of ambiance, warmth, and stunning views suffice to make Le Montagnou worthy of your time and money. The delicious grub is an added bonus.
Le Montagnou Ayoun al Semane Faraya Tel.: +9619341441 Mob.: +96170341441 Mob.: +9613341441
Urban is a restaurant-bar brought to Faqra by the same folks behind White, Iris, and MAD. Built on rocky terrain and adequately distant from the chaos of the city, Urban is the ideal rest-house to unwind in after a tiring day of skiing. Sip on a glass of rouge as you tuck into a hearty warm meal—I recommend the fettuccini aux cèpes garnished with rosemary as well as the cheese fondue with a selection of premium sausages. If you find yourself smug in the coziness at Urban, stay the night in one of its eight guest rooms.
Massaya has forged a name for itself in fine wines and wine-making. Named for the delicate beauty of the twilight of Bekaa where its flagship winery is situated, Massaya recently opened a venue in Faqra that’s equipped with a tasting room, a fireplace restaurant, and an open-air site fashioned as a Roman amphitheater ideal for summertime BBQs and weddings. The restaurant serves mouthwatering French countryside stews like lapin à la moutarde (rabbit in mustard sauce), boeuf bourgignon, and poulet au whiskey. If you’re staying the weekend, elect for a lavish Sunday brunch replete with edibles and wine à go-go.
Massaya Faqra Faraya Mount Lebanon Tel.: +96170122414
If you’re in the mood for something swanky and refined, Terre Brune located near the Roman ruins of Faqra hits the mark. The hotel was constructed of stone, donning it an alpine look and making for the perfect romantic setting for ski enthusiasts and couples alike. Choose to dine at Les Caves, where an exquisite selection of cheeses and wines awaits you in the company of a hearth. Those craving Lebanese cuisine will be happy to discover Chez Michel, where homemade dishes, grills, and classic mezza are served in the traditional format.
Sometimes, all you need is a good old saj (or two) to fill the belly and elevate your spirits. Head to Em Bashir’s, on your left as you descend past Jalset el 3erzel, where you can indulge in a thin markouk painted with zaatar and olive oil paste and heated to a crisp on a convex oven. There’s also Abou Artine in Faraya Square (at the roundabout), who crafts a unique saj turnover stuffed with homemade soujouk. The Jebneh 7arra blends slightly sweet cheese with slightly piquant red pepper paste for an incredible marriage of flavors.
Em Bashir Her small stand is located just to the right of the entrance of Faraya Before you reach Al Erzal. Tel.: +96109321117