24 Hours in Beirut with Rami Abi Rafeh

After having graduated from the Lebanese American University, Rami Abi Rafeh took over the family business of Loft 21 – Hamra’s latest sensation. In addition to managing most affairs of this resto-pub, Abi Rafeh spins music along with his friend, Ramzi Helou.
When he isn’t spinning music, hunting for bands or thinking of new concepts to introduce to Loft 21, this is where he’s at:

Café Younes

“Whenever I need some time alone to plan, Cafe Younes is on top of my list,” Abi Rafeh says about the popular coffee spot for the Hamra crowd.

“I usually order a double shot skimmed latte in a mug or a skimmed specialty iced coffee, and a feta olive bagel with mint leaves.”

Lazy B
With summer officially creeping its way into the city, finding quality beaches that aren’t too far is no simple task. Abi Rafeh advises Beiruti’s to head over to his favorite beach – Lazy B in Jiyeh.
“This beach resort tops everything you expect to find in a resort – especially when it comes to their service, cleanliness, and its quiet and peaceful setting.”

Abdel Wahab

For authentic Lebanese food, Rami goes to Abdel Wahab – the restaurant famous for its cozy ambience, incredible food and spectacular kibbeh with cherries.
Rami reaffirms this by adding, “Abdelwahab has the best Lebanese food in town – [it is the place] where my family and I celebrate my birthday every year. It’s our yearly ritual.”

E-Cafe Jbeil

“Not only do they offer the best BBQ grilled steaks in town, but they also have a vast Italian menu and they are perfectly situated in the heart of Jbeil’s Old Souks.”
Indeed, this café is situated in the perfect location and offers great food and service. It is an ideal lunch location for summer nights with friends.

The Roof – Four Seasons Hotel Beirut

“No rooftop in Beirut can beat this one for sunset drinks.”

LOFT 21

And for the grand finale, Rami picks Loft 21 as his number one favorite place to spend his nights at in Beirut. In addition to its undeniable air of comfort, the diversity of musicians and events always keep him busy and moving. Indeed, Loft 21 is a unique venue with a “regular line up of the best bands and comedians in town with a unique “No Band Cover and No Minimum Charge” policy.”
Amen to that.

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