Guides
Meera Shamma

14 Pretty Places Where You Can Get Some Peace And Quiet In Beirut

In this chaotic city it’s often hard to imagine that there are quiet little venues that aren’t your own home where you can go to relax and unwind. If you’re looking to get out of the house but want to go somewhere that is serene and relaxed, here are some places you can go.


BEYt‘s outdoor terrace above Plan Bey in Mar Mikhael


You might think that the words ‘quiet’ and ‘Mar Mikhael’ can never go hand in hand, but you’re wrong. Here you can enjoy a cup of coffee, a piece of cake, and some serenity in a secret garden nestled above one of Beirut’s most bustling streets.


Blue House Tea Garden in Mar Mikhael


Who knew Mar Mikhael had so many secret gardens? This tea garden is the only one of its kind in Beirut, dedicated to serving you soothing teas in an equally soothing outdoor garden setting.


Mitsu-Ya in Gemmayze


Want to treat yourself to some delicious sushi without having to compromise on your yearning for some peace and quiet? Mitsu-Ya is the place for you. Located in the center of Gemmayze, this place is so quiet you might be inclined to whisper to your date instead of having to speak over the usual Beirut crowds. Their sushi is world-class, and the setting is authentic and peaceful.


Dar Bistro & Books in Hamra


A popular spot for reading and studying, Dar Bistro is not only a quaint cafe, but a delicious restaurant as well.


De Prague in Hamra (by day)


This Hamra restaurant/bar turns their music up at around 8 PM, but before that, it’s the perfect place for peace, quiet, and a cup of coffee in the heart of one of Beirut’s most chaotic neighborhoods.


Urbanista in Gemmayze


Despite it being a very popular spot for cafe-dwellers, Urbanista’s Gemmayze branch is surprisingly quiet throughout the day. If you can’t make it to Gemmayze, though, their upstairs seating area in the Hamra branch is quiet and relaxed too.


The rooftop at Kalei Coffee Co. in Mar Mikhael


Kalei is a favorite spot for book-readers, coffee-lovers, and those who are looking to take their dogs out to a pet-friendly cafe. Despite the fact that it’s outdoor seating area is usually full on the weekends, it’s usually less packed during the week and it’s quiet enough to get some tranquility. On top of that (literally), they have a peaceful rooftop seating area where you can get some work done, and it’s never too full for some peace of mind.


Appetito Trattoria in Hamra


You’ll feel like you’re in an old Italian town the minute you step foot in to Appetito’s Hamra branch – where it’s quiet and peaceful and authentically decorated. The food is delicious and the staff are friendly, making this Italian spot in Hamra one of our favorites for some peace of mind and soul food.


Villa Badaro in Badaro (by day)


A beautiful outdoor terrace in Badaro, Villa Badaro serves delectable food and delicious drinks. By day this venue is usually quiet and peaceful, and it’s an ideal place to go if you want to leave the house but feel like you didn’t really leave the house.


Bread Republic in Hamra (by day)


If you can manage to drown out the noise of Hamra’s traffic, this Hamra gem is a pleasant place to go for a quiet meal, coffee, wine, or homemade pastry.


Bagatelle in Hamra


Bagatelle is a Mediterranean/European bistro set inside a renovated 1928 house in Hamra, serving a variety of recipes from the south of France, Italy, Spain and Greece. The terrace is pretty and endearing, and will perfectly compliment your craving for a peaceful afternoon.


Eat Sunshine in Monot


True to their name, this culinary gem is also a perfectly pleasant place to get a good meal and some tranquility.


Breakfast Barn in Achrafieh


A quiet place to start your mornings, Breakfast Barn is small enough to ensure that you won’t be sharing the space with too many people. Their breakfast options are healthy and hearty, and you’ll be sure to have a good day after a soothing breakfast at this spot.


L’appartement in Achrafieh


This restaurant and bar is set in an old Achrafieh apartment, meaning you’ll literally feel right at home when you visit. The staff is friendly but will also be sure to give you your privacy, and you can get your fix of calm while sipping on your favorite drink at this delightful spot.