Crave
Sarah Tarhini

Makdous Pasta? This Beirut Bistro is Redefining Lebanese Mouneh!

If you haven’t tried Olea & Fig in Beirut yet, prepare yourself for a truly different kind of experience. Nestled in the heart of Monot, this spot takes traditional Lebanese mouneh and reimagines it into modern creations, mixing it with Mediterranean and global influences in a way that feels both authentic and inventive.

One of the star dishes everyone’s talking about: Makdous Linguine. Think of your favorite Italian pasta, now dressed up with a homemade Lebanese twist. Makdous, usually spotted next to mjadra or labneh, steps into the spotlight as the hero of a pasta creation. Combined with cherry tomatoes, zaatar, and a silky labneh foam, the result is a dish that perfectly balances comfort and creativity.

And the innovation doesn’t stop there. The menu is packed with clever fusions:

Endives Keshek with pears, walnuts, and microgreens in a creamy keshek dressing.

Zaatar & Keshek Fries, the ultimate Lebanese spin on comfort food.

Apple Porc, with bacon, shallots, and apples in a mustard cider sauce.

Steak Café de Beyrouth, buttered and spiced with lemon zest, garlic, and pickled za’atar.

And yes, even a Goat Arayes Salad with pistachio za’atar and sharab el tout vinaigrette.

If cocktails are your thing, their signature creations infused with fig, za’atar and local herbs reflect the same playful yet rooted spirit. And to end on a sweet note, the Oriental Pain Perdu with mastic and pistachio milk is an absolute must.

The vibe at Olea & Fig is warm yet chic, whether you’re stopping by for lunch with friends or a romantic dinner. It’s the go-to address if you want to see how Lebanese mouneh can be reinvented!

📍 Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 12 PM to midnight.
📞 For reservations, call: +961 81 112 030.

MORE LIKE THIS

Only in Lebanon…Kibbeh Nayyeh Ice Cream!

Only in Lebanon…Kibbeh Nayyeh Ice Cream!

Fresh kibbeh nayyeh made with finely ground meat and spices, but with a twist!