Food In Byblos Souks

Food History of Byblos Souks, Byblos Old Town, Lebanon

Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that stretches back more than 7,000 years. The local cuisine reflects a tapestry of cultural influences from the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and French among others, which have shaped its unique culinary landscape. Byblos Souks, nestled in the heart of the Old Town, offer a vibrant gastronomic adventure where traditional Lebanese foods fuse with the historic charm of the city.

The food in Byblos is deeply connected to the rich variety of ingredients provided by the Mediterranean climate. Seafood freshly caught from the nearby coast, an abundance of fruit and vegetable produce, and olive oil from local groves are staples of the diet. Grain cultivation and bread-making have been fundamental since ancient times, with various forms of flatbreads remaining popular. Spices and herbs, essential in Lebanese cuisine, also find their roots in the trade history of Byblos, as it was once a vital port for merchants.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Byblos Souks

1. Tabbouleh (Veg) - A refreshing parsley salad mixed with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing.
2. Hummus (Veg) - Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, typically served with pita bread.
3. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and fava beans, spiced with coriander and cumin.
4. Manakish (Veg) - Flatbread topped with za'atar spices, herbs, and olive oil, sometimes served with toppings like cheese or spinach.
5. Baba Ghannouj (Veg) - Roasted eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
6. Mujaddara (Veg) - Lentils and rice cooked together and topped with caramelized onions.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Veg/Non Veg) - Grape leaves wrapped around a filling of rice and herbs, sometimes including meat, but vegetarian versions are available.
8. Kibbeh (Non Veg) - A popular Lebanese dish made of bulgur and minced meat, seasoned with different herbs and spices.
9. Grilled Fish (Non Veg) - Fresh seafood from the Mediterranean grilled to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon.
10. Fatteh (Veg/Non Veg) - A layered dish made of toasted pita, chickpeas, yogurt, and pine nuts. Vegetarian versions exclude the meat.

Top Famous Restaurants in Byblos Souks, Byblos Old Town

Feniqia

Address: Opposite Byblos Castle, Old Souk, Byblos

Famous for its Mezze Platter (Veg/Non Veg) - A selection of various small dishes served as appetizers.

Kamareddine

Address: Ancient Souk, Byblos

Famous for its traditional Kebbe Balls (Non Veg) - Ground meat with bulgur, onions, and seasoned with aromatic spices.

Locanda - A la Granda

Address: Sea Road, Byblos

Famous for its Catch of the Day (Non Veg) - Grilled fresh fish caught from the local waters, seasoned with a mix of Mediterranean herbs.

Pepe Abed

Address: Byblos Port, Byblos

Famous for Falafel (Veg) - Considered to have one of the best falafel in Byblos, served with tahini sauce and fresh veggies.

Byblos Fishing Club

Address: Byblos Port, Byblos

Famous for its Seafood Mezze (Non Veg) - An assortment of small seafood dishes, perfect for sharing.

Each of these restaurants offer their own interpretation of traditional dishes, ensuring that visitors get the true taste of Byblos through their cuisine.