Food In Emir Bashir Shihab Ii S Private Wing

Food History of Emir Bashir Shihab II's Private Wing, Beiteddine Palace, Lebanon

The Emir Bashir Shihab II's Private Wing is part of the historic Beiteddine Palace in Lebanon which stands as a monumental example of 19th-century Lebanese architecture. The palace itself doesn't have a culinary history recorded as being distinctly separate from that of the region. However, being a place of affluence and power, the palace would have housed lavish banquets and feasts, showcasing the finest Lebanese culinary traditions. It would have included a variety of mezze (appetizers), dishes made with grains like bulgur and rice, plenty of fresh vegetables, and a wide assortment of sweet, syrupy pastries. Given the religious diversity in Lebanon, the palace would also have respected dietary laws pertaining to Islamic and Christian culinary customs during such banquets.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Beiteddine Palace for Tourists

1. Tabbouleh (Veg) - A refreshing parsley-based salad mixed with tomatoes, bulgur, mint, onion, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Hummus (Veg) - A smooth spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and/or fava beans served in a pita with salads and tahini sauce.
4. Mujaddara (Veg) - A lentil and rice dish garnished with caramelized onions, often enjoyed with a side of yogurt or salad.
5. Fattoush (Veg) - A mixed greens salad with radishes, cucumbers, and fried pieces of pita bread, dressed with a tangy sumac vinaigrette.
6. Manakish (Veg) - Flatbread often topped with za'atar, cheese, or minced vegetables, similar to a Middle Eastern-style pizza.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - Grape leaves wrapped around rice, pine nuts, and herbs, possibly containing meat.
8. Kibbeh (Non-Veg) - Lebanon’s national dish, made from a mix of minced lamb, bulgur wheat, and spices, often served raw, baked, or fried.
9. Shawarma (Non-Veg) - Thin slices of seasoned chicken, goat, or lamb, stacked and slow-roasted on a spit, then shaved off and wrapped in pita bread with veggies.
10. Baklava (Veg) - A sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Beiteddine Palace

As the private wing itself is within a historic palace which is a heritage site, it does not host restaurants. However, nearby in the Chouf district, one can find excellent dining establishments where visitors can enjoy traditional Lebanese cuisine.

Mir Amin Palace Hotel Restaurant

Beiteddine, Mount Lebanon Governorate, Lebanon
Famous Food: Mixed Lebanese mezze (Veg & Non-Veg options available)

Diwan Al Beik

Lebanon, Beiteddine near the Palace
Famous Food: Traditional Lebanese cuisine (Veg & Non-Veg options available)

Al Ferdous Restaurant

Beiteddine, Main Street, Lebanon
Famous Food: Kibbeh and Stuffed Grape Leaves (Veg & Non-Veg options available)

For an exhaustive culinary experience, you may consider traveling to nearby villages or to the capital city of Beirut, which is known for its rich culinary scene, offering an array of traditional and modern Lebanese eateries.