Beirut

Mezze, grills and stews from the heart of Lebanon in the heart of student Edinburgh.

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A charcoal-scented haze hovers promisingly over Beirut’s dining room, where carved wooden panels are suspended over close-quartered tables, lit by traditional coloured-glass lanterns. Its Southside location and BYOB policy make Beirut an unsurprising favourite with students. A broader demographic is attracted by a wide-ranging menu with prices to match, and an unexpected delight of a wine list featuring memorable vintages. Feeling indecisive? Head straight for the banquet-style set menu for two or four. Alternatively, start small with thick, oil-slicked dips such as smoky baba ganoush or citrusy hummus to ensure you leave room for what follows – although baskets of complimentary Lebanese flat bread may put paid to that plan. Mixed kebabs with tender chicken, minced and marinated lamb, are caramelised where meat meets charcoal, while hearty chunks of aubergine and potato come unencumbered by cheese in Lebanese-style vegetarian moussaka. Digestion permitting, rose-water infused rice pudding is a game changer for those still scarred by thick-skinned school-dinner versions of the dessert.