Foul House

The day Foul House opened was a day to remember, mostly for the delectable free food but also for the fact that a late hour fowal had finally made it to Hamra. Located somewhere between Malak al-Foul (to its right) and Abu Abdallah (to the left) on the same stretch of road, Foul House’s distinguishing feature is that it is open until midnight. Honestly, it is difficult to deliberate which fowal is the best as each has its characteristic charm, distinct atmosphere and special dish (more like dishes). But if you are craving them beans post lunch (i.e. after 4PM) then Foul House is where it’s at.

The family run restaurant is meticulous and the service is friendly and fast. The proud owner will spend the good part of your visit helping you decide what dishes to order (mind you he warns the women against the heavy house specials) while taking jabs at his younger absentminded son’s unfortunate inability to remember the items on the menu. He will also then apologise for joking too much (even though his jovial spirit makes the food taste even better) and then implore you not to tip because the place is his.

Dishes that are a must to try are the Foul Al-Halabi, Fatetet Tahini, and the MOUTABAL BATENJAN. I repeat the MOUTABAL BATENJAN is easily the best in all of Hamra -- which is a big, huge, all capital letter statement to make. Though a tad more pricey than its counterparts (i.e. maybe 1,000L.L. more), the extra is well worth it for the portions are generous as is the sahn khudra (vegetable and pickle platter) that accompanies every order. Breakfast, lunch, snack, or dinner, you’re sure to have a hearty, (generally) healthy meal (beans, beans, they’re good for your heart).

Too lazy to mosey on over? Foul House also delivers in the Hamra area.