Marinella

Typifying Mar Mikhael's urban chic character, Marinella is a stylish and contemporary Trattoria, located on a street corner flanked by car-repair shops and flamboyant street art. A leafy terrace and an intimate interior make Marinella a lovely lunchtime destination. True to authentic Italian form, the menu is simply displayed on large chalkboards with some seasonal items and others changing at the Chef’s whim.

In the best sense of the word. It’s a refreshing change from some of the perennial menus out-there that turn a dining experience into a robotic manoeuver akin to brushing one’s teeth. Call us crazy but we like to be surprised!

Try the Gnocchi Al Limone or the Linguine Al Funghi. If you’re hungry,  go for the hearty Osso Bocco or the Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Whatever you do, leave room for dessert. We would be remiss if we didn’t suggest the chocolate mousse- should you be lucky enough to find it on the menu. Expect to rub elbows with the trendy Beiruti crowd and/or the self-proclaimed Italian gourmet diners. Whether or not they may need a serious dose of introspection is beside the point. The point is if you’re a fan of good Italian food, park at Marinella. Or don’t. Valet parking is available.