Shoppy

A stone-throw from busy Bechara al Khoury, which divides the neighbourhood of Aamlieh near Barbir, is Shoppy, a stylish catering service with a tables to sit down in its recently renovated premises. The family business has been providing traditional food for 23 years and it boasts a brand new space, with black and white tiles and a classy interior decoration.

It’s not surprising that Shoppy has its regulars – the “Oriental Homemade Cuisine” does indeed taste like home and prices are competitive. Besides the plat du jour, patrons can choose from a number of kibbeh as well as some chicken dish and grilled meat.

There furthermore are soups served daily, and the staples of Lebanese cuisine: mezze such as moutabbal or hummus, okra and bean dishes, foul, moujadara, hindbeh, fish dishes and wine leaves as well as zucchini and pastries.

The pasta options include classical Italian pasta as well as a vegetarian dish.

Everything on offer is displayed behind a large counter, making it easy – or difficult given the great choice – to select a main or rather opt for mezzes with soup and salad and maybe also one of the great deserts. The “mfatta2a”, made with tahini and turmeric and sprinkled with pine nuts, takes hours to make and is simply delicious.

If you can’t access Shoppy or don’t want to brave crossing Bechara al Khoury or finding parking, there is the option of calling for a delivery, free of charge and also stocking up on items from the freezer.