Best Italian Restaurants in Beirut

Best Italian Restaurants in Beirut

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Beirut has quietly become one of the Middle East's most exciting destinations for Italian cuisine, where generations-old recipes meet the Lebanese appreciation for fresh ingredients and generous hospitality. The city's Italian restaurants go beyond the typical red-sauce standards, offering everything from handmade pasta that would make a nonna proud to wood-fired pizzas with perfectly charred crusts. What sets the scene apart is how these establishments have woven themselves into Beirut's fabric, becoming neighborhood favorites where the wine flows freely and the atmosphere feels equally suited for a romantic date or a boisterous family gathering.

This guide brings together eight exceptional Italian restaurants, each rated 4.5 stars or higher by diners who know their carbonara from their cacio e pepe. These aren't just places serving Italian food, they're destinations where chefs obsess over importing the right Parmigiano-Reggiano and getting their risotto to that perfect creamy consistency. Whether you're craving an intimate trattoria experience or a lively dinner spot with an extensive wine cellar, you'll find your match here. From the consistently beloved Mamma In Cucina to good spots like Gia La Cucina d'Amore, these restaurants prove that Beirut's Italian dining scene deserves serious attention.

Featured Restaurants

Mamma In Cucina
$$

Mamma In Cucina

★★★★☆
4.8
(1,686 reviews)

This beloved Gemmayze neighborhood gem has earned its stellar reputation with over 1,600 glowing reviews, drawing both locals and visitors with its warm, homestyle atmosphere and diverse menu options. Travelers consistently praise the authentic flavors and welcoming vibe that makes you feel like you're dining in a Lebanese home kitchen. Arrive early or make a reservation, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends when the cozy space buzzes with energy.

Gouraud, Bayrut, Lebanon
81 400 530
Appetito Trattoria Zaitunay
$$

Appetito Trattoria Zaitunay

★★★★☆
4.8
(513 reviews)

located along the scenic Zaitunay Bay waterfront, Appetito Trattoria offers a delightful dining experience that has won over more than 500 diners with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options. The impressive 4.8-star rating speaks to consistently excellent service and quality dishes that keep both locals and travelers coming back for more. Snag a table during sunset hours to enjoy your meal with impressive bay views, and don't hesitate to ask the staff for their recommendations since the varied menu has something for every palate.

Zaitunay Bay, Bayrut, Lebanon
03 140 184
The Wooden Cellar
$$

The Wooden Cellar

★★★★☆
4.7
(350 reviews)

The Wooden Cellar in Pharoun has earned its impressive 4.7-star rating from over 350 diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to various tastes. This moderately priced spot has become a reliable favorite among both locals and visitors, consistently delivering quality food and service that keeps guests coming back. Arrive early during weekends to snag a good table, as its popularity means it can fill up quickly during peak dining hours.

Pharoun, Bayrut, Lebanon
76 808 392
Eataly Lebanon
$$

Eataly Lebanon

★★★★☆
4.6
(335 reviews)

This bustling multi-cuisine marketplace in Downtown Beirut brings together diverse food offerings under one roof, making it a favorite among locals and travelers alike who've awarded it an impressive 4.6-star rating. With hundreds of enthusiastic reviews, visitors consistently praise the quality, variety, and busy atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a culinary adventure. Arrive with an appetite and time to explore the different food stations, as the hardest part will be choosing from all the tempting options at moderate prices.

Downtown, Bayrut 0000, Lebanon
Riccello
$$

Riccello

★★★★☆
4.7
(229 reviews)

located in the charming Saifi district, Riccello has earned its stellar reputation with over 200 glowing reviews, drawing locals and travelers alike to its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings. The impressive 4.7-star rating speaks to consistently excellent food and service that keeps guests coming back, whether for a casual lunch or special dinner. With its mid-range pricing and prime location in one of Beirut's most walkable neighborhoods, it's perfect for exploring the area's galleries and boutiques before settling in for a memorable meal.

Charles Debbas, Saifi 0000, Lebanon
Pertutti
$$

Pertutti

★★★★☆
4.7
(207 reviews)

Pertutti in Baabda has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over 200 diners thanks to its diverse menu that offers something for every palate, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving local flavors or international fare. The mid-range pricing and consistently high marks suggest you'll get excellent value without breaking the bank, which travelers particularly appreciate. Given its popularity, consider making a reservation during peak dinner hours to secure your spot at this neighborhood favorite.

Martakla, Baabda, Lebanon
Luigi Cucina Italiana
$$

Luigi Cucina Italiana

★★★★☆
4.5
(155 reviews)

Luigi Cucina Italiana has earned its stellar 4.5-star reputation among locals and travelers alike, offering a welcoming atmosphere where quality Italian fare takes center stage in the heart of Beirut. With over 150 enthusiastic reviews, diners consistently praise the restaurant's authentic preparations and warm service that make it a reliable choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The mid-range pricing makes it accessible without sacrificing quality, though arriving early on weekends is recommended given its popularity.

VGR7+VXF, Beirut, Lebanon
01 218 622

Culinary Experiences in Beirut

Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences