Bon Appetit

Al-Ajami
In the opulent dining room, the Lebanese dishes run the gamut from mezze to meats, and sweets are a house specialty. Rafik Hariri Avenue, Ramlet Al-Baida, +961 1 802 260, www.alajamirestaurant.com

Centrale
A traditional house encased in wire mesh (!) serving a fine menu of international cuisine. Sharia Mar Maroun, Gemayze, +961 1 575 858, www.centrale.restaurant.com

Suitcase Fillers

Le Balcon des Créateurs
On the top floor of a grand old Gemayze house are 30 collections, from lingerie by Lala Rose to sandals by Eska. Sharia Gouraud, Gemayze, +961 1 565 636

Orient 499
Sleek modern furniture integrates Damascene mother-of-pearl inlay. Also antiques. Sharia Omar Daouk, Kantari, +961 1 369 499, www.orient499.com

At Your Leisure

Eddé Sands Beach Resort
Has a French Riviera vibe. Visit Eddé Yard restaurant with exhibitions of local art. Byblos, + 961 9 546 666, www.eddesands.com

Eye Candy

Caramel, a movie set in a Beirut beauty parlour, has become a surprise hit in North America and Europe. Nadine Labaki’s film has received almost universally positive press coverage and is expected to compete for awards later this year.