A Culinary Journey: Authentic Levantine Restaurants in Damascus

If you’re a fan of Levantine cuisine and crave an authentic culinary adventure, you’re in for a treat! The city is home to numerous restaurants serving traditional Levantine dishes, made with recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled meats, a variety of appetizers, or hearty classic dishes, these restaurants offer an experience like no other, complete with charming decor and a cozy atmosphere. Step into these spots and savor every bite, as each flavor tells a story rooted in Damascus’s rich heritage:

1. Ward Al-Sham Restaurant

Ward Al Sham Restaurant blends the rich heritage of Damascus with modern decor and a cozy atmosphere, offering a dining experience that’s both unique and inviting. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering Levantine dishes like meat sfiha, kebabs, shish tawook, stuffed vegetables, hummus, and falafel. They also serve Arabic shisha in an array of flavors, making it the perfect spot to enjoy both food and ambiance.

For reservations: +963 11 666 1166
Address: Damascus – Mezzeh Western Villas – Behind Al-Huda Mosque.

2. Kasr Alnarjes Restaurant

Nargis Palace serves a diverse selection of Middle Eastern dishes, featuring classics like hummus, falafel, and kibbeh in its various forms—grilled, fried, and raw. You’ll also find yalanji, stuffed vegetables, and different types of fattet on the menu. Beyond the delicious food, the restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Eastern ambiance, complete with live music and performances by Arab artists in both the indoor hall and outdoor courtyard, creating a lively and enjoyable dining experience.

For Reservations: +963 932 044 499

Address: Bab Touma – Al-Qaymaria – Damascus.

3. Al Shamiat Restaurant

This popular restaurant in Damascus is renowned for its authentic Levantine cuisine, featuring a variety of dishes such as kebabs, shish taouk, grilled and fried kibbeh, yalangi, various types of fattet, sfiha, and falafel. Alongside these savory options, it also offers a selection of Middle Eastern sweets and a range of hot and cold beverages, ensuring a complete and satisfying dining experience.

For reservations: +963 11 222 7270
Address: Damascus – Abu Rummaneh – Najmeh Square – People’s Council Street.

4. Set Alsham Restaurant

Set Al-Sham Restaurant stands out for its classic Eastern cuisine, offering dishes like kibbeh, shish barak, stuffed vegetables, and a variety of grilled meats. The restaurant provides a cozy setting, a relaxing ambiance, and top-notch service, making it an ideal spot for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

For reservations: +963 11 2713888
Address: Damascus – Abu Rummaneh – Behind Dama Rose Hotel (formerly Meridien).

5. Beit Jabri Beit Jabri

Beit Jabri Restaurant blends authenticity and coziness in a charming old Damascene home. The menu features a wide range of Levantine favorites, including grilled meats, manakish, hummus, falafel, various kinds of kibbeh, shish barak, and sfiha. Along with its delicious food, the restaurant offers Arabic shisha and backgammon tables for those who enjoy traditional games, making it a perfect spot to relax and experience Damascus’s rich culture.

For reservations: +963 11 544 3200
Address: Damascus – Behind Al-Azem Palace – Near Ambar Office.

6. Maraya Restaurant

Maraya Restaurant provides a cozy setting with a diverse menu, featuring shawarma, kebabs, different varieties of kibbeh, kofta, meat pies, stuffed vegetables, and fish dishes. It’s an ideal spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy a satisfying meal together.

For reservations: +963 11 444 8447
Address: Damascus – Al-Sabaa Bahrat – Pakistan Street.

7. Qasr Al Loulou Restaurant

The Pearl Palace Restaurant is famous for its grilled specialties, including kebabs and grilled chicken. Its menu features a delightful selection of manakeesh, pastries, grilled fish, and yalangi. With its modern decor and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for families to enjoy a meal together.

For reservations: +963 11 612 3535
Address: Damascus – Mazzeh Highway, across from the Justice Palace

If you’re looking to savor authentic Levantine dishes in a warm and inviting setting, these restaurants in Damascus promise an unforgettable experience.

See also: Our Top Picks for Cocktails and Ashati in Damascus