Orient 499

Top choice in Beirut


Entranced by Middle Eastern design, Frank Luca and Aida Kawas decided to establish this atelier and boutique, where they design and make some objects (including Aida Kawas' wonderful clothing) and also sell products and artefacts sourced from other countries in the region. Expensive but exquisite homewares, handmade soaps, ceramics, metalwork, toys and furniture are on offer.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Beirut attractions

1. Dar El Nimer

0.21 MILES

Housed in a gorgeous 1930s villa, Dar El Nimer features rotating art exhibits and an impressive permanent collection including decorative arts, glass,…

2. Robert Mouawad Private Museum

0.36 MILES

The world would be a poorer place if it didn't host idiosyncratic cultural institutions such as this one. Conceived and funded by jeweller and collector…

3. Banque du Liban Museum

0.37 MILES

Banque du Liban Museum is an offbeat little stop for a change of pace. The collection includes coins dating back to 500 BC; some of the retired Lebanese…

4. Grand Serail

0.43 MILES

The Grand Serail, a majestic Ottoman-era building that has been restored to its former grandeur and is now the Prime Minister's base, is a splendid…

5. Sanayeh Public Garden

0.44 MILES

A very well-maintained public park with soothing greenery and water, this has playground equipment for the kids to let off steam, and plenty of paved…

6. Roman Baths

0.5 MILES

The largest outdoor sight in downtown Beirut hearkening back to the days when the city was a centre of Roman law, the baths here underwent a major…

7. Planet Discovery

0.59 MILES

This activity centre and interactive science museum in the Souks shopping arcades is aimed at young children and offers a science museum that's very hands…