An al-fresco lunch amidst a typical bedouin village in Bekaa: welcome to Al Khan al Makssoud.
Located within the Taanayel eco-lodge, which was built as a typical Bekaa village of mud brick houses around a central green courtyard, the newly opened restaurant is a breath of fresh air and a sure bet if you’re looking to escape the city crowds and noise. In the Arab world, Khan – or caravansary - was a place of welcome and rest for travelers. It was designed to accommodate strangers who were tired due to their journey, and to set up their goods in shops and their horses in the stables. In deciding to build a khan, Arc-en-ciel, an eco-friendly Lebanese association committed to preserving cultural heritage and sustainable development, aimed to reflect the hospitable traditions of the Middle East. And they sure did. The restaurant, open daily, serves four different “formulas”, all centered around traditional Lebanese fare. During weekends, they cater to all sorts of events for groups of at least 15 people with customized buffet live stations and other services. Every Saturday evening the Khan offers a traditional evening led by a Lebanese singer, as well as a “oud” musician every Sunday for lunch. This is one of those rare places where you can sit back, relax and forget you live in the 21st century.
Cuisine
Lebanese
Food
Restaurants
Other
Casual Dining
Great Views
Outdoor
Shisha
Who goes?
Everyone
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User reviews
PtitNFit on 21 Mar 2016
As i love to celebrate any event in a new place with spirit, i decided to try Al khan Al Makssoud, a hidden gem in Taanayel inside Arc en Ciel... View full review
As i love to celebrate any event in a new place with spirit, i decided to try Al khan Al Makssoud, a hidden gem in Taanayel inside Arc en Ciel Bldgs and Taanayel Eco Lodge.
A very nice concept, welcoming villagy feeling.
We were greeted by the waiter and seated, the place is going under expansion work so there is some messiness but overall nice.
We ordered fatush (generous portion) with special toasted bread instead of fried!
Mtabal eggplant: fair, Batata harra (fresh coriander and balanced taste). Grilled cheese rolls, and a mixed grilled platter (kabab, meat and taouk). We also had the tastiest Kishk saj manoushe ever, really yummy. As we are not big eaters, we asked for the leftovers take away, too bad they didn't put them all (they left out the meat skewers and some of the manoushe and i didn't understand the reason?!)
Overall the food is ok, but the most enjoyable was the entourage. We did a tour in the ecolodge, it is a very beautiful concept. I would definitely come back.