Fairouz Gerusalemme

Although Milan has been home to several Lebanese restaurants for years, for many of us this cuisine still boils down to dips and falafel. In reality, Lebanon has a rich and fascinating culinary tradition that has influenced, and been influenced by, the neighbouring regions. If you want to explore the country’s vast culinary heritage, which proves ideal for vegetarians and vegans thanks to countless regional recipes based on vegetables and pulses, book a table at Fairouz. One of the most popular Lebanese restaurants in town, it has recently opened its third branch in Piazza Gerusalemme, a short walk from Corso Sempione, serving both vegetarian and seafood dishes.

The venue is well worth a visit: there is an inviting terrace framed by greenery for warm-weather dining, yet the real treat lies inside. A monumental carved door transports you straight into an Arabian Nights setting, filled with printed fabrics, colourful ceramics, spice jars and traditional zellige tiles lining the walls. The atmosphere at Fairouz Gerusalemme is warm and welcoming, encouraging conviviality and sharing. Our tip is to visit with a group of friends so you can order several tasting menus and sample all the colourful delicacies on offer. Then again, coming as a pair with a hearty appetite works just as well.

At the heart of Lebanese dining is the mezzeh, a selection of hot and cold small bites including salads, vegetables and various patties, designed to let you enjoy several flavours at once and build up an appetite before the mains. At Fairouz, you can choose from different tasting menus, including four vegetarian options that cover all the Middle Eastern classics, such as hummus, baba ganouj, tabouleh, shawandra, mousaka, falafel, traditional soups and pita bread, alongside three seafood options featuring raw, grilled or baked dishes. All dishes are also available à la carte. Desserts remain strictly traditional, centred on honey, nuts and coconut in typical Eastern Mediterranean fashion, from baklava to rice pudding and almond pastries.

At Fairouz, the cooking is honest and packed with flavour, with meticulous care paid to presentation. The brightly hand-painted ceramic serving dishes complement the vibrant dishes, creating an eye-catching and thoroughly Instagrammable feast.

Cover photo @ Simona Bruno