I "Heart" Hamra Street

Hamra Street has always been one of the most happening places in Beirut through out history.  One of the main streets in Beirut, Harma Street is known for its cultural, economic, and educational significance. The Hamra area cannot be categorized into a tourist destination, a business district, a leisure attraction, or even an educational area separately; it is a mix of all. 

 

Even though the Hamra area has had its share of renovation, one can’t help but notice that most of its buildings till have their authentic structure and design.  Even the newly tiled streets give the area the old French look from the time of the mandate.

Hamra Street is home to a vast number of shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and other businesses those of which are international, and others that are of local origin.  The Bestseller clothing brands such as Vero Moda and Jack & Jones have opened a number of shops on the Hamra strip.  International and local cafes such as Starbucks Coffee, Costa Coffee, Lina’s, and Hamra Café are among the many popular places to sit, especially for students from the neighboring universities who are looking for a place to study, other than their college library.  Boubess Group, owners of some of Lebanon’s most hip restaurants and hotels, has also found Hamra Street to be a good location for their rising restaurant empire.  Napolitana (Italian Pizzaria), Kaiten (Sushi Conveyor) and Laziz (new age Lebanese food) are just some of the Boubess restaurants on Hamra Street.  Other popular eateries include Roadster Diner, Deek Duke, and Crepe Away.  Hamra is also home to a number of Hotels and furnished apartment buildings.

     

Regardless of all of the above, the reason I love the Hamra District so much is because I spent the best time their while I attended the American University of Beirut, located on Bliss Street, Hamra District.  Similarly, the Lebanese American University and the Haigazian University are two of the best colleges located in the area, among others.