Historic falafel counter on Damascus Road, known for its single sandwich since the 1930s.
Falafel Sahyoun sells one thing, the falafel sandwich, and has done so since the 1930s according to several food writers, starting from a cart on the corner before moving into the current shop on Damascus Road in the Bachoura district. A family split in 2006 produced two nearly identical shops side by side, each claiming the original legacy, so visitors will see two counters. The sandwich is crisp falafel patties in thin bread with tomato, pickled turnip, parsley and tahini sauce, and is among the cheapest filling meals in the city. It is takeaway food eaten standing, with limited seating. Phone numbers published for the shop include +961 1 659 139 and +961 1 633 188. Hours are not published in the sources reviewed, so it is best visited in the morning to mid-afternoon. A short taxi ride from Downtown or Martyrs' Square, it fits alongside a walk through the nearby National Museum area.
| Price | Roughly USD 1.5-3 per sandwich (~0.13-0.27 million LBP), estimate |
|---|---|
| Hours | Hours not published in sources reviewed; typically daytime, confirm by phone |
| Reservations | Walk-in; takeaway counter |
| Address | Damascus Road (Tarik el Sham), Bachoura, Beirut; tel +961 1 659 139 |
Signature dishes
- Falafel sandwich
- Falafel with extra tahini
Good to know
- Known for
- Falafel
Location
Damascus Road (Tarik el Sham), Bachoura, Beirut; tel +961 1 659 139
33.8904, 35.5066 View on map
Highlights
- Falafel sandwiches served since the 1930s
- Two rival shops stand side by side
- Very cheap and quick
- Close to Martyrs' Square and the National Museum
Tips for visiting
- Phone +961 1 659 139 to confirm opening on the day.
- Ask for it with extra pickled turnips and hot sauce if you like heat.
- Take cash; it is a street counter.
- Visit before 15:00; late afternoon stock may run out.
When to visit
Mid-morning to early afternoon
Accessibility
Tiny street-level counter; step-free but little space.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there two Sahyoun shops?
A family dispute in 2006 led to two near-identical shops next to each other; both sell the same style of sandwich.
How much is a sandwich?
Roughly USD 1.5-3 (~0.13-0.27 million LBP), estimate.
Is there seating?
Seating is minimal; most customers eat standing or take away.