"Creative mezze with castle views over the Old Souk — Byblos's most romantic table since 2008, if you secure the terrace."
About Locanda a la Granda
Locanda a la Granda has occupied a prime corner of the Byblos Old Souk since the summer of 2008, its tables set against honey-coloured stone within sight of the Crusader castle gate on Pepe Abed Street. The kitchen takes the familiar grammar of Lebanese mezze and rewrites it, which is why the room draws as many curious locals as it does visitors wandering up from the harbour.
It is a restaurant built for lingering rather than for a fast meal, and it reads as one of the more atmospheric choices for a first date in town.
The Kitchen
The signature is the red hummus — the standard chickpea puree given colour and a low warmth — served alongside a mixed grill platter of skewered meats that anchors most tables. The wider menu reworks traditional mezze into more inventive plates while keeping vegetarian options genuinely substantial rather than an afterthought.
Prices sit in the mid-to-upper bracket for Byblos: mezze run roughly LBP 9,500 to 38,000, with grilled meats from about LBP 31,000 to 52,500.
The Room
The setting is the draw. Stone arches, soft lighting and gentle music open onto a souk-side terrace that looks toward the ancient monuments below. It is intimate without being hushed — the lanes outside keep a steady hum, and on summer weekends the terrace fills early.
For a quieter Byblos meal, Feniqia by the water is the calmer alternative.
Best for a Romantic Evening
Book the terrace at dusk and Locanda becomes one of the most romantic seats in Byblos, with castle stone glowing as the light drops. It suits a first date or a low-key anniversary where the view does much of the work.
Not for
Not for travellers chasing strictly traditional Lebanese cooking, or anyone wanting a hushed meal — the souk lanes and music keep the room lively.
Frequently Asked
What is Locanda a la Granda known for?
Its reworked Lebanese mezze — above all the red hummus — and its setting in the Byblos Old Souk facing the Crusader castle. It has been open since the summer of 2008.
Where is Locanda a la Granda?
In the Old Souk of Byblos (Jbeil), on Pepe Abed Street facing the historical castle's main gate, about an hour north of Beirut.
How much does dinner cost?
Mid-to-upper range for Byblos: mezze roughly LBP 9,500–38,000 and grilled meats about LBP 31,000–52,500, plus drinks.
Is Locanda a la Granda good for couples?
Yes. The souk-side terrace at dusk, with castle views and gentle music, makes it one of the more romantic tables in Byblos — book the terrace ahead in summer.
Does it cater to vegetarians?
Yes. Alongside the grills, the mezze selection includes substantial vegetarian plates rather than token options.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at Locanda a la Granda
Reservations by phone or Facebook. Ask for a terrace table in summer and book ahead on weekends.
Affiliate disclosure: Restaurants for Kings may earn a commission when you book through our reservation links, at no cost to you. Our scores are editorial and never paid for.
Practical Information
AddressOld Souk, Pepe Abed St, by the castle gate
NeighbourhoodOld Souk (Jbeil)
CuisineLebanese · Mediterranean
PriceMezze LBP 9,500–38,000; grills LBP 31,000–52,500
Dress CodeSmart casual
SeatingIndoor dining room and souk-side terrace
ReservationBook ahead for the terrace, especially summer weekends
