Back in the 1960's, Beirut was known as the Paris of the Mediterranean. There were lots of different groups, languages, ethnicities, religions, sects, interests, and political factions all intermingled throughout the city. Today, while downtown Beirut is trendy, new, and hip, travel just ten minutes away and you see the destruction from the war. You are just as likely to meet a model or an entrepreneur as you are to meet a soldier or a hezbollah supporter. However, with all of that cultural diversity comes an incredible mix of foods.
Some Lebanese believe the reason so many people are fighting over the land is because it is so lovely. Between the gorgeous coastline, the mountains, the seafood, lamb and produce, it is a place that is not hard to fall in love with. On the face, Beirut seems like a dream city among the Arab world, but they just can't seem to catch a break.
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations airs Monday nights at 10/9c on the Travel Channel.
