Famous all over the world, Zghorta is known for its goat meat, amazing Arak and the Kebbeh bakeries only found in this village. I'd wanted to visit for so long and here I was not to shoot an episode, but to get an overview for my upcoming visits.
A famous spot in Zghorta is a family restaurant called "Lekmeh Zghortawiyeh", (لقمة زغرتاوية) which translates to "a bite from Zghorta" and which prepares original traditional recipes from the village. A small place filled with square tables under a wooden ceiling, walls painted in burgundy as well as tablecloths. Simple, yet with a feel of warmth and authenticity.
The menu is distributed on the tables and features a plat du jour for the month to come. Fassoulia, koussa, fawaregh, Kebbeh, bazella, labniyeh, siyaddieh, moghrsbiyeh and shish barak are just some of the dishes available. I was drooling and wishing today was a lunch visit, not simply breakfast.
Sitting inside, you will hear the ceiling creaking under the family's feet. The kitchen is up there and everyone's busy preparing a fresh breakfast.
This morning, at 8am, I was promised a Lebanese breakfast like the one I get at home.
Breakfast was served and was amazing! We had Hummos, Labneh, vegetables, eggs and Kebbeh. Labneh, the real Labneh, firm and flavorful. Lightly salty, this Labneh is unique. Hummos, an equilibrated Hummos with a bit of lemon, balanced tahina and the richness of homemade chickpeas felt under the palate. The eggs are fried with olive oil and the lower part is extremely crispy, while the upper part is moist and fresh, amazing local eggs prepared with olive oil. That's awesome. With that we were offered a plate of Kebbeh, the famous zghorta Kebbeh molded in balls and left empty inside. The firm, chewy dough with a light crisp I enjoyed on its own, as well as dipped in Labneh or Hummos. Crunchy cucumbers, tender tomatoes, green sour olives and fresh bread. That was amazing!
Amazing, simply amazing. The simplicity and authenticity of Zghortiot food. I'm surely coming back for lunch, I'm convinced that'll amaze me.
First time in Zgharta? Visit "Lekmeh Zghartawieh" for an introduction to the local food specialties.
They can be contacted on +961-71-907797 or +961-6-660356
