I’ve heard of “the Armenian lady” who makes great Lahme Baajin at Zokak El Blat since ever, but I never bothered checking her bakery out until last weekend and finally knew what was I missing, a lot!
People probably call her “the Armenian lady” because there isn’t lot of Armenian shops in western Beirut, while her bakery is in fact called “Ichkhanian” (by the family name of her late husband) and has been operating since before the civil war.
The Lahme Baajin you’ll find there are just awesome and could be the best in Beirut, the dough is so thin and the meat has a unique taste especially if you ask for the extra spicy mix. Perfect for a quick bite anytime a day.
The bakery also caters Manti, Shish Barak, and Borek at relatively reasonable prices, and I heard they’re great as well.
One thing you should be aware of is the bad temper that Mrs. Ichkhanian sometimes shows, she’s actually a very nice lady but for some reason seems furious all the time. Still, the food is totally worth it.
Here’s a map showing where the bakery is exactly located and how you can reach it.
Amazing post, I discovered this bakery one month ago when I was taking some photos for the old building in zarif area, I advise u to go walk in the lovely neighborhood and to taste the lahme baajin there…can’t wait to visit it again
Same here, I want to go again and try the Lahm Baajin with pomegranate syrup, I heard it’s so good!
Great shots!!
Thanks!
I dont like business owners who seem mad and like irritated from over-work
She seems ‘3eyfe rabba’ in that 1st pic
She’s still good though, trust me 😉
LOL she’s like the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld 😀 By the way, try their Mante, it’s really really good!
Added to the list! Thanks Sarine! 😀
Personally, I’m curious about this woman’s story… Anyone know anything more?
Hello,
You may find a brief on this link http://ichkhanianbakery.com/aboutus.aspx
They have recently opened a branch in Zalka (the road of Bank Byblos, on the right) so if you are in that area you can enjoy the glory too.
Lahmajoun (Lahm Baajin) w pomegranate syrup is a must try, so is the mante n sou boyreg (later, only in Zokak El Blat branch).
Going back in time, Armenians used to live in the Zokak El Blat area. During the civil war, many escaped and left the area. There are few living still in the neighborhood, one of which is Mrs. Ichkhanian.
I’ve also tried the vegetarian number: a medley of diced onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and parsley. Delicious! But yes, the pomegranate-molasses la7me b3ajjin trumps all.
I know what I’m having for lunch today 😉