Damascus Restaurants

Leila's Restaurant & Terrace

#2 of 132 things to do in Damascus

#2 of 132 things to do in Damascus

1 reviews | Write a review

Good for: atmosphere, food, Solo Travellers

  • Address
    • Souq al-Abbabiyya Central Old City
  • Phone
    • tel, info: 011 544 5900
  • Hours
    • 11:00-02:00

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Lonely Planet review for Leila's Restaurant & Terrace

This al fresco rooftop restaurant overlooking Umayyad Mosque has the most magical setting in Damascus, especially for sunset drinks - the fresh mint lemonade is thirst-quenching - or later for dinner when the city lights twinkle. The menu features delicious Arabic mezze - try the eggplant kibbeh (cracked-wheat croquettes) - and succulent grills. Alcohol is served, but it's not on the menu - ask the waiter what is available.

 

Traveller reviews for Leila's Restaurant & Terrace (1)

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    Leila's

    zara_arshad recommends this,

    Situated in the Islamic quarter of the Old City (near Ummayad Mosque), Leila's is one (of three) of my favourite restaurants in the area.

    Food: Leila's boasts a very extensive menu with very reasonable prices. The food has mostly been great; over a 3 year period, there have been 1 or 2 bad experiences. On the whole, however, I would highly recommend the food. I usually order many Mezze dishes, which seem to satisfy; hummus (with meat), babaghanoush, kibbeh and fatoush are amongst my favourites. If I have enough room for a mains course, I usually order one of the meat dishes, as these are very tasty, or a saaj (Syrian version of the sandwich). Leila's is one of the few places that offers these, though that may be just down to experience. Pastries and anything with halloumi cheese is heaven!

    In terms of drinks; I don't drink alcohol, so I am unable to offer any advice on this, however, the lemon/mint drink is very popular. Fresh juices and soft drinks are also available.

    Service: Wherever you go in Damascus, service has always been a bit touch and go; here is no exception. Just make sure you have the waiter's eye and everything should be peachy.

    Atmosphere & Setting: The restaurant is set over 3 floors in an old Arabic house style. I personally tend to stick to the bottom floor and the terrace. The bottom floor has an indoor setting and is best for a relaxing lunch (the bathrooms here are also very nice!). The terrace is usually very popular in the evenings. It features great views, and has a great "hustle and bustle" feel to it, but make sure you book in advance as the tables here get snapped up very quickly. As with most restaurants now, flatscreen TVs have been added to the decor, which come in particular use during the sporting seasons (the atmosphere during the 2006 FIFA World Cup was absolutely amazing).

    Overall: Great atmosphere and great Syrian food.

    Good for: atmosphere, food, Solo Travellers

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