Classic Burger Joint’s 3rd Branch Opens in DownTown Beirut

If you haven’t read my review of the first CBJ in Sodeco and the second in Jal El Dib please do before reading the rest. That’s because the burgers are of course the same, perhaps even better than the first two at the moment since they’re still winning customers’ hearts for the new place.

The location might’ve been questionable, considering Sodeco is less than 5 minutes away. Another reason is no parking nearby, forcing you to park in one of the surrounding paid parking lots. However, Beirut’s Central District is mostly pedestrian, so it fits right in.

The first obvious thing that is different about this new branch is an outdoors area. Its size is slightly smaller than Sodeco’s and definitely smaller than Jal el Dib’s. The outdoors section makes up for the lost space though and as you can see easily fits 4 tables.

Another cute addition is the peanut bags. CBJ often has cues waiting for a seat, in the Down Town branch, you’re given a bag of peanuts to enjoy as the time passes. Wine bottles are also a new feature, with rose and vin blanc bottle stocked under the stairs leading up to the restrooms.

All in all, this new branch is lovely and I’ve been there twice already. The location is convenient, especially if you work in the Down Town area. It’s also a perfect new option if you’re hitting Beirut Souks or the surrounding streets for some shopping. This CBJ came as a surprise though, especially since they’re planning to open in Zaytunay Bay later this year. Then again, the small size of the branches makes the more numerous, the better!

Verdict: Loved it, right in the heart of the city, perfect casual place for a good burger on your lunch break or shopping-spree break (or pre-clubbing meal!)

Price: Very fair compared to some new competitors, but the overpriced soft drink tiny bottles is turning me into an alcoholic =P

Atmosphere: Busy but not overcrowded (I guess not everybody knows about it yet!), non-smoking inside, smoking outside (which is sort of a disadvantage in this branch)

Staff: Very courteous and friendly and Teta’s currently stationed there

Food: I loved the Swiss-Mushroom burger, as usual everywhere =P