WHERE TO PLAY

– In the heart of Beirut, the atmosphere at Al Falamanki (01 323456, alfalamanki.com, Monot Street, Beirut) restaurant takes you back to village life. Play a game of backgammon in relaxing surroundings to a soundtrack of Fairouz while enjoying mezze.

– Popular Hamra spot T Marbouta’s (01 350274, Hamra Square Center) love of the game is obvious upon entering with a large wall-sized artwork of two players hunched over a game of backgammon above Beirut’s urban sprawl. Their outdoor terrace attracts a younger crowd of hip Beirutis and is the perfect spot to get lost in a game between conversations, food and arak.

– Located in Manara, Café Rawda’s (01 743348, General de Gaulle Avenue, Manara) vast leafy terrace overlooking the sea makes for a stunning backdrop to a game of backgammon with a mint lemonade and .