Iris’s delicious cocktails and seafood specialities are pretty damn good, but it’s the breath-taking view of the sea that really sets this place apart. Located in downtown Beirut, Iris is the newest in a veritable royal family of Beirut nightlife venues. The bar takes over space White once occupied atop the iconic Annahar building with a sexy-casual vibe. Bare light bulbs glow in minimalist glory above a wide wooden bar where strong cocktails and delicate international dishes (the in-house chef is French) inspired by the harbour-side location are whisked out with ease. Later in the evening, once the sun has set, the “garden party” atmosphere switches to sophisticate as the Beirut’s downtown towers twinkle to life.