One of Beirut’s most popular live music venues, Nova is tucked away in an up-and-coming neighbourhood just outside central Beirut. Designed like an American roadhouse, it’s large, with pool tables, basic tables and chairs, a bar and a stage where local rock and punk bands strut their stuff three or four times a week. The young crowd are into their music, so when a group such as local stars The Kordz play, they go wild. Bands usually perform a selection of their own tunes as well as covers. The drinks are cheap and the vibe incredibly up-for-it. During the week there are often opportunities to jam, so if you fancy a beer and stepping up to play some Hendrix riffs, Nova is your place. It makes a good appetizer for a big night out; but if you don’t like rock, you won’t like Nova.