How to Drink Arak Properly
Arak is more than a drink — it’s a Lebanese ritual. Whether enjoyed with friends or over a generous table of mezze, there is a proper way to drink it that elevates its aroma, purity, and character. Brands like Fay Arak follow the same traditions that shaped this ritual for generations.
The Traditional Lebanese Serving Method
In Lebanon, Arak is always served in three steps:
Arak first
A small amount of Arak is poured into the glass.Then water
Usually twice the amount of water is added.Then ice
Ice comes last so the drink doesn’t crystallize or burn the flavor.
This ritual applies whether you are drinking classic Lebanese arak or refined craft bottles like Fay Arak.
Arak Water Ratio
The golden ratio is:
1 part Arak : 2 parts water
This gives the perfect balance of strength, aroma, and smoothness.
Some prefer 1:3 for a lighter drink — common with smoother artisanal arak such as Fay Arak, which maintain flavor even at softer dilutions.
Why Arak Turns White
When water is added, Arak turns milky white.
This phenomenon is called the louche effect.
Why it happens:
Arak contains anethole, the essential oil from anise.
Anethole is soluble in alcohol but not in water.
When water hits the alcohol, the oils separate and create the signature white “cloud.”
It’s a sign of purity — especially in high-quality distillations like Fay Arak.
When to Add Ice
Ice should always be added after the water.
If you add ice before water:
The sudden temperature drop can shock the alcohol.
The drink may crystallize or become cloudy in an uneven way.
Flavor becomes harsher.
Adding ice last keeps the drink smooth and elegant.
Best Glass for Arak
The ideal glass is the small, narrow Arak glass known in Lebanon as:
“Kass es Arak” (Arak glass)
Sometimes called a “tall shot glass”
Why this glass works best:
Concentrates the aroma of anise
Helps maintain the cold temperature
Ideal for slow sipping during a long meal
Arak and Lebanese Mezze
Arak is meant to be enjoyed with mezze, especially:
Grilled meats (mashawi)
Kebbeh (nayeh or fried)
Tabbouleh & fattoush
Labneh & cheeses
Seafood plates
Hummus & baba ghanoush
The anise flavor cleanses the palate and enhances Mediterranean dishes beautifully.
This is why Fay Arak pairs effortlessly with a generous Lebanese table.
Discover Fay Arak
Fay Arak is crafted to honor the traditional Lebanese experience — triple-distilled, clean, and beautifully balanced so it opens up perfectly when mixed with water.
Whether you follow the classic 1:2 ratio or prefer something lighter, its refined anise and smooth body make it ideal for long lunches, mezze tables, or elegant evenings.
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