(Flint, Mich, 08/24/2026) – For 25 years, the savory aroma of garlic, lemon, and grilled chicken shawarma has been a comforting constant for food lovers in Genesee County. It all started as a dream for David Jawhari, who wanted nothing more than to share the vibrant flavors and deep hospitality of his Lebanese heritage with his community. Together with his son, Sam Jawhari, they opened the original Beirut Restaurant and Grocery in Flint, laying down roots that would span a quarter of a century, cross lines into Linden, and ultimately thrive as a staple stand inside the Flint Farmers Market.
From day one, the business was built on a simple philosophy: treat every customer like family. Sam and his wife, Enaya Jawhari, who run the market stand today, have kept that promise alive. Whether serving up a fresh batch of hummus, hand-rolled grape leaves, tabouli, or baba ghanoush, the food has always been served with a genuine smile and a heartfelt question about how the customer is doing. The Jawhari family didn’t just build a customer base; they looked after their neighbors, watched local families grow, and became an essential thread in the fabric of the community.
From day one, the business was built on a simple philosophy: treat every customer like family. Sam and his wife, Enaya Jawhari, who run the market stand today, have kept that promise alive. Whether serving up a fresh batch of hummus, hand-rolled grape leaves, tabouli, or baba ghanoush, the food has always been served with a genuine smile and a heartfelt question about how the customer is doing. The Jawhari family didn’t just build a customer base; they looked after their neighbors, watched local families grow, and became an essential thread in the fabric of the community.
“The Jawhari family has been a cornerstone of our market for so long. The genuine love of community and sense of family they display is a source of pride for our market. We are so excited to welcome the 3rd generation from this amazing family. We are grateful that David and Anisse settled here in the greater Flint community and that Sam, Enaya and now Raied are continuing that legacy,” said Karianne Martus, manager of the Flint Farmers’ Market.
Now, as Beirut Restaurant and Grocery celebrates its landmark 25th anniversary, a historic milestone is unfolding behind the counter. The third generation is stepping up. Raied Jawhari, Sam and Enaya’s son, is preparing to take the reins from his father, ensuring that his grandfather David’s legacy, recipes, and signature warmth will continue to serve the market for decades to come. Three generations of hard work, one dedicated family, and 25 years of feeding the community with love — the story of Beirut Restaurant and Grocery is a delicious reminder of what makes Flint strong.
Now, as Beirut Restaurant and Grocery celebrates its landmark 25th anniversary, a historic milestone is unfolding behind the counter. The third generation is stepping up. Raied Jawhari, Sam and Enaya’s son, is preparing to take the reins from his father, ensuring that his grandfather David’s legacy, recipes, and signature warmth will continue to serve the market for decades to come. Three generations of hard work, one dedicated family, and 25 years of feeding the community with love — the story of Beirut Restaurant and Grocery is a delicious reminder of what makes Flint strong.
The Flint Farmers’ Market has been owned by Uptown Reinvestment Corporation since 2002. Currently, it is home to 45 year-round vendors and dozens of outdoor seasonal growers and artisans. It is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on the market, go to www.flintfarmersmarket.com
