The quality of food in Tripoli is good and it is generally inexpensive by western standards. Do not expect a huge variety, the cuisine is mostly Arabic. The chances of getting food poisoning is slim but beware of the fish, if you do however feel inclined to sample the fruits of the sea, just take one look at the cleanliness of the harbor and the beaches. There is an Oriental restaurant in the Corinthea hotel and another one in Gargash. Brush up on your Arabic; waiting staff speak little English and getting one of them to serve you at your table can be a challenge.
Budget:
$5 for a takeaway meal, $20 in a good reastaurant, and $40 at a fancy restaurant in the Corinthea hotel.
Mid-range:
Several new cafe shops and bistros opened up in Tripoli. Mostly located in the Gergaresh strip all the way to Seyaheya. Just to name a few of the most popular venues; 02,W Cafe, Veranda, Caracalla, Cacao, Halaweyat Sharkiya and Caffe Casa. Most of these cafes are also restaurants and serve a variety of dishes both western and middle eastern. All are of the afforable range and are very popular amongst the foreigns of the city of Tripoli.
Splurge.
Drink:
Alcohol is forbidden in Libya. It is not available in any restaurants or hotels except black market which may be much pricier than you thought. Fines if caught are hefty.