Oman is a country full of surprises, especially when it comes to its food. The local cuisine here blends Middle Eastern, Indian, and African influences, resulting in a unique set of flavors that you just can’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re wandering through the local markets or dining at a luxurious restaurant, you’ll find food in Oman to be hearty, flavorful, and filled with a rich history.
Must-Try Omani Dishes
1. Shuwa
If there’s one dish you have to try in Oman, it’s shuwa. This is the ultimate celebration meal. A whole lamb is marinated in a mix of Omani spices like cardamom, saffron, and coriander, and then slow-cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours. The result? Meat so tender it falls off the bone, with smokey flavor infused throughout. It’s traditionally served with rice.
Shuwa is often reserved for special occasions, but you can find it in some local restaurants if you ask around. Al Khoudh may be a good spot to try it during festivals.
2. Majboos (Kabsa)
Majboos, also called Kabsa, is another must-try dish. It’s a spiced rice dish cooked with chicken, beef, or lamb, similar to biryani but with Omani flavors like dried limes and saffron. The meat is always tender and juicy, and the rice is flavorful thanks to the numerous spices used in its preparation.
This dish can be found in many restaurants and is a staple in Omani homes. For a traditional experience, try it at a local eatery in the Mutrah Souq area.
3. Mashuai
Oman has a rich seafood tradition, and mashuai is one of the best fish dishes you can find. It features spit-roasted kingfish that is marinated in lemon and spices, served with rice—usually a bit simpler than shuwa or majboos, but just as delicious.
If you’re visiting Muscat, head to Sidab Sea Tours Restaurant for a fresh plate of mashuai. The locals will tell you it’s the best place for seafood in the area.
4. Harees
This is a dish primarily enjoyed during Ramadan but is available year-round in some restaurants. It’s made from wheat that’s been slow-cooked with meat (usually chicken or lamb) until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. Harees is simple but incredibly filling and warm, perfect for a light yet tasty meal.
You can try the best versions at small, family-run spots in Nizwa.
5. Halwa
An Omani meal isn’t complete without trying some halwa for dessert. Omani halwa is dark and sticky, made from ingredients like rosewater, saffron, almonds, and caramelized sugar. It’s often served with coffee, making it the ideal sweet finish to a meal.
You can find some of the best halwa at The Omani Halwa Factory in Mutrah. Here you can see the process as they make this iconic treat fresh daily.
Street Foods You Can’t Miss
1. Mishkak (Omani Grilled Meat Skewers)
Mishkak is the go-to street food in Oman. These skewers of spiced meat (usually beef, chicken, or lamb) are grilled over charcoal and served with a simple bread or rice. The meat is often marinated in local spices like turmeric, cumin, and black pepper.
The best places to find mishkak are the coastal areas like Seeb and Shatti Al Qurum, where vendors set up stalls in the evening.
2. Samak (Fried Fish)
Oman’s coastline means you’ll find fried fish as a common street food. Simple but tasty, local fish is coated in spices and fried until crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. It’s usually served with rice or flatbread.
You can pick up some freshly fried samak from the Corniche area in Mutrah, where street vendors are always frying up fish caught the same day.
3. Shawarma
While shawarma isn’t unique to Oman, it’s definitely a staple of the street food scene here. You’ll see stalls all over, especially in Muscat, offering this popular Middle Eastern wrap. The thin slices of meat (usually chicken or lamb) are shaved off the spit and wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce, pickles, and sometimes fries.
Shawarma stalls are spread all around Muscat, but I recommend trying it from a small local stand in Ruwi for a true Omani experience.
Regional Specialties
1. Dhofari Camel Meat
In the southern region of Oman, particularly near Salalah, camel meat is a real treat. Dhofari dishes featuring camel meat are well-known for their flavor. You can try camel biryani or stews that blend camel meat with local spices to create hearty meals perfect for any time of day.
For the best camel dishes, visit traditional restaurants around Salalah Market, where the meat is usually sourced fresh daily.
2. Madrouba
Madrouba is a dish mostly served in the Musandam region. It’s basically a pureed rice dish cooked together with chicken, garlic, and spices. The texture is creamy, somewhat like risotto, but with deep, fragrant flavors from Omani spices.
If you’re visiting Khasab, look for restaurants that serve this dish. Locals often recommend trying it with a side of chutney or salad.
Where to Eat: From Street Stalls to Fine Dining
Street Market Food
The best way to experience Omani food is to eat where the locals eat. If you’re in Muscat, head to the Mutrah or Nizwa Souqs. Here you’ll find street vendors selling fresh fruits, grilled meats, and those delicious mishkak skewers. It’s affordable and gives you a real taste of everyday Omani life.
Local Eateries and Cafes
If you’re looking for something a bit more casual but still seated, visit the small, family-run restaurants scattered throughout major towns. In Muscat, check out Kargeen Caffe, which serves traditional fare in a garden setting. For fresh fish and seafood, Sidab Sea Tours is a hidden gem along the coast.
Fine Dining Options
If high-end is your style, Muscat has some luxurious dining options as well. Al Angham is known for its fine take on traditional Omani dishes like shuwa and fresh seafood. Another notable mention is The Beach at Al Bustan Palace, which offers fresh seafood with a backdrop of ocean views.
Conclusion
Oman’s food scene is undeniably rich and diverse. From street food stalls serving grilled meats to fine dining establishments preparing traditional feasts, there’s something to satisfy every kind of traveler. Don’t miss out on staples like shuwa, mishkak, or halwa, and make sure to venture into local markets and souqs for a truly authentic experience.
Your taste buds will thank you!
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