Syrian food is a delicious blend of Mediterranean, Arab, and Persian influences. Its dishes are rich, flavorful, and full of history. If you’re traveling through Syria, there are several key foods you simply must try. From traditional meals to street food, every bite tells a story. Here are some of the best local foods in Syria and where to go to enjoy them at their finest.
Kibbeh
One of Syria’s most famous dishes, kibbeh is made from bulgur wheat, ground meat, and spices. There are many types of kibbeh, but the most common is fried kibbeh, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. You may also find raw kibbeh, which is a bit like a Middle Eastern steak tartare. It’s often served as part of mezze, a variety of small appetizer dishes.
Where to Try Kibbeh
For some of the best kibbeh in Syria, head to Beit Jabri in Damascus. This traditional restaurant serves several kinds, all made fresh daily. Another great spot is Al-Nawfara, also in Damascus’ old city, where you can enjoy your meal with views of the ancient surroundings.
Fatteh
Fatteh is a hearty dish made with layers of toasted bread, chickpeas, yogurt, and garlic. It’s usually eaten for breakfast or as a light lunch. The combination of creamy yogurt and crunchy bread bits is a satisfying contrast. This dish is especially popular in Damascus.
Where to Try Fatteh
For a seriously good fatteh, visit Abu Shady in Damascus. Locals consider it one of the best places in the city to grab a plate of this comfort food. Another option is the cozy Al-Khawali Restaurant, where the fatteh is freshly made and full of flavor.
Shawarma
You can’t talk about street food in Syria without mentioning shawarma. This popular sandwich is made of slow-roasted marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb), served with garlic sauce and pickles, all wrapped in thin pita bread. It’s the perfect meal on the go.
Where to Try Shawarma
If you’re craving the best shawarma, head to Shawarma Dabeek in Aleppo. It’s always busy, which means the food is fresh, hot, and popular with locals. In Damascus, try Aaron’s Shawarma, famous for its garlic sauce and juicy fillings.
Hummus
Hummus is a worldwide favorite, but there’s nothing quite like tasting it in Syria. Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice, Syrian hummus is incredibly smooth, creamy, and full of fresh, natural flavors. It’s typically served as part of mezze or as a side dish.
Where to Try Hummus
Some of the best hummus in Syria can be found at Beit Sitti in Damascus. Another local favorite is Jasmine Terrace, where you can pair your hummus with fresh bread straight from the oven.
Muhammara
Muhammara is another mezze dip you shouldn’t miss. It’s made from ground walnuts, red pepper paste, and pomegranate molasses. The result is a rich, slightly sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with warm pita bread.
Where to Try Muhammara
Stop by Abu George in Aleppo for an authentic take on muhammara. This restaurant is known for its incredible mezze selection. Alternatively, check out Bab Tuma in Damascus for a range of traditional Syrian appetizers, including a perfect muhammara.
Sfiha
If you like pizza, you’ll love sfiha. These are small flatbreads topped with minced meat, onions, and spices. Some places also add pine nuts or pomegranate seeds for extra flavor. Sfiha is popular as street food or a snack, but you can also find it in sit-down restaurants.
Where to Try Sfiha
Go to Sfiha Al-Sayed in Hama for the tastiest sfiha. It’s one of the city’s culinary highlights. In Aleppo, you’ll find delicious sfiha at Al-Kompis Bakery, a local spot that has been serving these tasty meat pies for generations.
Knafeh
Now for the dessert: knafeh. This sweet treat is made from layers of shredded phyllo dough and cheese, soaked in sugar syrup and often topped with pistachios. The combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy makes it an irresistible dessert in Syria.
Where to Try Knafeh
The best knafeh is found in Homs or Aleppo. In Homs, visit Qasr Al Helou, famous for its rich and perfectly baked knafeh. In Aleppo, Knafeh Al Kamal is your go-to spot, serving knafeh baked fresh every day.
Basbousa
Another dessert worth trying is basbousa. It’s a semolina cake soaked in syrup and sometimes topped with almonds. It’s a simple but satisfying way to end any Syrian meal.
Where to Try Basbousa
For one of the best basbousas, visit Al-Halawi Sweets in Damascus. Their cakes are moist, sweet, and made with traditional ingredients.
Falafel
Falafel is a popular street food snack in Syria and across the Middle East. These crispy balls of ground chickpeas or fava beans seasoned with garlic and parsley are deep-fried and usually served in pita bread with tahini and vegetables.
Where to Try Falafel
Some of the best falafel can be found at Falafel Sahyoun in Damascus. This local chain has been around for decades and is loved for its crunchy, perfectly spiced falafel. In Aleppo, try Falafel Al-Yasmeen, a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Makdous
Makdous is a vegetarian dish made from baby eggplants that have been pickled and stuffed with walnuts and garlic. It’s often served as part of mezze or alongside other traditional dishes. It’s salty, tangy, and incredibly delicious, especially when paired with fresh bread.
Where to Try Makdous
For a taste of authentic makdous, check out Abou Alaa in Damascus. Their version is homemade daily and packed with flavor. For another great option, try Abu Hatem in Homs, a well-known spot for mouthwatering mezze.
Tips for Finding Local Food in Syria
Many of the best food experiences in Syria happen in small, family-run restaurants. Don’t always go for the fancier places; sometimes the best meals are hidden away in more modest settings. It’s also a good idea to ask locals for their recommendations. Syrians are proud of their cuisine and love sharing their favorite spots with visitors.
If you’re looking for street food, Damascus’ old city and Aleppo’s bazaars are overflowing with vendors selling shawarma, falafel, and fresh juices. These spots are lively, and you’ll be able to sample a variety of dishes for just a few Syrian pounds.
Conclusion
Syria has a rich and varied food culture that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re sitting down for a traditional meal or grabbing some street food on the go, every bite in Syria offers something unique. Be sure to try the dishes above and visit the local restaurants that continue to add to Syria’s culinary tradition.
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