You might be thinking: “Seen one Arabian country, seen them all.” You could not be more wrong. Oman is a country with a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by its geography, history, and culture. From the mountainous regions to the coastal cities, Oman offers a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are a treat for any food lover.
Visiting Oman is a treat for your tastebuds and is your gateway to a world of historic and cultural exploration. Here is a look at the culinary delights that await you in Oman and which restaurants you should be booking a seat at.
Must try dishes in Oman
Shuwa
Shuwa is a traditional Omani dish that is typically served during special occasions and festivals. It is made by marinating meat, usually lamb or goat, in a blend of spices and then slow-cooked in an underground oven for several hours. The result is a tender, flavorful meat that is often served with rice and vegetables.
Machboos
Machboos is a rice dish that is similar to biryani. It is made by cooking rice with spices, tomato, onion, and meat or seafood. The dish is often garnished with fried onions, raisins, and nuts and served with a side of salad or chutney.
Halwa
Halwa is a popular Omani dessert that is made with sugar, rose water, saffron, and cardamom. The mixture is then cooked until it forms a thick, sticky paste, which is often served with coffee or tea.
Harees
Sometimes the most delicious food is also the simplest. Harees is a simple but delicious dish that is made from a mixture of ground wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. The mixture is slow-cooked until it forms a smooth, porridge-like consistency and is often served with ghee and spices.
Omani Bread
Omani bread is a staple food in Oman and is often served with traditional dishes. It is a flatbread that is made from flour, water, and salt and is cooked on a griddle or in a tandoor oven. The bread is often served hot and is a perfect accompaniment to any Omani meal.
The best high-end restaurants to try in Oman
If you are feeling fancy, try one of these high-end restaurants in Oman:
The Beach Restaurant at The Chedi Muscat
The Beach Restaurant is a luxurious fine dining experience that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Oman. The restaurant features an extensive seafood menu with dishes such as grilled lobster, shrimp, and scallops. The menu also includes a range of international cuisine, including Japanese, Thai, and European dishes.
Al Angham at the Royal Opera House Muscat
Al Angham is a high-end restaurant that serves traditional Omani cuisine with a contemporary twist. The menu features dishes such as camel meat, Omani lobster, and shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish that is a specialty of the region. The restaurant also offers a beautiful outdoor seating area that overlooks the Royal Opera House Muscat.
The Edge at the Crowne Plaza
The Edge is a luxurious restaurant that serves contemporary European cuisine with an Asian twist. The restaurant offers stunning views of the Gulf of Oman and is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The menu includes dishes such as pan-seared scallops, lamb chops, and seared salmon fillet that you will enjoy while sitting on a cliff overlooking the bay.
Ubhar in Muscat
Ubhar immerses diners in Oman’s enigmatic and royal history with its design and menu. The restaurant is named after an ancient city that is believed to be buried under the southern quarters of the current city. The decor and cuisine are a fusion of contemporary and traditional Omani elements and the mouthwatering desserts are a highlight, particularly the halva-based sweets.
5 Budget-friendly Restaurants to Try
Kargeen Caffe
Kargeen Caffe is a popular cafe that serves traditional Omani cuisine in a relaxed and casual setting. The menu features dishes such as shuwa, Omani biryani, and halwa, a traditional Omani sweet. The cafe has a beautiful outdoor seating area that is perfect for enjoying a meal in the open air.
Bin Ateeq
Bin Ateeq is a small restaurant that serves traditional Omani street food such as shawarma, falafel, and kebabs. The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere and is perfect for a quick and delicious lunch.
Turkish House Restaurant
Turkish House Restaurant is a small restaurant that serves Turkish cuisine in a casual and relaxed setting. The menu includes dishes such as kebabs, mezze platters, and baklava. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating and shisha for a complete Turkish dining experience. Although this isn’t a traditional Omani restaurant, there is no rule against trying some of the quality international fare available in Muscat.
Oman is a place to spoil yourself and experience boundary-pushing fusion cuisine. Here, tradition meets innovation, all served with a beautiful view and warm hospitality. What more could a hungry traveller ask for?
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