Local's Guide to Where to Eat in Muscat

Oman's Food Heritage

Oman’s food reflects its historic role as a prominent trading empire at the crossroads of some of the world’s most famous spice routes. You will find influences from Indian, Persian, North African and Mediterranean cuisines.

Traditional Omani meals are often meat based – most commonly chicken or fish – and feature a mixture of spices and marinades. But the cuisines of the rest of Middle East and Indian Sub-Continent, widely available in Oman, offer almost endless choice for vegetarians.

As with much of the Middle East, rice and flatbreads are key staples served with almost every meal. Again, as is the case in neighbouring countries, you will find no pork on any menu in Oman. Consumption of pig products is forbidden in the Islamic faith. 

Traditional Omani Foods to Try

Shuwa – translating to grilled meat in Arabic, this is a celebratory dish served at Eid and other big family occasions. Meat (usually lamb) is marinated in Omani spices, then wrapped in banana leaves or palm leaves and cooked over a day or two in an underground sand oven. The resulting meat is meltingly tender. Often served with kabuli rice – a seasoned rice with a mixture of spices.

Harees – mixture of dried wheat kernels and meat, cooked together for many hours until the consistency of porridge. Given the time take to prepare Harees, it is usually reserved for a special occasion such as Ramadan or a wedding.

Mishkak – Oman’s most popular street food. Marinated meat, usually chicken, mutton or beef, grilled on long wooden sticks. Served hot with tamarind chutney.