The Ultimate Foodie’s Guide to Muscat, Oman

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Welcome to Muscat, the capital of Oman, a gourmet wonderland where history, culture, and delectable food converge. Oman’s cuisine offers a distinctive fusion of Indian, Persian, North African, and Mediterranean influences. And here you’re gonna discover the must-try food in Muscat.

City view of Muscat city at golden sunset. The capital of Oman, a great city for food lovers, this article is about the best food in Muscat.
This food paradise is waiting for you!

Oman’s rich past as a significant trade empire at the crossroads of spice routes has left an indelible effect on it. Check out the Salamair flight schedule when planning your gastronomic excursion to Muscat to locate handy and reasonably priced travel alternatives. 

You can start your culinary journey in this lovely Arabian treasure as soon as you land. To help you have the most delicious time in Oman, here is the ultimate guide to experiencing the mouthwatering food in Muscat. 

Traditional Omani Delicacies – Must try food in Muscat

  1. Shuwa: A dish often served during celebrations and family occasions like Eid, shuwa involves slow-cooking marinated lamb or goat in a sand oven underground. The result is tender, succulent meat served over seasoned rice.
  1. Harees: This special dish is made from wheat, ghee, and meat, typically chicken, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency. It is reserved for special occasions like Ramadan or weddings.
  1. Mishkak: A popular Omani street food, mishkak consists of skewered and marinated meat or seafood grilled over charcoal, providing a burst of flavor with every bite.
  1. Dates: An essential in the Middle East, Omani dates are served with qahwa (coffee) as a gesture of warm hospitality.
Freshly made Omani halwa - a traditional dessert in decorative wooden boxes. A must-try food in Muscat.
You must try halwa when visiting Muscat.
  1. Halwa: Oman’s most famous sweet treat, halwa, is a rich dessert made from starch, sugar, rose water, saffron, and nuts, providing a delightfully sweet experience.
  1. Chai Karak: Indulge in the aromatic Chai Karak, a strong tea infused with saffron, green cardamom, and evaporated milk, a favorite around the Gulf.
  1. Khubz Omani: Try the thin bread with flakes, similar to a crepe, usually filled with honey and cheese—a perfect accompaniment to the traditional Chai Karak.

Where to eat in Muscat?

Coffee and Breakfast Spots

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at some of Muscat’s charming cafes:

  1. Azura: Enjoy specialty coffee roasted locally at the Waterfront and Al Mouj. Treat yourself to Uncle Fluffy’s irresistible cheesecakes.
  1. Kaia: A popular casual eatery with a chic menu and serene vibe, offering must-try in-house roasted coffee and delectable cruffins. Indulge in egg benedict with apple confit or fluffy Japanese pancakes for an unforgettable dining experience.
  1. Mint and Coco: Relish Mediterranean nibble with a Middle East twist. Don’t miss their equally lovely cafe.
  1. Qaha Cafe: Discover a slice of Greece in Bowsher with good coffee and attractive ceramic mugs.
  1. Karak Gholam: Enjoy affordable and tasty treats like chapati wraps, samosas, and karak chai in an adorable café in Shatti.

Traditional Omani Cuisine in Muscat

Explore the rich flavors of Omani cuisine at these top-notch restaurants in Muscat:

  1. Ubhar: Named after a mythical lost city, this restaurant offers an array of traditional Omani dishes with a contemporary twist, located near the Royal Opera House.
  1. Dukanah Cafe: After a visit to Sultan Qaboos Mosque, head to Dukanah for generous portions of traditional Omani food in a setting replicating an old Muscat house.
  1. Mama Halima’s Kitchen: Delight in home-cooked, wonderfully spiced Omani food served in a welcoming, cozy ambiance adorned with Omani crockery and jugs.
  1. Bait al Luban: Indulge in classic Omani dishes in an elegant restaurant with a choice of dining traditionally on floor cushions or a beautiful balcony with a view of the Corniche.

South Asian Food in Muscat

Experience the amazing Indian subcontinent eateries in Muscat:

  1. Al Shariq Coffee Shop: Relish traditional Tibetan dishes like momos (steamed or fried dumplings) served with spicy dips.
  1. Al Haikal Bakery: Savor stuffed paratha, like in Pakistan, at incredibly low prices.
  1. Mumbai Tadka: Explore an extensive menu of authentic vegetarian dishes from Maharashtra, India.
  1. Tuk Tuk: Delight in Mumbai’s street food, including the must-try pav bhaji, soft buns served with a spiced vegetable curry.
  1. Foodlands Al Khuwair: Indulge in the best thali from North India in Muscat, offering a variety of great Indian foods.

Casual Dining in Muscat

Indulge in a delightful culinary journey with exquisite evening dining options in Muscat:

  1. Turkish House: Experience warm service and excellent, value-for-money Turkish food, with a range of options for shawarma and fresh fish.
  1. On The Wood: Enjoy top-notch Lebanese cuisine, including delicious hummus with marinated beef over the top.
  1. B&F Roadside Diner: Satisfy your cravings for American burgers, sliders, and fries at the Boulevard Mall branch.
  1. Loko: Treat yourself to incredible Mughal cuisine, with a vast menu of biryanis and a variety of paneer dishes.

Fancy Dining in Muscat

For special occasions, consider these upscale dining restaurants in Muscat:

  1. Afternoon Tea at Al Bustan Palace: Indulge in afternoon tea at this luxurious 5-star hotel, where you can enjoy cakes, sandwiches, and delightful pastries in a spectacular atrium setting.
  1. The Beach Restaurant: Relish fresh and delectable seafood dishes right at the beach in The Chedi, with waves gently lapping in the background.
  1. Caramel Restaurant & Lounge: Experience the fusion of American, Asian, and Middle Eastern inspirations at this elegant restaurant in the Royal Opera House.
  1. Ba Ban: Discover excellent Chinese cuisine at the W Hotel, with a variety of options that feels like homemade and fantastic noodles.

Drinks in Muscat

Satisfy your thirst with these exceptional drinks in Muscat:

  1. Juice World: Sip thirst-quenching fresh juices at the Muttrah Corniche outlet with an unbeatable view of the Corniche.
  1. The Edge, Crowne Plaza: Enjoy drinks and Asian-inspired menu items at this popular licensed sundowner spot with a stunning view.
  1. Fauchon: Try French patisseries and fresh fruit juices in the courtyard in front of the Royal Opera House, especially beautiful at sunset.
  1. Le Makan: Relax and unwind with views of the mangroves and the Arabian Sea, making it a popular shisha place.
  1. Siddharta Lounge: Sip cocktails and enjoy the rooftop view of the W Hotel’s infinity pool, seemingly merging with the Arabian Sea in front.

Delicious Food in Muscat wrap up

In Muscat, every meal is a delightful journey into the heart of Oman’s rich culinary heritage. From traditional Omani delicacies to the vibrant flavors of South Asian cuisine, this foodie’s paradise offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. 

Photo of bags of spices, most of the used in Omani cuisine.
The mix of culture and flavors makes Oman cuisine unique and delicious.

Whether you’re indulging in street food, enjoying breakfast at charming cafes, or splurging on fancy dining, Muscat promises to be a dream destination for every food lover. If you are traveling around the Middle East, don’t forget to read our guide to the hidden gems in Dubai to enjoy the city in a unique way.

So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to savor the best of Muscat’s food scene.

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