Must-try Dishes
Shakshuka - Shakshouka (spicy egg dish) - This comforting dish features poached eggs simmered in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, often topped with herbs. Locals enjoy it for breakfast, usually accompanied by crispy bread for dipping.
Falafel - Falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls) - Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, falafel is a popular street food made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, often served in pita bread with veggies. You’ll find this tasty treat everywhere; just don't confuse it with the more common hummus when ordering!
Hummus - Hummus (chickpea dip) - This smooth, creamy chickpea dip is elevated with tahini and olive oil, served with warm pita. It's a staple at both casual eateries and dinner tables, often enjoyed as a communal dish.
Meat Kebabs - Kebab (grilled skewered meat) - Juicy skewers of marinated lamb or chicken, grilled to perfection, are a favorite main course. Locals typically enjoy these at family gatherings or weekend barbecues, often paired with a fresh salad.
Sabich - Sabich (eggplant and egg sandwich) - A hearty pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and tahini, sabich showcases a wonderful blend of textures. This beloved street food is often grabbed for a quick lunch while strolling through the market.
Chraime - Chraimeh (spicy fish stew) - A flavorful stew of fish cooked in a spicy tomato base with cumin and coriander, it's especially popular on Fridays. Many families reserve it for special occasions, enjoying it with plenty of rice to soak up the rich sauce.
Grilled Vegetable Platter - Rukab (seasonal vegetable dish) - This vibrant assortment of seasonal vegetables, grilled and seasoned with local spices, is a go-to choice during summer months. Enjoyed as a side or a main dish, it's particularly popular during gatherings.
By the way, if you're dining late, you'll see more places open for dinner, creating a lively scene where food and fun come together!
Desserts & Drinks
Arabic Coffee - قهوة عربية (spiced coffee) - A traditional coffee brewed with lightly roasted beans and infused with cardamom, served in small cups. Locals typically enjoy it during social gatherings or after meals, and there's a special protocol: you must always refill the cup if someone’s finished their drink—it’s a sign of hospitality.
Mint Lemonade - ليمون بالنعناع (refreshing citrus drink) - A zesty blend of freshly squeezed lemons and mint leaves, shaken up with ice, making it perfect for hot beach days. You’ll commonly find it sold at street vendors, especially in the summer heat—nothing like sipping it while enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.
Arak - عرق (anise-flavored spirit) - A potent aniseed-based spirit that’s often diluted with water, turning it a milky white. Typically served during gatherings or celebrations, it's paired well with mezze and best enjoyed over long conversations—just don’t drink it too fast; sips are where the flavor's at.
Knafeh - كنافة (cheesy pastry dessert) - This sweet dessert consists of thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered over cheese. It's especially popular during holidays, served warm and gooey from bakeries, but trying it fresh from a street vendor gives it that special street flair—and it’s even better when paired with Turkish coffee.
Shawarma Ice Cream - آيس كريم شاورما (unique cold dessert) - A quirky treat that combines sweet and savory into an ice cream—yes, you read that right! It’s crafted to mimic shawarma flavors and often available during local food festivals; just remember it’s not as weird as it sounds; locals absolutely love it for its unexpected twist!
