What Food To Try in Muscat and Food Prices

Shuwa - Slow-roasted lamb - This dish features marinated lamb wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground for hours, resulting in tender, smoky meat. Locals often prepare it for special occasions, enjoying it as part of a communal feast.

Y Mara - Omani breakfast porridge - A warm, creamy porridge made with oats and served with honey and dates, great for starting the day. Many locals enjoy it at home or at breakfast spots, especially on chilly mornings.

Majboos - Spiced rice and meat - A hearty dish combining fragrant rice with tender marinated chicken or lamb, often spiced with saffron and cardamom. It's a staple for lunch among families, served in large platters for sharing.

Samboosa - Savory pastries - These crispy, handheld pastries are filled with spiced meat or vegetables, perfect for a quick bite on the go. You’ll find them at street stalls, often enjoyed during Ramadan and festive gatherings.

Harees - Wheat and meat porridge - Made from cooked wheat and tender meat, this dish has a smooth, creamy texture and is traditionally served with a drizzle of ghee. Locals typically indulge in it during the holy month of Ramadan.

Shorbat Adas - Lentil soup - A filling blend of lentils and spices, this soup has a comforting, rich flavor that warms you up. It's commonly enjoyed as a starter or light dinner, especially during the cooler months.

Seafood Majboos - Spiced rice with seafood - Similar to its meat counterpart, this dish features a mix of fresh fish and prawns cooked with rice and aromatic spices. Perfect for a special Friday lunch by the coast, locals celebrate the weekend with this savory delight.

By the way, don't forget that Omani hospitality shines when sharing meals, so it’s common for everyone to dig into a platter together, which adds a warm communal feel to the dining experience.

Qamar al-Din - قمر الدين (apricot juice) - A refreshing drink made from dried apricots that are soaked and blended with water to create a sweet, thick nectar. It's especially popular during Ramadan, enjoyed while breaking the fast, and often garnished with mint for a fresh twist.

Karak - كرك (spiced tea) - A robust mix of black tea brewed with milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, served piping hot. Locals love to sip it during leisurely gatherings or at roadside stalls, particularly in the late afternoon, making it a go-to pick-me-up.

Omani Wine - نبيذ عماني (local fermented drink) - Although alcohol is not widely consumed, this traditional beverage made from-date or palm juice is often enjoyed at special occasions or ceremonies. It's typically served in small cups, accompanied by dates, which enhance the unique flavors.

Baklava - بقلاوة (sweet pastry) - Delicate layers of filo pastry filled with crushed nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, often shaped into triangles. Perfect for celebrations like Eid, you can find it in local bakeries, and it pairs wonderfully with coffee.

Halwa - حلوي (spiced dessert) - A rich, sticky treat made from semolina, sugar, and spices, giving it a comforting texture and warm flavors. Commonly showcased during festivals and weddings, it’s served at room temperature, often a symbol of hospitality in Omani culture.

By the way, if you plan to try these delights, don’t miss out on the sweet dates served alongside drinks, as they enhance the overall experience!