What Food To Try in Makkah and Food Prices

Shakshuka - A spicy mix of poached eggs in a flavorful tomato and bell pepper sauce, seasoned with cumin and chili. Often enjoyed for breakfast, it's traditionally made in a large skillet, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Falafel - Crunchy chickpea balls that are deep-fried to perfection, typically served in pita bread with pickled vegetables and tahini sauce. Street vendors often sell them as a quick lunch option, and it’s a go-to snack after a long day exploring Makkah.

Kabsah - Fragrant spiced rice with tender chicken and a blend of saffron, cardamom, and cloves, often garnished with almonds and raisins. Locals savor Kabsah during communal meals, especially on Fridays - it’s hearty enough to feed a large family.

Mandi - Chicken Rice Dish - A traditional dish of saffron-scented rice and marinated chicken, simmered to perfection in a pot, giving it a rich flavor. Usually served during celebrations, it’s often the centerpiece of family gatherings where everyone relishes the aroma and taste together.

Dates and Cheese - A surprisingly delightful combination of sweet dates stuffed with creamy cheese, creating a blend of textures and flavors. While it might seem unusual, this snack is often eaten during iftar in Ramadan and is a favorite among locals, providing a healthy energy boost.

Fattah - A seasonal dish made with layers of crispy bread, rice, and braised lamb, often topped with a garlicky yogurt sauce. Usually enjoyed during Eid celebrations, it represents tradition and often brings families together for a big feast.

Luqaimat - Sweet Dumplings - These golden pastries are crispy on the outside and soft inside, drizzled with date syrup. They are commonly served during Ramadan as a surprise addition to iftar, making them a sweet way to break the fast with family.

Qamar al-Din - قمر الدين (apricot juice) - A refreshing drink made from dried apricot, often enjoyed in Ramadan when it’s traditionally served at iftar. Locals love to sip on this, particularly in the heat of summer, and it’s often paired with dates for the perfect blend of tastes.

Arabic Coffee - قهوة عربية (lightly spiced coffee) - This traditional coffee is brewed with lightly roasted beans and flavored with cardamom, served in small cups. It's a staple during social gatherings and is typically accompanied by dates, with guests often being offered three refills—trust me, it’s considered polite to decline after the third!

Baklava - بقلاوة (sweet pastry) - Layers of thin pastry filled with nuts and soaked in a honey syrup, baklava is often enjoyed during festive occasions, especially Eid. It’s usually served at room temperature, and locals often savor it with a small cup of Arabic coffee afterward to balance the sweetness.

Ice Cream - بوظة (smooth, rich ice cream) - Known for its creamy texture, this local delight comes in various interesting flavors like rose or saffron, ideal for beating the heat. You’ll see plenty of locals indulging in this sweet treat during the hot afternoons, and it's often enjoyed at kiosks near the Haram.

Mamoul - معمول (date-filled cookies) - These crumbly cookies, filled with dates or nuts, are especially popular during weddings and religious celebrations. Served warm, they are often sprinkled with powdered sugar, and you'll sometimes find families making them together as a cherished tradition before festivities. By the way, they pair wonderfully with Arabic coffee!