Oman is an Arabian jewel combining ancient forts, pristine wadis, and dramatic desert landscapes. From the bustling souqs of Muscat to the frankincense trails of Salalah, this sultanate offers authentic Arabian experiences with world-class hospitality.
Omani cuisine reflects centuries of maritime trade, blending Middle Eastern, Indian, and East African influences. Slow-cooked meats spiced with cardamom, dried lime (loomi), saffron, and rose water characterize the cuisine. Rice is the staple, often enriched with spices and served with grilled fish, tender lamb, or the legendary shuwa — slow-cooked meat buried underground for 24 hours.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Oman.
Shuwa
Oman's most iconic dish — whole lamb or goat marinated in a paste of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked in an underground sand pit for 24-48 hours. The result is incredibly tender, smoky, and deeply flavored meat served on rice.
Where to try: Ubhar restaurant, traditional Omani homes during Eid celebrations
Price: OMR 8-15 per portion
Harees
Ancient dish of slow-cooked wheat and meat beaten to a smooth porridge-like consistency, seasoned with clarified butter and cumin. Comforting and filling, it has been eaten in Oman for centuries.
Where to try: Ubhar, Bait Al Luban, traditional Ramadan iftars
Price: OMR 2-5
Mashuai (Grilled Seerfish with Lemon Rice)
Whole seerfish (kingfish) grilled over charcoal served with tangy lemon-infused rice. The national dish of Oman showcasing the country's deep seafood heritage and the unique loomi (dried lime) flavoring.
Where to try: Al Bahar Restaurant, local seafood restaurants near fish markets
Price: OMR 4-10
Qahwa (Omani Coffee) and Dates
Omani coffee flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rose water served lukewarm in small handleless cups alongside premium Omani dates. The foundation of every social interaction and act of hospitality in Oman.
Where to try: Offered everywhere from souqs to hotel lobbies; authentic at traditional coffee houses
Price: OMR 0.5-2
Halwa
Dense, jewel-colored sweet made from sugar, eggs, butter, rose water, saffron, and cardamom. Each Omani family has their own recipe. Available in distinctive wooden boxes making excellent gifts.
Where to try: Halwa shops throughout Oman, Mutrah Souq, duty-free at airport
Price: OMR 2-10 per box
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
The Beach Restaurant
Award-winning beachfront fine dining at The Chedi Muscat with sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine, extensive wine list, and impeccable service. Romantic candlelit tables on the sand.
The Chedi Muscat, North Ghubra 32
Ubhar
Modern Omani restaurant celebrating local ingredients and traditional recipes. Contemporary setting with focus on regional specialties and warm hospitality.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Bin Ateeq
Local favorite chain serving traditional Omani cuisine at affordable prices. Famous for breakfast items, grills, and authentic local atmosphere. Multiple locations across Muscat.
Multiple locations, Muscat
Hilal Burger
Legendary local burger joint serving massive burgers with special sauce since 1978. Late-night favorite with cult following among locals and expats.
Al Hail North, Muscat
Yiti Cafe
Trendy beachside cafe in Yiti village serving excellent coffee, healthy breakfasts, and light meals. Stunning beach views and relaxed atmosphere.
Yiti Beach, Muscat
Al Angham
Royal Opera House's signature restaurant serving elevated traditional Omani cuisine in elegant setting. Authentic recipes with modern presentation and theatrical ambiance.
Royal Opera House, Shati Al Qurm
Kargeen Caffe
Popular garden restaurant with traditional Omani ambiance, shisha, and affordable Middle Eastern cuisine. Lush outdoor seating areas and family-friendly atmosphere.
Madinat As Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Fairooz Restaurant
Popular local restaurant serving traditional Omani and Middle Eastern dishes. Known for generous portions, reasonable prices, and authentic local flavors.
Al Hail South, Muscat
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Indian
Kabab Hut
Small roadside eatery serving exceptional seekh kebabs, rolls, and biryani. Minimal seating but maximum flavor at rock-bottom prices.
Ruwi, Muscat
Mumtaz Mahal
Upscale Indian restaurant serving authentic North Indian and Mughlai cuisine. Tandoor specialties, rich curries, and elegant Mughal-inspired decor.
Mutrah, Muscat
Zafran
Contemporary Indian dining at Shangri-La with modern interpretations of regional dishes. Open kitchen, spice bar, and waterfront terrace seating.
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah
Cafe
Argan by Moreish
Popular cafe chain with excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and all-day breakfast menu. Comfortable seating and consistent quality across locations.
Multiple locations, Muscat
The Coffee Republic
Popular local cafe chain with good coffee, free WiFi, and comfortable seating. Reliable option for remote work or casual meetings.
Multiple locations, Muscat
International
Khargeen
Garden restaurant at Crowne Plaza featuring lush outdoor terrace dining. International menu with Middle Eastern influences in romantic setting with water features.
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC, Madinat Al Irfan
D'Arcy's Kitchen
Popular expat hangout serving comfort food including steaks, burgers, fish and chips, and Sunday roast. Sports bar atmosphere with live sports screenings.
Madinat As Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Italian
Tuscany
Sophisticated Italian fine dining at Grand Hyatt with authentic flavors, homemade pastas, imported ingredients, and elegant ambiance. Extensive Italian wine selection.
Grand Hyatt Muscat, Shatti Al Qurum
Woodfire Restaurant
Casual pizzeria with wood-fired oven creating authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. Fresh ingredients, fast service, and family-friendly environment.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Lebanese
Automatic Restaurant
Long-established Lebanese restaurant with three branches in Muscat. Famous for shawarma, grills, and fresh mezze. Consistent quality and value.
Multiple locations, Muscat
Lebanese Mill Restaurant
Popular Lebanese restaurant known for mezze platters, fresh bread from on-site bakery, and authentic grills. Great value family dining.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Middle Eastern
Shawarma House
No-frills shawarma stand with fresh meat cooked on vertical spit. Quick service, generous portions, unbeatable prices. Multiple locations.
Multiple locations, Muscat
Sultanah
Contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine at W Muscat with innovative twists on regional classics. Stylish interior and creative cocktail program.
W Muscat, Shatti Al Qurum
Omani
Al Makan Restaurant
Traditional Omani restaurant with majlis-style seating and authentic home-cooked flavors. Popular with locals for family meals and special occasions.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Shuwa Express
Fast-casual restaurant specializing in traditional Omani shuwa served modern cafeteria-style. Quick service, authentic flavors, affordable prices.
Madinat As Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Specialty Coffee
Copper Coffee Roasters
Artisan coffee roastery and cafe serving single-origin beans and expert brews. Minimalist design, serious about coffee, light breakfast and pastries.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Mokha 1450
Local specialty coffee shop roasting beans in-house. Knowledgeable baristas, excellent single-origin options, and minimalist design.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Thai
Mint & Coco
Contemporary Thai restaurant with fresh flavors, modern presentation, and trendy atmosphere. Popular for lunch and dinner with reasonable prices.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Thai Wok
Casual Thai restaurant with quick service and authentic flavors. Perfect for takeaway or casual dining with generous portions.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Arabic Cafe
Mazaj Cafe
Modern Arabic cafe serving traditional coffee, fresh juices, and Middle Eastern breakfast items. Stylish interior with majlis seating areas.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Bakery
Magnolia Bakery & Cafe
Charming bakery and cafe with homemade cakes, cookies, sandwiches, and coffee. Cozy atmosphere perfect for meetings or relaxed coffee break.
Madinat As Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Brazilian
Samba Brazilian Steakhouse
Premium rodizio churrascaria experience at Shangri-La with endless carved meats, extensive salad bar, and theatrical presentation. Perfect for meat lovers.
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah
Coffee Chain
Starbucks Reserve
Premium Starbucks location at The Wave offering reserve coffees, extended food menu, and beautiful waterfront terrace seating.
The Wave Muscat
Fast Food
Chips Oman
Local fast food chain serving burgers, fried chicken, and loaded fries. Better quality than international chains at lower prices.
Multiple locations, Muscat
French
Left Bank
Charming French bistro at Al Mouj with authentic Parisian atmosphere. Classic French dishes, excellent wine list, and waterfront location.
Al Mouj, Muscat
Fresh Juices
Juice World
Fresh juice stands throughout Muscat serving incredible fruit juices, smoothies, and sugar cane juice. Perfect refreshment in the heat.
Multiple locations, Muscat
Gourmet Cafe
Cafe Bateel
Upscale cafe famous for premium dates, Arabic coffee, and gourmet Mediterranean food. Elegant setting with outdoor terrace.
Oman Avenues Mall, Muscat
Health Cafe
Hummingbird Cafe
Health-focused cafe serving smoothie bowls, fresh juices, salads, and organic coffee. Bright, cheerful atmosphere popular with fitness crowd.
Al Mouj, Muscat
International Buffet
The Restaurant
All-day dining buffet restaurant at The Chedi featuring international stations, live cooking, and themed nights. Extensive selection and quality ingredients.
The Chedi Muscat, North Ghubra 32
International Cafe
Shakespeare and Co
French-inspired bistro chain with eclectic menu spanning breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Charming vintage decor and extensive menu pleasing all tastes.
The Wave Muscat
International Fine Dining
Mokha Café
Elegant restaurant at Al Bustan Palace serving international cuisine with Arabic influences. Sophisticated atmosphere, live cooking stations, and impeccable service.
Al Bustan Palace, Al Bustan St
International Street Food
Ruwi Street Food Stalls
Collection of evening food stalls in Ruwi offering Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino street food. Authentic, cheap, and popular with workers.
Ruwi High Street, Muscat
Multi
Lulu Hypermarket Food Court
Massive food court with dozens of stalls serving cuisines from around the world. Rock-bottom prices and vast selection under one air-conditioned roof.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Omani Street Food
Al Mandoos Cafe
Small traditional cafe serving Omani breakfast items and coffee. Popular morning spot for locals getting mandoos (Omani bread) and halwa.
Mutrah, Muscat
Persian
Shiraz Restaurant
Authentic Persian cuisine with traditional decor, live music, and generous portions. Famous kebabs, stews, and saffron rice dishes.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Polynesian
Trader Vic's
Tiki-themed restaurant serving Polynesian and Asian fusion cuisine. Famous mai tais, wood-fired oven dishes, and fun tropical atmosphere.
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC
Traditional Omani
Bait Al Luban
Upscale Omani restaurant in restored traditional house overlooking Mutrah harbor. Authentic local dishes with rooftop terrace and stunning harbor views.
Mutrah Corniche, Muscat
Turkish
Turkish House Restaurant
Authentic Turkish cuisine in elegant setting with imported ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Famous for kebabs, mezze, and baklava.
Al Khuwair, Muscat
Food tours & tastings in Oman
Eat your way through Oman with a guide.
Browse food experiences in OmanWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Shawarma
Lebanese-style shawarma with marinated chicken or lamb in flatbread with garlic sauce is ubiquitous throughout Muscat. The Lebanese chain Automatic Restaurant is most popular for late-night shawarma.
Find it at: Shawarma stalls throughout Ruwi, Muttrah, and all neighborhoods
Indian Canteen Biryani
Excellent value South Indian and Pakistani biryani rice dishes served in no-frills canteens in the Ruwi commercial district. Large portions of spiced rice with chicken, mutton, or fish for under OMR 2.
Find it at: Ruwi CBD canteens, Al Wattayah area
Fresh Juice and Sugarcane
Fresh-pressed juice bars serving sugarcane juice, mango, tamarind, and mixed tropical juices are scattered throughout Muscat neighborhoods. Refreshing and safe to drink.
Find it at: Juice stalls throughout Ruwi, Muttrah Souq area, Qurum beach
Omani Khubz (Bread)
Thin flatbread baked in traditional clay ovens, sold fresh at bakeries in the early morning. Best eaten warm with date syrup or alongside morning eggs at a local canteen.
Find it at: Traditional bakeries in Ruwi and old Muscat neighborhoods
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Al Seeb Fish Market
Muscat's main working fish market where fishermen auction the morning catch of tuna, grouper, seerfish, and shellfish. Authentic local atmosphere best at 5-7 AM when the auction is in full swing.
Hours: 5:00-9:00 AM daily
Mutrah Souq Spice Section
Within the covered souq, a dedicated spice section sells saffron, cardamom, dried limes (loomi), frankincense, rose water, and the spice blends used in Omani cooking. Educational and aromatic.
Hours: 8:00-13:00 and 16:00-21:00 Sat-Thu
Al Mawaleh Central Market
Large covered produce market popular with local residents for fresh vegetables, herbs, and imported produce at wholesale prices. Less touristy and more authentic than souq shopping.
Hours: 6:00-14:00 daily
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Most Omani restaurants are open until midnight or later — dinner is typically eaten late, after 8:30 PM for locals
Alcohol is only available in licensed hotel restaurants — BYO is not permitted and public consumption is illegal
Restaurants in Oman accommodate prayer times — service pauses during call to prayer (around 30-45 minutes) at traditional establishments
During Ramadan all restaurants are closed during daylight hours but spectacular iftar buffets are available at hotels from sunset
Tipping is not mandatory but 10-15% is appreciated at sit-down restaurants — check the bill as some add a service charge
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | OMR 1.5-5/meal | Indian and Pakistani canteens, shawarma stalls, local Omani restaurants |
| Mid-range | OMR 8-20/meal | International restaurants, hotel casual dining, modern Omani restaurants |
| Upscale | OMR 30-80+/meal | Hotel fine dining, The Chedi restaurants, rooftop restaurant experiences |