Whether you’re a tourist in the Sultanate or a resident, these winter months are perfect to walk around near the beach or marketplaces and enjoy a very different side of Oman. There are plenty of well-known fast-food joints dishing up everything from burgers to pizzas, but many hungry customers are searching for something with a bit more local flavour. More and more street vendors are popping up across Muscat and beyond, serving fast food Omani-style. Cafés by the side of the road have even installed hatches to dispense drive-through takeaway meals. Although street food is still niche, there are delicacies that leave you hungry for more! Here’s some of our top “street” food picks!
Falafel
A middle eastern speciality, falafels are a hot favourite amongst both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Cripsy and delicious, falafels can be found everywhere! From the fanciest of restaurants to the little, shoddy looking coffee shops — falafels are a great snack whether it’s wrapped in Arabic bread with mayonnaise and lettuce, or just by itself, just be sure to add a bit of tahini for that authentic taste. Added bonus? Falafels are vegan!
Mishkak
Grilled pieces of marinated chicken, beef, mutton or fish on long skewers is not only a popular barbeque dish but can also be found being sold along the beaches and parks. The perfect snack for when you’re on the move, these freshly grilled and well-marinated chunks of meat are not only tasty but also cheap. Individual vendors can be found fanning the flames of their grills at prime spots, serving mishkaak along with bread, a tangy hot sauce and sometimes chutney. It can be eaten straight off the stick or wrapped in khubus (or Arabic bread).
Shawarma
If it’s good enough for Marvel’s Avengers, then it’s definitely good enough of everybody else! Every kid and adult who has ever spent any time in the Middle East knows that there isn’t a replacement for good shawarma. The basic shawarma is made by wrapping Arabic bread around pieces of chicken, mutton or beef with French fries and tahini, an Arabic mayonnaise. Whilst some use a thinner wrap that is grilled to make crispy before serving, whilst others use the typical khubus bread. If you’re looking for a place to try it, be assured the first person you ask will guide you to their favourite joint hoping to share their love for this ever popular Arab delicacy.
The Omani Bread Crepe
A sweet or savoury delight (depending on your choice of filling), the Omani crepe has become very popular in the last few years. Paper-thin, crispy Omani bread called khubus rakhal is filled with cheese, honey or egg, or a combination of all three. Some café owners also sell the crepes with a spread of Nutella. Best enjoyed with chai karak, also known as Masala chai tea, crepes are mostly found in the little Karak tea shops dotted that can be found all around the capital.
Karak Chai
Okay, it isn’t “food” but it is a popular drink that is perfect, especially in the slight chill of the evening. Literally translating to strong tea, Karak chai or Karak is popular amongst the people in this region. Early morning, evening or night — most karak shops are packed with people waiting in their cars to pick up a tea on their way to their destination. Full of creamy milk and strong tea fragrance, it is the perfect blend of black tea, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Whether it joins them on a simple stroll with a loved one or while driving around and catching up with friends, this simple drink has become an integral part of local culture.
Titash Chakraborty
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