Oman, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, offers a culinary scene that mirrors its diversity and tradition. From the bustling streets of Muscat to the serene coastal towns, the Sultanate boasts a plethora of dining establishments that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler exploring the region, here are the top 10 restaurants in Oman that promise an unforgettable dining experience.
1. Bait Al Luban – Mutrah, Muscat
Situated near the historic Mutrah Corniche, Bait Al Luban is a culinary haven for those seeking authentic Omani flavors. Housed in a beautifully restored traditional Omani house, the restaurant offers a warm ambiance complemented by sea views. Signature dishes include the aromatic shuwa (slow-cooked lamb), flavorful lentil soup, and the house specialty, lobster biryani. To end your meal, indulge in the saffron-infused Omani halwa and a cup of traditional kahwa (Omani coffee) served with dates.
2. Kargeen Caffe – Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Kargeen Caffe offers a unique blend of traditional Omani and Middle Eastern cuisines in a cozy, garden-like setting. The outdoor seating, surrounded by lush greenery and lantern-lit ambiance, provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying dishes like shuwa, majboos (spiced rice with meat), and a variety of mezze platters.
3. The Pavilion – Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
For those seeking an upscale dining experience, The Pavilion at Al Bustan Palace offers gourmet international and seafood dishes with a view of the Arabian Sea. Highlights include grilled Omani lobster, tuna tartare, and wagyu beef, all served in a luxurious beachfront setting.
4. Ramssa – Qurum, Muscat
Ramssa is a relatively recent addition to Muscat’s dining scene, offering a variety of Middle Eastern dishes in a lamp-lit dining room filled with character. The menu features simply seasoned meat platters, including camel, chicken, and shrimp skewers, as well as the adventurous dried shark meat awaal with rice.
5. Zorba – The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
Zorba brings authentic Greek flavors to Muscat with a menu featuring hot and cold mezze dishes, charcoal-fired octopus, and ribeye steaks. The glazed terrace offers spectacular views of the sky and sea, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a meal while watching the sunset.
6. Essenza – Mandarin Oriental, Muscat
Essenza offers a Venetian culinary experience in the heart of Muscat. Under the guidance of Chef Davide Borin, the restaurant serves dishes like wagyu carpaccio, truffle-scented risotto, and creamy burrata. The Friday brunch, Un Sabato Italiano, features a leisurely spread of the restaurant’s finest dishes served against the golden backdrop of Shatti Al Qurum’s coastline.
7. Bait Al Bahr – Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
For seafood enthusiasts, Bait Al Bahr offers a dining experience that starts with the sea. Guests can climb aboard a traditional dhow to handpick their dinner fresh from the day’s catch, including snapper, sea bream, hamour, and shari. The restaurant’s location within the Shangri-La resort provides a picturesque setting for enjoying these fresh seafood dishes.
8. Lahab Kitchen Restaurant – Muscat
Lahab Kitchen is known for its hearty portions and traditional Omani dishes. The menu features smoky mishkek skewers, goat kebabs, and the flavorful chicken zurbian. A standout dish is the ‘meat gossy,’ an Iraqi cousin to traditional Omani shuwa, layering slow-cooked lamb over spiced rice.
9. Ba Ban – W Muscat
Ba Ban is the only restaurant in Oman ranked by the World’s 50 Best Discovery list. Located in W Muscat, the restaurant offers a glossy interior and a Chinese menu that includes dishes like Crouching Pumpkin dumplings stuffed with braised Peking duck and fragrant steamed Omani lobster. Desserts such as Earl Grey milk tea and strawberry condensed milk ice creams add a sweet ending to the meal.
10. The Jungle – Al Qurum, Muscat
The Jungle offers a unique dining experience with its tropical-themed décor, complete with waterfalls and animal sounds. The family-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a menu featuring dishes like mixed grill platters, Omani-style prawns, and signature mocktails.
Final Thoughts
Oman’s diverse culinary landscape offers a wealth of dining options that cater to every taste and preference. From traditional Omani dishes to international cuisines, the top 10 restaurants highlighted above provide exceptional dining experiences that showcase the rich flavors and hospitality of the Sultanate. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring these establishments promises a gastronomic journey that delights the senses and celebrates the art of fine dining.
