A Taste Of The Middle East: The Best Middle Eastern Food To Try On Your Next Trip

The Middle East is a treasure trove of flavours, offering a rich blend of culinary traditions influenced by centuries of history and diverse cultures. From savoury street food in Turkey to fragrant dishes in Oman, the region’s food scene is as varied as its landscapes. 

Whether savouring traditional Egyptian meals by the Nile or indulging in the bold spices of Saudi Arabian cuisine, there’s a unique dish and experience for every traveller to explore. Discover today some of the best Middle Eastern food to try on your next trip to the Middle East.

Oman: Try Some Of The Best Middle Eastern Food Like Majboos

Travelling to new countries is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture and food is often at the heart of these experiences. When you taste a country’s cuisine, you’re enjoying its flavours whilst learning about its history, traditions, and way of life. 

In Oman, for instance, Middle Eastern food plays a significant role in bringing people together, especially during special events. One of the most notable dishes in Omani cuisine is Majboos, a fragrant, spiced rice dish often served with chicken, lamb, or fish. Majboos are a staple at weddings, engagements, and other important family gatherings, symbolising the hospitality Omani people are known for.

The dish is prepared with a unique blend of spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, which give it its distinctive aroma and rich flavour. For travellers, sampling Majboos is more than just a meal; it’s a window into Oman’s heritage and how locals celebrate important moments in life.

Beyond traditional home-cooked meals, Oman’s capital, Muscat, offers a growing modern food scene where old meets new in innovative ways. One of the most popular dining spots in the city is Bait Al Luban, a restaurant that has gained a reputation for offering authentic Omani dishes in a stylish, contemporary setting. 

Located by the sea, the restaurant provides a taste of Omani cuisine and offers stunning views, making it a favourite among locals and visitors. Dining at Bait Al Luban is a great way for visitors to enjoy traditional flavours while experiencing the evolution of Oman’s culinary landscape, where modern trends are seamlessly blended with time-honoured Middle Eastern food and recipes.

Turkey: Street Foods and Scenic Dining

Turkey is a paradise for street food lovers, where traditional Middle Eastern food and flavours meet convenience in the bustling streets of cities like Istanbul. Turkish street food reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences, making it an essential part of the daily experience for locals and visitors. One great Turkish food to try is the snack food simit, a sesame-coated bread ring often sold by street vendors and enjoyed with tea. Another must-try is kumpir, a loaded baked potato filled with toppings like cheese, olives, and vegetables—perfect for a quick and hearty bite.

Of course, no exploration of Turkish street food would be complete without the iconic doner kebab. This succulent, marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita or flatbread with fresh vegetables and sauces. 

For those seeking a more scenic dining experience to try new Middle Eastern food, a Bosphorus night dinner cruise is the perfect way to enjoy Turkey’s culinary delights and take in the stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline. These cruises offer a chance to sample a range of traditional Turkish dishes, from mezze to baklava, all while sailing along one of the most iconic waterways in the world.

Egypt: Traditional Flavors and Riverside Dining

One of the most celebrated dishes in Egypt is Ful Medames, a humble yet delicious breakfast made from slow-cooked fava beans, often seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and cumin. This dish is a staple of Egyptian cuisine, commonly enjoyed with warm bread and various sides like pickles and eggs. Ful Medames holds a special place in the hearts of Egyptians and is not only found in homes but also sold at street stalls across the country. 

For travellers, tasting Ful Medames is more than just enjoying a simple meal—it’s a way to connect with the everyday life of Egyptians. The dish tells the story of a country that values simplicity and flavour in its food, as well as the sense of community that comes with sharing meals.

Egypt also has some of the best Middle Eastern food experiences that pair its traditional cuisine with breathtaking views. A Nile River dinner cruise is one of the most memorable ways to dine in Egypt, offering a serene backdrop of the Nile while savouring traditional Egyptian foods such as grilled meats, stuffed vegetables, and mezze. As guests sail past Cairo’s glowing skyline, they can enjoy the flavours of Egypt in an unforgettable setting.

Saudi Arabia: Experience Incredible Middle Eastern Food

Saudi Arabia’s food scene is a fascinating blend of time-honoured traditions and modern culinary innovation, offering a rich and diverse tourist experience. At the heart of Saudi cuisine is Kabsa, a beloved spiced rice dish typically served with lamb, chicken, or fish. 

Often considered the national dish, Kabsa is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of the country’s rich culinary heritage. Its fragrant blend of spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, paired with slow-cooked meats, makes it a flavorful centrepiece at family gatherings and celebratory feasts.

However, Saudi Arabia’s culinary landscape is not limited to tradition. The country has become a hub for food enthusiasts looking to explore both local flavours and contemporary global trends. One of the most exciting events of the year to check out is the Saudi Food Show held in Riyadh. 

This dynamic event showcases a blend of traditional Saudi dishes like Jareesh, alongside international culinary influences, highlighting the country’s growing appreciation for innovation in the kitchen. The show brings together chefs and food lovers from all over the world, allowing visitors to experience the evolution of Saudi cuisine in an exciting and interactive way.

For visitors, exploring the Middle Eastern food scene in Saudi Arabia offers the chance to experience a unique fusion of ancient flavours and modern culinary trends. Whether enjoying a traditional dish like Kabsa in a family-style setting or attending a food festival where global cuisine meets Saudi classics, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how the country’s food is evolving in step with its culture and society.