Oman is a country that boasts a rich and diverse culinary heritage. Influenced by its location along the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, Omani cuisine is a blend of flavors and spices from India, Persia, and East Africa, with a unique Omani twist. From street food to fine dining, Oman offers visitors a wide range of dining experiences to choose from. Here is a guide to food and dining in Oman, including where to find the best eats, what to expect, and some of the most famous Omani foods.

Where to Dine Oman has a wide range of dining options, from street vendors and local cafes to fine-dining restaurants. Some of the best places to enjoy Omani food include:

1. Traditional Omani restaurants: These restaurants serve authentic Omani cuisine, including popular dishes such as shuwa, biryani, machboos, and khubz rakhal.
2. Seafood restaurants: With a long coastline along the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, seafood is a popular food item in Oman. Many seafood restaurants are located in coastal cities, such as Muscat, Salalah, and Sur.
3. International restaurants: Oman is a multicultural country, and as such, there are many international restaurants serving food from around the world. Visitors can find everything from Italian to Indian cuisine in Oman.
4. Street food: Oman has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling everything from shawarma and falafel to kebabs and Omani sweets.

Price Range The cost of dining in Oman varies depending on the type of restaurant and the location. Traditional Omani restaurants and street vendors offer the most affordable dining options, with meals costing around 1-5 OMR (2-13 USD). Seafood restaurants and international restaurants can be more expensive, with meals costing between 10-20 OMR (26-52 USD) per person.

What to Expect Dining in Oman is a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Traditional Omani restaurants often have a communal seating arrangement, where diners sit on the floor and share food from a large platter. Seafood restaurants offer a more formal dining experience, with tables and chairs, and a menu to choose from. International restaurants are more familiar to visitors, with table service and menus in English.

Famous Omani Foods Oman is known for its delicious and flavorful cuisine, with some dishes that are unique to the country. Here are some of the most famous Omani foods to try:

1. Shuwa: A traditional Omani dish that consists of slow-cooked lamb or goat, marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked in a pit oven.
2. Biryani: A rice dish made with basmati rice, meat (chicken or lamb), and a variety of spices, including saffron and cardamom.
3. Machboos: A rice dish that is similar to biryani, but with more tomatoes, onions, and spices.
4. Khubz rakhal: A type of Omani bread that is baked in a traditional oven and served with most Omani dishes.
5. Halwa: A sweet dessert that is made with sugar, clarified butter, and a variety of flavorings, such as rosewater or saffron.

In conclusion, Oman is a country with a diverse culinary scene that is sure to delight visitors. From traditional Omani dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its affordable prices and unique dining experiences, dining in Oman is an adventure in itself.