Shawarma is an Arabic traditional food that originated in Turkey consisting of meats and vegetables, wrapped in a flatbread and served in a street-style fashion. There are many variations to this meaty delight, from Egyptian to Lebanese Shawarmas, and in Oman, they love them all. Each type has its own extraordinary taste. This unique taste cannot be prepared at home yet it has that homemade feel to it.
With countless joints selling this meaty escapade, picking the best place can become a daunting task for new visitors in town or those who recently joined the shawarma club. Here are five places you need to try in Muscat.
1. Baba Salem
Known for its laid-back ambience and lip-smacking shawarma wraps. This Turkish diner has some of the best Shawarmas in town and is considered one of the local favourite. If you are on the lookout for a good old, moms-and-pops kind of place, then come here. Their shawarma platter for one is massive, so sharing is caring.
Location: Al Qurum, Muscat
Contact: +968 9455 5570
Timings: 10.30am to 2.00am
2. Arax
Arax is a Lebanese restaurant that serves delicious shawarma wraps bedded on delectable condiments, tahini sauces and pickled cucumbers, making it perfect savoury treat for lunch or dinner. Make sure to mingle with the jolly chefs, they are the friendliest.
Location: Oasis Center, Shatti Al Qurum
Contact: +968 2456 5839
Timing: 9.00am – 11.30pm
3. On The Wood
Another restaurant that serves Lebanese cuisine makes it to our list of best shawarma places. On The Wood is a unique place in that it offers a variety of dishes beautifully prepared, presented and packaged for your indulgence. Their chicken shawarma is a must-try, as well as their cheesy oven-baked flatbreads.
Location: Al Mouj Street, Muscat; Shatti Al Qurum, Qurum
Contact:+968 2427 1444
Timings: 8.00am – 12.30am
4. Old Turkish
This Turkish joint is one of the oldest and most popular in Muscat, known for having the best chicken shawarma in town. They also serve a variety of sandwiches and grills, but their thinly sliced shawarma remains the star of the show. Their busy ambience in Al Khuwair adds a lovely character to the place. A must-visit.
Location: Al Khuwair, Bousher
Contact: +968 2448 7822
Timing: 8.30am – 4.00am
5. The Turkish House
Turkish House is famous for its grilled fish that tastes impeccably delicious, but it also serves amazing shawarma. Similar to Baba Salem and Old Turkish in many ways, but their ambience is slightly less crowded. A perfect spot for those seeking a quieter place. As for their meaty treats, very enjoyable, very palatable.
