Salalah Best Restaurants You Must Try
Salalah, the pictures coastal city in Oman, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its diverse culinary scene. As the city continues to grow as a tourist destination, its restaurant offerings have expanded to cater to various tastes and preferences. In 2024, visitors and locals alike will find an array of dining options that showcase both traditional Omani cuisine and international flavors. This guide presents the top 10 Salalah best restaurants that food enthusiasts must try during their visit to this enchanting city.
Al Fanar Restaurant
Al Fanar Restaurant stands out as one of Salalah’s top restaurants, offering an authentic Omani dining experience. Located in the heart of the city, this establishment has gained a reputation for its traditional dishes and warm hospitality. The restaurant’s interior reflects Omani culture with its intricate decorations and comfortable seating arrangements.
Visitors to Al Fanar can savor a wide range of local specialties. The menu features popular Omani dishes such as Shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish that melts in the mouth, and Mashakik, skewered and grilled meat seasoned with aromatic spices. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh catch of the day, often prepared with a blend of local herbs and spices.
One of the highlights of dining at Al Fanar is the opportunity to try Qahwa, traditional Omani coffee served with dates. This beverage is an integral part of Omani culture and hospitality. The restaurant also offers a selection of refreshing fruit juices and teas to complement the meal.
Dolphin Beach Restaurant
For those seeking a dining experience with a view, Dolphin Beach Restaurant is a must-visit destination. Situated along Salalah’s beautiful coastline, this restaurant provides patrons with breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Sea while they enjoy their meals.
The menu at Dolphin Beach Restaurant is a fusion of international and local cuisines. Seafood takes center stage here, with an impressive array of fresh fish, prawns, and lobster dishes. The chefs skillfully prepare these oceanic delights using both traditional Omani recipes and contemporary cooking techniques.
One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is the grilled seafood platter, which offers a variety of fish and shellfish, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. For those who prefer land-based options, the restaurant also serves excellent grilled meats and vegetarian dishes.
The ambiance at Dolphin Beach Restaurant is relaxed and inviting, making it ideal for both romantic dinners and family outings. The sound of waves crashing on the shore adds to the overall dining experience, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the delicious food.
Oasis Club
Oasis Club has established itself as one of Salalah’s top restaurants, particularly for those looking for a more upscale dining experience. This elegant establishment is part of the Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah and offers a sophisticated atmosphere along with exceptional cuisine.
The restaurant’s menu is a carefully curated selection of international dishes with a focus on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Diners can start their meal with appetizers like hummus, tabbouleh, or a selection of mezze platters. For the main course, the restaurant offers a range of options including grilled meats, fresh seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
One of the standout features of Oasis Club is its extensive wine list, which complements the diverse menu. The restaurant also has a talented team of mixologists who can create both classic and innovative cocktails to enhance the dining experience.
The interior of Oasis Club is tastefully decorated, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space during the day, while in the evening, soft lighting creates a more intimate ambiance. The restaurant also features an outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy their meals al fresco, taking in the beautiful surroundings of the resort.
Bayt Al Khonji
Bayt Al Khonji is a hidden gem among Salalah’s best restaurants, offering a unique dining experience in a traditional Omani setting. Housed in a restored old Omani house, this restaurant provides visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region while serving delicious local cuisine.
The menu at Bayt Al Khonji focuses on authentic Omani dishes, prepared using time-honored recipes and cooking methods. Diners can enjoy specialties such as Harees, a savory porridge-like dish made with wheat and meat, or Kabsa, a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and a blend of aromatic spices.
One of the highlights of dining at Bayt Al Khonji is the opportunity to experience a traditional Omani majlis-style seating arrangement. Guests can choose to sit on comfortable cushions on the floor, adding to the authentic atmosphere of the restaurant.
The restaurant also offers cooking classes for those interested in learning more about Omani cuisine. These classes provide hands-on experience in preparing local dishes and offer insights into the cultural significance of various ingredients and cooking techniques.
Al Mina Restaurant
Al Mina Restaurant, located in the Salalah Rotana Resort, has earned its place among Salalah’s top restaurants with its diverse menu and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. This all-day dining venue offers a perfect blend of international and local cuisines, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
The restaurant is known for its extensive buffet spreads, which feature live cooking stations where chefs prepare dishes to order. This interactive dining experience allows guests to customize their meals and watch as their food is freshly prepared. The buffet offerings change regularly, ensuring that even frequent visitors will always find something new to try.
For those who prefer à la carte dining, Al Mina offers a menu that includes a variety of international dishes as well as local Omani specialties. The restaurant’s seafood selection is particularly noteworthy, with fresh catches from the nearby ocean prepared in various styles.
The interior of Al Mina is spacious and modern, with large windows that offer panoramic views of the resort’s pools and the ocean beyond. The restaurant also features an outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy their meals while taking in the sea breeze and stunning vistas.
Silk Road Restaurant
Silk Road Restaurant, situated in the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, is a culinary destination that takes diners on a journey along the historic Silk Road trade route. This elegant establishment offers a unique dining experience that combines flavors from various Asian cuisines with Middle Eastern influences.
The menu at Silk Road is a carefully curated selection of dishes inspired by the countries along the ancient Silk Road. Diners can savor Chinese dim sum, Thai curries, Indian tandoori specialties, and Middle Eastern mezze all in one meal. The restaurant’s chefs skillfully blend traditional recipes with modern cooking techniques to create innovative and flavorful dishes.
One of the highlights of dining at Silk Road is the restaurant’s signature hot pot experience. Guests can choose from a variety of broths and ingredients to create their own customized hot pot meal, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.
The interior of Silk Road is designed to evoke the exotic ambiance of the Silk Road, with rich fabrics, intricate patterns, and warm lighting creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant also features an open kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work and adding to the overall sensory experience.
The Beach Grill & Bar
For those seeking a casual yet refined dining experience by the sea, The Beach Grill & Bar is one of Salalah’s best restaurants. Located at the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, this beachfront eatery offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea along with a menu that celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant specializes in grilled dishes, with a focus on seafood and meats. Diners can choose from a selection of fresh fish and shellfish, which are grilled to perfection and served with a variety of sauces and sides. For meat lovers, the menu includes premium cuts of beef, lamb, and chicken, all prepared on the grill to enhance their natural flavors.
One of the unique features of The Beach Grill & Bar is its “catch of the day” option, where guests can select their preferred fish from the daily catch and have it prepared to their liking. This ensures the freshest possible seafood experience and allows diners to try local varieties they may not find elsewhere.
The restaurant’s bar offers an extensive list of cocktails, mocktails, and wines to complement the meal. The skilled bartenders can create both classic and innovative drinks, many of which incorporate local fruits and herbs for a truly Omani twist.
The setting of The Beach Grill & Bar is casual yet elegant, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The outdoor terrace is particularly popular, allowing guests to dine under the stars with the sound of waves in the background.
Darbat Restaurant
Darbat Restaurant has made a name for itself as one of Salalah’s top restaurants by offering a unique blend of traditional Omani cuisine and international flavors. Named after the famous Darbat waterfall in the Dhofar region, this restaurant aims to provide a dining experience that is as refreshing and memorable as its namesake.
The menu at Darbat Restaurant showcases the best of Omani cuisine while also incorporating dishes from around the world. Diners can start their meal with local appetizers such as Samboosa (savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables) or Mishkak (grilled meat skewers). For the main course, the restaurant offers a range of options including traditional Omani dishes like Shuwa and Kabsa, as well as international favorites like steaks and pasta dishes.
One of the standout features of Darbat Restaurant is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This not only ensures the freshness of the dishes but also supports local farmers and producers. The restaurant’s chefs often incorporate seasonal ingredients into their specials, providing diners with a taste of what’s currently in season in the Dhofar region.
The interior of Darbat Restaurant is designed to reflect the natural beauty of Salalah, with earthy tones and elements inspired by the local landscape. The dining area is spacious and comfortable, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and larger group gatherings.
Al Hosn Restaurant
Al Hosn Restaurant, located in the Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, has established itself as one of Salalah’s best restaurants by offering a diverse culinary experience in an elegant setting. This all-day dining venue caters to a wide range of tastes with its international buffet and à la carte options.
The restaurant’s buffet is a highlight, featuring an impressive array of dishes from various cuisines. Diners can sample everything from Middle Eastern mezze and Indian curries to European roasts and Asian stir-fries. The buffet also includes a dedicated section for local Omani dishes, allowing visitors to explore the flavors of the region.
For those who prefer à la carte dining, Al Hosn offers a menu that combines international favorites with local specialties. The restaurant’s chefs take pride in their ability to cater to different dietary requirements, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
One of the unique features of Al Hosn Restaurant is its themed nights, which occur regularly throughout the week. These special evenings focus on specific cuisines or ingredients, providing diners with an opportunity to explore different culinary traditions in depth.
The interior of Al Hosn Restaurant is spacious and well-lit, with large windows offering views of the resort’s lush gardens. The decor combines modern elements with traditional Omani touches, creating a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere.
Haffa House Restaurant
Rounding out our list of Salalah’s top restaurants is Haffa House Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Omani cuisine and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers visitors a genuine taste of Omani culinary traditions in a casual and friendly environment.
The menu at Haffa House Restaurant focuses on traditional Omani dishes, many of which have been passed down through generations. Diners can enjoy classics like Maqbous (spiced rice with meat), Harees (wheat and meat porridge), and a variety of grilled meats and seafood dishes. The restaurant is particularly known for its Shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish that is a staple of Omani cuisine.
One of the unique aspects of dining at Haffa House Restaurant is the opportunity to try local beverages such as Laban (a savory yogurt drink) and various herbal teas that are popular in the region. The restaurant also serves a selection of fresh fruit juices, perfect for refreshing oneself in Salalah’s warm climate.
The atmosphere at Haffa House Restaurant is relaxed and welcoming, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The interior is decorated with traditional Omani elements, creating an authentic ambiance that complements the cuisine.
In conclusion, Salalah’s restaurant scene offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from upscale establishments in luxury resorts to local eateries serving authentic Omani cuisine. These top 10 restaurants represent the best of what Salalah has to offer in terms of culinary delights, ambiance, and service. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner with a view, a family-friendly buffet, or an authentic local meal, Salalah’s best restaurants have something to satisfy every palate. As you explore this beautiful city, be sure to include these dining destinations in your itinerary for a truly memorable gastronomic journey.