Food History at Al Mahatta Museum, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Al Mahatta Museum is a historical site located in Sharjah, famously known as the first airport in the United Arab Emirates. The museum itself is a treasure trove of aviation history, displaying the development of air travel in the region. As for the food history in this area, it is shaped by a blend of Middle Eastern and Asian influences, due to Sharjah's diverse population and its history as a trading port. The local cuisine often features a mix of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and even East African flavors, revealing the emirate's rich cultural tapestry.
Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes for Tourists
1. Shawarma: Non-veg
A Middle Eastern favorite, consisting of marinated chicken or lamb shaved from a spit and wrapped in a flatbread with vegetables and sauce.
2. Hummus: Veg
A creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Falafel: Veg
Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, often served in a pita or with dips.
4. Fattoush: Veg
A Levantine bread salad made with mixed greens, fresh vegetables, and crispy pieces of pita bread tossed with a tangy dressing.
5. Tabbouleh: Veg
A refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, onion, bulgur (cracked wheat), and seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil.
6. Kibbeh: Non-veg
A traditional Lebanese dish typically made with ground lamb, bulgur, and spices, shaped into balls or patties and then fried or baked.
7. Umm Ali: Veg
An Egyptian bread pudding dessert made with puff pastry, milk, sugar, and a mix of nuts and raisins.
8. Grilled Halloumi: Veg
A semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, and sometimes also cow's milk, often grilled or fried.
9. Manakish: Veg
A popular Levantine food consisting of dough topped with thyme, cheese, or ground meat, similar to a pizza.
10. Al Harees: Non-veg
A traditional Emirati dish made with wheat, meat, and a pinch of salt, slow-cooked in a clay pot until it reaches a smooth, porridge-like consistency.
Top Famous Restaurants in Al Mahatta Museum, Sharjah
1. Al Bait Sharjah
Address: Heart of Sharjah - Sharjah
Famous Food: Arabic Mezze (Veg)
2. Shakespeare and Co.
Address: Al Qasba - Sharjah
Famous Food: Grilled Salmon (Non-veg)
3. Sultan Saray
Address: Corniche Street - Sharjah
Famous Food: Turkish Kebabs (Non-veg)
4. Paper Fig Desserts
Address: University City Rd - Sharjah
Famous Food: Dessert Collection (Veg)
5. Sanobar
Address: Al Khan - Sharjah
Famous Food: Seafood Platter (Non-veg)
6. El Manza Restaurant
Address: Al Majaz Waterfront - Sharjah
Famous Food: Moroccan Tagine (Non-veg)
7. Gazebo Restaurant
Address: Al Qasba - Sharjah
Famous Food: Dum Biryani (Non-veg)
8. Aroos Damascus
Address: Al Madina Street - Sharjah
Famous Food: Mixed Grill (Non-veg)
9. Mumbai Spices
Address: Al Nahda - Sharjah
Famous Food: Paneer Tikka (Veg)
10. Ratios Coffee
Address: Muwaileh - Sharjah
Famous Food: Lotus Pancake (Veg)
Remember to check the current address and operating hours of these restaurants before planning a visit, as they may change over time.