Must-Try Foods In Bilad Sur Castle (Sur) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bilad Sur Castle, Sur, Oman

The history of Bilad Sur Castle is closely tied to the maritime heritage of Sur, a town known for its dhow shipbuilding and as a bustling port in the past. The cuisine in this region has been heavily influenced by the various cultures that have traded with and passed through Sur over the centuries. This includes influences from Indian, African, and Persian culinary traditions. The coastal location of Sur means that seafood has always been a staple in local diets, and the harsh desert climate has shaped the use of preserved ingredients and spices in their cooking. Bilad Sur Castle itself would have been a place where these diverse influences could be seen, as the residents and visitors in the past would have brought with them a variety of food traditions.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sur, Oman

1. Shuwa - This festive Omani dish involves marinating meat such as lamb or goat (non-veg) in spices and then slow-cooking it in an underground sand oven. It’s a savory experience that’s unique to the region.
2. Grilled Fish - Given Sur's coastal location, fresh fish (non-veg) is grilled with local spices and served with rice or flatbreads. Common fish include kingfish, tuna, and mackerel.
3. Majboos - Also known as Kabsa, this dish (non-veg) features rice seasoned with saffron, cooked with meat (usually chicken), and a blend of spices.
4. Mashuai - A dish (non-veg) consisting of roasted kingfish served with savoury rice and a tangy lemon sauce.
5. Maqbous - This is an Omani version of a spiced rice dish (non-veg), cooked with sautéed onions, tomatoes, and often includes chicken.
6. Harees - A traditional Omani wheat-based porridge combined with meat (non-veg), which is slow-cooked and beaten to a creamy consistency.
7. Falafel - These deep-fried chickpea balls are a popular vegetarian option often served with salads and dips or in pita sandwiches.
8. Sabzi - A vegetarian curry dish made with mixed vegetables, spices, and sometimes lentils or chickpeas.
9. Halwa - A sweet dessert made from roasted semolina or wheat mixed with rosewater, nuts, and cardamom.
10. Khareef Salalah - Coconut milk cake that is flavored with cardamom and saffron, offering a sweet and tropical vegetarian taste of Omani cuisine.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sur, Oman

1. Zaki Restaurant

   Address: Al Ayjah, Sur, Oman

   Famous Food: Shawarma (non-veg), Mixed Grill (non-veg), Falafel (veg)

2. Sur Beach Hotel Restaurant

   Address: Al Ayjah Plaza, Sur, Oman

   Famous Food: Seafood Platter (non-veg), Biryani (non-veg)

3. Al Fannah Seafood Restaurant

   Address: Sur Corniche, Sur, Oman

   Famous Food: Sultan Ibrahim Fish (non-veg), Seafood Soup (non-veg)

4. Bahry Restaurant

   Address: Sur to Muscat Coastal Road, Sur, Oman

   Famous Food: Grilled Lobster (non-veg), Mango Salad (veg)

5. Al Sahari Restaurant

   Address: Near Bilad Sur Castle, Sur, Oman

   Famous Food: Omani Shuwa (non-veg), Hummus (veg)