Must-Try Foods In Erbil Square (Mudhafaria Minaret) (Erbil) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Erbil Square (Mudhafaria Minaret), Erbil, Iraq

The city of Erbil, known for hosting the majestic Mudhafaria Minaret, also known as the Minaret of Qalah, has a rich history that extends to its culinary traditions as well. As part of the Kurdish region - the heartland of many civilizations throughout history, such as the Assyrians and Ottomans, the food in Erbil is a tapestry woven from the various cultures that have influenced the area. Local cuisine includes a blend of Middle Eastern flavors with a unique Kurdish twist, emphasizing grains, vegetables, and meats such as chicken lamb, and goat.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Erbil Square (Mudhafaria Minaret)

1. Dolma - A traditional dish made with grape leaves, rice, and various vegetables (sometimes including meat, although vegetarian versions are common), seasoned with aromatic herbs. Non-Veg/Veg
2. Kubba - A type of dumpling made from bulgur or rice, often stuffed with minced lamb and spices. Non-Veg
3. Tapsi - An eggplant dish often combined with potatoes and tomatoes, cooked in a rich tomato sauce. Veg
4. Bamia - A stew made with okra, tomatoes, and lamb; however, it can be made without meat for a vegetarian option. Non-Veg/Veg
5. Yaprakh - Stuffed grape leaves which can include a variety of fillings such as rice and herbs. Veg
6. Biryani - Although commonly associated with Indian cuisine, Erbil's version is unique, combining fragrant rice with spices, nuts, and chicken or fish. Non-Veg
7. Masgouf - Grilled fish seasoned with salt, pepper, and tamarind, cooked traditionally on an open flame. Non-Veg
8. Falafel - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in a wrap or with a side of hummus. Veg
9. Tabbouleh - A refreshing parsley salad with bulgur, tomatoes, mint, onion, and drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil. Veg
10. Halva - A sweet, dense dessert commonly made from sesame paste (tahini) and sugar, often flavored with pistachios or almonds. Veg

Top Famous Restaurants in Erbil Square (Mudhafaria Minaret)

Grill Village

Address: Family Mall Street, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: Grilled kababs and shawarma. Non-Veg

Shanadar Park Restaurant

Address: Shanadar Park, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: Traditional Kurdish dishes and a variety of mezze. Non-Veg/Veg

Abu Shahab City

Address: Iskan Street, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: Chicken and lamb dishes, including tandoori chicken. Non-Veg

Matbakh Khanaqin

Address: Near Citadel, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: A variety of kebabs and falafel. Non-Veg/Veg

Atlas Restaurant

Address: Gulan Street, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: International cuisine options, including Middle Eastern vegetarian dishes. Non-Veg/Veg

Khan Murjan

Address: Ainkawa, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: Offering an authentic Ottoman experience with a selection of Kurdish and Arabic food. Non-Veg/Veg

Dawa 2

Address: 100m Street, Erbil, Iraq

Famous For: Known for its breakfast buffet and a variety of pastries and desserts. Veg

When visiting these restaurants, it's recommended to ask for the specific dishes available, as menus might offer seasonal variations or might have changed from traditional recipes to cater to a broader audience.