Must-Try Foods In Erbil (Iraq) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Erbil, Iraq

The city of Erbil, known locally as Hawler, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world with a rich cultural tapestry that dates back millennia. Its cuisine is a testament to its history, with influences from Assyrian, Kurdish, and Ottoman culinary traditions. Erbil's food is known for its variety of flavors, use of fresh herbs, meats, and grains. Traditional cooking methods, often involving slow cooking and baking, are a significant part of its food culture. The city's geographical position and historical trade routes have also introduced a variety of spices and foods that have been incorporated into the local diet, making Erbil a fascinating destination for food lovers.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Erbil, Iraq

1. Masgouf - Non-veg: This is a traditional Iraqi fish dish, typically made with carp grilled over an open fire and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and tamarind.
2. Tapsi - Veg: A vegetarian favorite containing eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers, all cooked in a tomato sauce.
3. Dolma - Non-veg/Veg: Grape leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mix of rice and meat or just rice for the vegetarian version, seasoned with aromatic herbs.
4. Kubba - Non-veg: A dumpling-like dish made with bulgur or rice and a filling that often includes minced meat, onions, and spices, although there are veg versions available.
5. Biryani - Non-veg/Veg: Although of Indian origin, Biryani has a distinct Iraqi variation that can include vegetables or meat cooked with rice and a blend of spices.
6. Falafel - Veg: A well-known Middle Eastern dish, falafel consists of deep-fried chickpea balls often served with tahini sauce or wrapped in a flatbread.
7. Bamia - Non-veg: A stew made with okra and usually lamb or chicken, cooked in a tomato-based sauce and served with rice.
8. Kleicha - Veg: A traditional Iraqi cookie that’s often filled with dates or nuts. It's particularly popular during religious festivals and holidays.
9. Quzi - Non-veg: Slow-cooked lamb that's often seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, stuffed with nuts and raisins, and served over rice.
Sheikh Mahshi - Non-veg: This dish consists of eggplants or zucchinis stuffed with minced meat and nuts, cooked in a rich tomato sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Erbil, Iraq

• Matbakh Abu Shahab
  Address: 100m Street, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Masgouf (Non-veg)
  
• Darwazeh Baghdad
  Address: Ankawa, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Kubba (Non-veg)
  
• Shanadar Restaurant
  Address: Ainkawa Road, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Quzi (Non-veg)
  
• Altun Saray Restaurant
  Address: Kurdistan Parliament Street, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Biryani (Non-veg/Veg)
  
• Miran Restaurant
  Address: Italian Village 1, Villa #10, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Dolma (Non-veg/Veg)
  
• Chalak's Place
  Address: Gulan Street, Erbil, Iraq
  Famous Food: Falafel (Veg)