Must-Try Foods In Green Mosque (Mazari-Sharif) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Green Mosque, Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan

The food history around the Green Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali in Mazar-i-Sharif, is deeply intertwined with Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage. The presence of such a significant religious site has fostered a local cuisine that reflects the diversity and history of the region. Cuisine here is influenced by the various ethnic groups such as Tajiks, Uzbeks, and Hazaras. Given the Islamic practices in the area, the food is mostly halal and excluding dishes made from pork and alcohol. Traditional cooking is marked by the use of a variety of spices, flavorful rice dishes, and a broad array of breads which are a staple part of the meals.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Green Mosque, Mazar-i-Sharif for Tourists

1. Ashak (Vegetarian): These are scallion-filled dumplings, topped with tomato sauce, yogurt, and dried mint.
2. Bolani (Vegetarian): A flatbread stuffed with different fillings like potatoes, lentils, or pumpkin, and is usually fried or baked.
3. Mantu (Non-Veg): Traditional Afghan dumplings filled with minced lamb or chicken, onions, and spices, topped with a yogurt-based sauce.
4. Kabuli Pulao (Non-Veg): A flavorful rice dish with lamb, raisins, carrots, and nuts. It's considered the national dish of Afghanistan.
5. Borani Banjan (Vegetarian): Fried eggplant served with a tomato sauce and a drizzle of yogurt, often garnished with dried mint.
6. Ash (Vegetarian): A thick soup made with noodles, vegetables, and legumes, seasoned with various spices and sometimes topped with yogurt.
7. Firnee (Vegetarian): A sweet dessert made of milk, cornstarch, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and often garnished with pistachios.
8. Afghan Salata (Vegetarian): A refreshing salad typically made of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and coriander, with a lemon juice and olive oil dressing.
9. Gosh-e-Feel (Vegetarian): A sweet pastry known as the "elephant ear," which is deep-fried and coated with powdered sugar or dipped in honey.
10. Naan-e-Afghani (Vegetarian): Afghan bread that's long, oval-shaped, and baked in a tandoor oven; it's a staple accompaniment to most meals.

Top Famous Restaurants in Green Mosque, Mazar-i-Sharif with Famous Food

1. Barat Restaurant
   Address: Mazari Sharif, Afghanistan
   Famous food: Kabuli Pulao (Non-Veg)
2. Omar Restaurant
   Address: Saqez Panshir Road, Mazari Sharif 1701, Afghanistan
   Famous food: Mantu (Non-Veg)
3. Bagh-e Babur Restaurant
   Address: Mazari Sharif, Afghanistan
   Famous food: Bolani (Vegetarian)
4. Karwan Balkh
   Address: Highway Road to Hairatan, Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan
   Famous food: Ashak (Vegetarian)
5. Ay Khanum Restaurant
   Address: Dehdad Street, Mazari Sharif 1701, Afghanistan
   Famous food: Borani Banjan (Vegetarian)

Please note that while these restaurants are well-known, actual availability and operation can change, and it is wise to check the current status given the volatile conditions in Afghanistan. Due to cultural and religious practices, most restaurants in Mazar-i-Sharif serve halal food, and vegetarian options are generally available.