Food In Makkah Museum

Food History of Makkah Museum, Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia

The Makkah Museum, also known as The Makkah Al-Zaher Palace Museum, provides visitors with a rich tapestry of the cultural and religious history of the region. Although the museum itself does not solely focus on food, the history of Mecca is deeply intertwined with cuisine that reflects the city's position as a crossroads of various cultures and trade routes. Traditionally, Meccan cuisine has been influenced by the array of pilgrims coming for Hajj, bringing with them a diversity of culinary traditions from across the Muslim world.

Meccan food blends elements of Middle Eastern, Asian, North African, and even Indian flavors, creating a unique culinary mosaic. The sharing of meals amongst pilgrims, regardless of nationality, has been a way to promote brotherhood and sustenance during the spiritual journey of Hajj, with the traditions and rituals shaping Mecca's gastronomic scene.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Makkah Museum, Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia

1. Al Kabsa (non-veg): A flavorful chicken and rice dish seasoned with spices and nuts and often considered a national dish.
2. Mutabbaq (non-veg or veg): A stuffed pancake usually filled with minced meat, although vegetarian options are also available.
3. Shawarma (non-veg): Grilled meat, typically chicken or lamb, served wrapped in a flatbread with vegetables and sauce.
4. Samboosa (veg or non-veg): Fried or baked pastry with various fillings, including cheese, vegetables, or minced meat.
5. Jarish (non-veg): A traditional wheat-based dish often served with chicken, similar to a hearty stew.
6. Aseeda (veg): A boiled wheat flour lump, often served with honey or ghee, a sweet and filling dessert or snack.
7. Falafel (veg): Deep-fried chickpea balls, often served with tahini sauce, in a pita, or with fresh salad.
8. Hummus (veg): A creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, and garlic, commonly eaten with flatbread.
9. Harees (non-veg): A dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
10. Umm Ali (veg): A delicious pastry dessert made with milk, nuts, and sugar, akin to a Middle Eastern bread pudding.

Top Famous Restaurants in Makkah Museum, Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia

• Al Baik
  Address: Various locations around Mecca
  Famous Food: Broasted Chicken (non-veg)
• The Oasis Restaurant
  Address: Makkah Hilton Towers, Ibrahim Al Khalil Street
  Famous Food: Mixed Grill (non-veg)
• Al Tazaj
  Address: Various locations around Mecca
  Famous Food: BBQ Chicken (non-veg)
• Al Deyafa Restaurant
  Address: Hilton Suites Makkah, Jabal Omar, Ash Shubaikah
  Famous Food: Buffet Selections including vegetarian options (veg/non-veg)
• Raffles Creamery
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Raffles, Jabal Omar
  Famous Food: Assorted Ice Cream (veg)
• Smash Burger
  Address: Jabal Omar, Mecca 24231
  Famous Food: Various Burgers (non-veg, veg options available)
• Hardee's
  Address: Mecca Mall, King Abdul Aziz Rd, Al Jamiah, Mecca
  Famous Food: Thickburgers (non-veg, veg options available)
• Al-Dar Al-Malaki
  Address: Al Hijrah St, Mecca 24231
  Famous Food: Mandi Lamb (non-veg)
• Elaf Basha Restaurant
  Address: Ibrahim El Khalil, Al Misfalah
  Famous Food: Jordanian Cuisine (veg/non-veg)
• Baskin Robbins
  Address: Various locations around Mecca
  Famous Food: Ice Cream (veg)

Note: It's important to be aware that Mecca is a sacred city for Muslims and, as such, respects Islamic dietary laws. This means that all the food is Halal, and you will not find any pork products or alcohol served here. Furthermore, during the fasting month of Ramadan, eating in public during the day is prohibited, although restaurants may provide takeaway or room service to non-fasting individuals.