If there is one place in Oman where food, culture, and history blend into something truly unforgettable, it is Nizwa. With its lively Nizwa souq, filled with the scent of aromatic spices in Oman, and rich Omani cuisine, this city is a destination for food lovers seeking something authentic. Whether you are aiming for a full Nizwa food tour or simply passing through, prepare to be seduced by the aroma of frankincense, dates, and saffron that lingers in the air.

Beyond the postcard-perfect fort and mountain views, Nizwa offers a deep dive into vibrant flavours — from traditional Omani food prepared the old-fashioned way to hidden corners of the Nizwa market where you will find those elusive secret spices from Oman that make the country’s dishes so distinctive.

The Nizwa souq is the city’s beating heart — a labyrinth of stalls that have been part of daily life here for centuries. Among the heritage souks in Oman, Nizwa’s stands out for its atmosphere and authenticity. Early mornings are the best time to visit, when traders arrange baskets of dried limes, rose petals, cardamom, and saffron — some of the most prized spices in Oman.

If you are wondering what to buy at Nizwa souq, start with the essentials: a jar of Omani honey, a packet of dried rosebuds for tea, and, of course, a blend of secret spices from Oman — often a local mix of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cloves that locals use in everything from soups to meat marinades.

Don’t miss the Nizwa date market, a section dedicated entirely to one of Oman’s proudest exports. You will find dates in every variety imaginable — from soft Khalas to rich Fard — along with date syrup and even coffee-flavoured versions. Sampling a few while chatting with local sellers is almost a rite of passage here.

To truly experience Omani cuisine, you need to eat as locals do — slowly, and preferably with your hands. Traditional dishes are rooted in the country’s trading history, influenced by India, Africa, and Persia, yet unmistakably Omani in their use of spices and slow-cooked techniques.

Among the best Omani dishes to try in Nizwa are shuwa — marinated lamb cooked underground for up to 48 hours — and majboos, a fragrant rice dish similar to biryani but with its own subtle spice balance. Another local favourite is mashuai, grilled kingfish served with lemon sauce, best enjoyed near the coast but found on many menus in town.

And if you have got a sweet tooth, don’t skip the traditional sweets in Nizwa, especially halwa. This sticky, rose-scented dessert made with saffron, sugar, and nuts is served at every celebration. You can buy freshly made halwa right at the Nizwa market food stalls — look for locals crowding around the vendors, that is usually a good sign.

Nizwa’s dining scene combines the charm of traditional Omani food with touches of modern comfort. Here are a few best places to eat in Nizwa that every foodie should have on their list:

Al Aqr traditional restaurant

Close to the Nizwa souq, Al Aqr Traditional Restaurant is a great replacement for former suggestions. Locals praise it for its grill items and its shuwa, prepared in a friendly, family-style atmosphere. It is especially well-suited for sampling Omani cuisine in a genuine Nizwa setting. 

Al Masharef Restaurant

One of the best places to eat in Nizwa and a must for anyone wanting a proper taste of Omani cuisine. You will find here generous portions of shuwa, majboos, and harees (a savoury porridge made with wheat and meat). The interior is simple, but the flavours are anything but ordinary. 

Tamrah Restaurant & Café

For something lighter, head here for coffee and dates in countless varieties, featuring produce from the Nizwa date market, plus local pastries and traditional sweets in Nizwa to go with your brew. The view of the fort makes this a lovely stop. 

Nizwa market food stalls & street food

No Nizwa food tour is complete without a stop at the Nizwa market food stalls. Morning visitors can grab freshly baked khubz rakhal — thin, crispy bread often spread with honey or cheese — and sip on karak tea infused with cardamom.

If you visit on Friday, the atmosphere is electric. Farmers come in from nearby villages, and the air fills with the smell of roasting meat and spices. This is when you will find some of the most authentic traditional Omani food you can taste — simple, hearty, and cooked with love.

Before you leave, stock up on edible souvenirs. Knowing what to buy at Nizwa souq can save you time — go for saffron, frankincense, cardamom, and blends of spices in Oman that locals use for everything from curries to desserts. You can also pick up halwa packed in beautifully decorated boxes, perfect as gifts.

And if you are curious to recreate what you have tasted, consider joining a short Nizwa food tour. Many local guides now offer cooking workshops that teach the basics of Omani cuisine, from mixing spice blends to preparing rice dishes the traditional way.

What makes Nizwa special isn’t just the food — it is the connection between culture and cuisine. The heritage souks in Oman aren’t relics of the past; they are living spaces where trade, storytelling, and flavour still intertwine. A walk through the Nizwa market is a walk through centuries of culinary tradition, and each spice jar, date box, or pot of halwa tells a part of Oman’s story.

So, whether you are here to discover the best places to eat in Nizwa, wander the Nizwa souq, or simply breathe in the aroma of spices in Oman, one thing is certain: Nizwa will leave your senses full and your suitcase smelling faintly of saffron.