Food in Kuwait: Try a Feast of Local Flavors

Food in Kuwait is a perfect combination of tradition and modern flavors that will delight any palate. In this small but bustling country, you’ll find an array of dishes that reflect its rich history and diverse influences. From the fragrant spices of traditional Kuwaiti dishes like Machboos and Harees to the fresh, zesty flavors of seafood, Kuwaiti cuisine offers something for everyone. Street food vendors serve up mouthwatering treats, such as Shawarma and Falafel, while cozy cafes and upscale restaurants offer an array of Middle Eastern delicacies. Each meal is a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of Kuwaiti culture. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal with family or grabbing a quick bite on the go, the food in Kuwait promises to be a memorable adventure for your taste buds. So come hungry and get ready to explore the delicious world of Kuwaiti cuisine!

Delicious Food in Kuwait: From Shawarma and Harees to Kebabs

In this blog, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Kuwait, highlighting the best food items that define this vibrant cuisine. You’ll discover the top dishes to try, including the rich, spiced Machboos, savory Harees, and fresh seafood delights that are local favorites. We’ll also guide you to the best restaurants in Kuwait, from traditional eateries serving authentic Kuwaiti dishes to modern spots offering innovative twists on classic flavors. Whether you’re in search of street food, casual dining, or upscale experiences, we’ve got you covered. The best time to visit Kuwait to enjoy its food scene at its peak, with cooler months from October to March is ideal for exploring the city and savoring outdoor dining. Get ready to explore food in Kuwait and vibrant food culture!

We have curated down the list of top 10 food items in Kuwait:

1. Machboos
2. Harees
3. Shawarma
4. Falafel
5. Kebab
6. Jireesh
7. Biryani
8. Grilled Hammour
9. Kubba
10. Mutabbaq

1. Machboos

Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with Machboos, Kuwait's beloved national dish! You'll find yourself enjoying fragrant rice cooked to perfection with tender chunks of meat – usually chicken, lamb, or fish. The secret lies in its aromatic spice blend, featuring cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron. As you dig in, you'll notice how the rice has soaked up all the delicious flavors, making each mouthful a journey through Kuwaiti cuisine. Topped with caramelized onions and often served with a side of fresh salad or yogurt, Machboos is more than just a meal – it's a celebration of Kuwaiti hospitality on a plate which makes it best food in Kuwait.

Restaurants Serving Machboos in Kuwait:

• Majboos Restaurant
• Freej Swaeleh
• Mais Alghanim
• Khaneen Restaurant
• Al Mann O Salwa Restaurant
• Kabsa House

Types:

• Machboos Laham
• Machboos Dajaj
• Machboos Samak
• Machboos Biryani
• Machboos Khaleej

2. Harees

Imagine the most comforting bowl of goodness you've ever had – that's Harees for you! This healthy food in Kuwait is like a warm hug from Kuwait's culinary tradition. You'll find it's a simple yet satisfying blend of wheat and tender meat, slow-cooked until it reaches a creamy, porridge-like consistency. As you eat it, you'll notice its subtle, nurturing flavors. Often topped with a drizzle of clarified butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon, Harees is the go-to dish for cold days, Ramadan evenings, or when you're craving some serious comfort food. It's not just filling; it's a testament to the power of patience in cooking.

Restaurants Serving Harees:

• Mais Alghanim
• Asha's
• Al Ahmadi Restaurant
• Shandiz
• Mughal Mahal Sharq
• Freej Swaeleh
• Slider Station
• Dar Hamad
• Layali Kuwait Restaurant

Types:

• Harees Laham
• Harees Dajaj
• Harees Samak

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3. Shawarma

You can't walk through Kuwait's streets without catching the mouthwatering aroma of shawarma! This beloved street food will have you coming back for more. Picture this: very tasty slices of seasoned meat – be it chicken, lamb, or beef – stacked high on a vertical spit, slowly roasting to perfection. As you watch, the meat is shaved off in thin, juicy pieces and nestled into warm pita bread or wrapped in flatbread. You get to customize your handheld feast with fresh veggies, pickles, and a variety of sauces. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or satisfying a late-night craving, shawarma is delicious Arabic food in Kuwait.

Restaurants Serving Shawarma:

• Shawarma Matic
• Shawarma Shuwaikh
• Shawarma Musli
• Shawarma Shakir
• Bo Masoud Shawarma Restaurant
• Mais Alghanim
• Dandoosh Restaurant
• shawarma alzain
• Shawarma Anas al-Sham
• Shawarma mishref
• Shawarma Factory
• Em Sherif Cafe Kuwait
• Shawarmar Classic

Types:

• Shawarma Dajaj (Chicken Shawarma)
• Shawarma Laham (Beef Shawarma)
• Shawarma Kebab (Mixed Grill Shawarma)
• Shawarma Lamb (Lamb Shawarma)
• Shawarma Shawarma (Vegetarian Shawarma)

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4. Falafel

Prepare for a vegetarian delight that even meat lovers can't resist! These little golden balls of joy are a staple in Kuwaiti cuisine, also best breakfast in Kuwait. Made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs and spices, they're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. As you bite into one, you'll experience a burst of flavors – the deliciousness of the beans, the freshness of herbs, and the warmth of cumin and coriander. Falafels are versatile too; enjoy them on their own, stuffed in pita bread with fresh veggies and tahini sauce, or as part of a mezze platter. They're not just tasty – they're a protein-packed, satisfying option for any time of day.

Restaurants Serving Falafel:

• Sharaf Restaurant
• Wahed Falafel - Bnaid AlGar
• Falafel zaki
• Mais Alghanim
• Wahed Falafel - Salmiya
• Layali Al Qamar
• Assaha Restaurant
• Bebabel
• Amiti Noura
• Avli
• Em Sherif Cafe Kuwait
• Falafel Al Shaab Restaurant
• Wahed Falafel

Types:

• Falafel Traditional (Classic chickpea falafel)
• Falafel Lentil (Made with lentils)
• Falafel Mix (A combination of chickpeas and other legumes or vegetables)
• Falafel Stuffed (Falafel filled with ingredients like cheese or vegetables)

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5. Kebab

Get ready to fire up your taste buds with Kebabs, a grilled sensation that's a must-try food in Kuwait! You'll find skewers of marinated meat – often lamb, beef, or chicken – grilled to juicy perfection over open flames. The secret is in the marinade, a blend of yogurt, lemon, and aromatic spices that tenderize the meat and infuse it with incredible flavor. As you take a bite, you'll experience a smoky char giving way to tasty, seasoned meat. Kebabs are often served with fluffy rice, grilled vegetables, and a side of cooling yogurt sauce. Perfect for barbecues or as a main dish, these skewers of delight offer you a true taste of Middle Eastern grilling expertise. Also, make sure to try your hands on the best dessert in Kuwait after enjoying the varieties of Kebab to perfectly balance the taste of savory and sweet.

Restaurants Serving Kebabs:

• Kebab Al Hujjah
• Kabab Factory
• King of the grill restaurant
• Meat Moot
• Istanbul Restaurant
• Black Tray
• Kabab Factory Restaurant
• Kabab Shams
• The Grove - Kuwait City
• Molouk Shandiz Kuwait
• Bazaar gurme

Types:

• Kebab Hindi (Indian-style kebab)
• Kebab Shish (Shish kebab, skewered meat)
• Kebab Kofta (Minced meat kebab)
• Kebab Laham (Lamb kebab)
• Kebab Dajaj (Chicken kebab)

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6. Jireesh

Discover comfort in a bowl with Jireesh, that you can find easily at the famous restaurants in Kuwait. You'll find it's a satisfying mix of crushed wheat cooked with tender chunks of meat, often lamb or chicken. As you spoon it up, you'll notice how the wheat has absorbed the rich flavors of the meat and aromatic spices. Onions add a touch of sweetness, while some versions include tomatoes for a hint of acidity. Jireesh is often topped with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for extra texture. It's the kind of meal that'll keep you full and content for hours, perfect for those days when you need a nutritious, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal.

Restaurants Serving Jireesh:

• Baker & Spice
• Al-Diwan
• Sultan's Lounge
• Jumeirah Restaurant

Types:

• Jireesh Laham (Lamb Jireesh)
• Jireesh Dajaj (Chicken Jireesh)

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7. Biryani

After you have discovered the best attractions in Kuwait, prepare your senses for a flavor explosion with Biryani, a beloved rice dish that's found a special place in Kuwaiti cuisine. As you lift the lid, you'll be greeted by a cloud of fragrant steam – a preview of the aromatic journey ahead. Layers of long-grain basmati rice are cooked with tender meat (often chicken or lamb). Each spoonful offers a different combination of textures and tastes. You might find hidden gems like crispy fried onions, plump raisins, or crunchy nuts. While its roots are in India, Kuwait has embraced Biryani and given it its own delicious twist.

Restaurants Serving Biryani:

• The Cardamom Club
• Asha's
• Hala HYDERABADI Restaurant
• Biryani Pot Restaurant
• Biryani Handi Restaurant, Kuwait
• LUCKY DA DHABA
• Oriental Restaurant
• Nizamat Hyderabad Restaurant,
• Jamawar
• Dawat Al Kuwait Restaurant
• Agnii Avenues Mall
• Vijay Restaurant
• Mughlai biryani

Types:

• Chicken Biryani
• Lamb Biryani
• Beef Biryani
• Fish Biryani
• Vegetable Biryani

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8. Grilled Hammour

If you're a seafood lover, then trying grilled Hammour is one of the best things to do in Kuwait for you. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Hammour, a type of grouper found in the Arabian Gulf, is prized for its firm, white flesh and mild, sweet flavor. You'll find it simply seasoned with lemon, herbs, and perhaps a touch of local spices before being grilled to perfection. As you take a bite, you'll appreciate how the grilling process enhances the fish's natural flavors while keeping it moist and tender. Often served with aromatic rice or fresh salad, grilled Hammour offers you a lighter yet satisfying option that truly captures the taste of Kuwait's coastal cuisine.

Restaurants Serving Hammour:

• Al Muhallab Seafood Restaurant
• Al Noukhaza Sea Food Al Thuraya City
• Fish Market Restaurant
• Fish store
• King of the grill restaurant
• Fish market towers
• Fish Market Restaurant
• Mais Alghanim
• Midar
• Al Shamam Restaurant
• Ocean Basket Green Island
• JUMBARI FISH RESTAURANT
• Fish Door
• Fish n Co
• Zephere Restaurant

Types:

• Grilled Hammour Plain
• Grilled Hammour with Lemon and Herbs
• Grilled Hammour with Spices
• Grilled Hammour with Garlic and Olive Oil

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9. Kubba

Get ready to discover Kubba at best places to visit in Kuwait. It is the crispy meat pockets that are a beloved part of Kuwaiti cuisine. As you bite into one, you'll first encounter a crispy exterior made from bulgur wheat or rice. But the real treasure lies inside – a savory filling of seasoned minced meat, often mixed with onions and pine nuts for extra flavor and crunch. The contrast between the crunchy shell and the juicy, spiced interior is simply irresistible. Kubba comes in various shapes and sizes. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, these flavor-packed bites offer you a delightful taste of Kuwaiti culinary craftsmanship.

Restaurants Serving Kubba:

• Kubbathahab
• Bebabel
• Mais Alghanim
• HuQQabaz
• Khyber Restaurant
• Babel
• Darb ALZalag Restaurant

Types:

• Kubba Halab (Aleppo-style kibbeh)
• Kubba Mosul (Mosul-style kibbeh)
• Kubba Labania (Kibbeh in yogurt sauce)
• Kubba Fried (Deep-fried kibbeh)
• Kubba Baked (Oven-baked kibbeh)

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10. Mutabbaq

Prepare your taste buds for Mutabbaq, a stuffed pastry that's like a delicious present waiting to be unwrapped. You'll watch as skilled hands stretch a thin layer of dough until it's almost translucent, then fill it with your choice of savory or sweet ingredients. Popular fillings include seasoned minced meat with onions, or for a sweet treat, cheese with honey. The dough is then expertly folded to encase the filling and pan-fried until golden and crispy. As you take a bite, you'll experience a satisfying crunch giving way to a burst of flavors inside. Whether you choose it as a quick snack or part of a larger meal, Mutabbaq offers you a taste of Kuwaiti street food at its finest.

Restaurants Serving Mutabbaq:

• Midar
• Amiti Noura
• Al Shamam Restaurant
• Mais Alghanim
• Cocoa Room
• Freej Swaeleh - Mubarakiya
• Freej Swaeleh
• Arzak Restaurant
• Al Shemam Restaurant
• Dar Hamad
• Al Ahmadi Restaurant
• Samarqand Restaurant
• Kashounat Al-Bait
• Darb ALZalag Restaurant
• Dafoor Kuwaiti and Yemeni food
• Al Boom Steak & Seafood Restaurant

Types:

• Mutabbaq Lahm (Meat-stuffed Mutabbaq)
• Mutabbaq Dajaj (Chicken-stuffed Mutabbaq)
• Mutabbaq Vegetables (Vegetable-stuffed Mutabbaq)
• Mutabbaq Cheese (Cheese-stuffed Mutabbaq)

In conclusion, food in Kuwait is a mix of different flavors from nearby countries. People in Kuwait enjoy both old and new dishes. Today, you can find food from all over the world in Kuwait, not just local dishes. As time goes on, Kuwait's food keeps changing, but people still love their traditional meals. The country is becoming known as a great place to try different foods in the Middle East. Ensure that you discover our various Kuwait tour packages that offers a perfect blend of culinary and cultural experiences within this amazing country.

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