Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Homs, Syria

1. Mansaf Homsi

Traditional Bedouin dish made with rice, lamb, and fermented dried yogurt served on a large platter. Try it at Al-Bashaqa Restaurant.

Authenticity: Served in a traditional restaurant with an authentic atmosphere.
Taste: A unique blend of flavors, combining sweet and salty tastes.
Presentation: Served on a large platter that is characteristic of Mansaf dishes.

Raw minced meat mixture with bulgur wheat, onions, and spices. Try it at Al-Maharmeh Restaurant.

Bold Flavor: An acquired taste for those who enjoy strong flavors.
Traditional Preparation: Prepared in the traditional manner, using fresh, local ingredients.
Experience: Trying raw kibbeh is a cultural experience for adventurous eaters.

Stuffed pepper dish made with ground meat, rice, and pine nuts. Try it at Al-Halab Restaurant.

Local Ingredients: Prepared with locally sourced bell peppers and pine nuts.
Taste Variation: The sweetness of the pepper pairs well with the savory meat filling.
Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of the stuffed peppers make for an eye-catching dish.

Chicken dish cooked on a saj (clay griddle) with onions and sumac. Try it at Al-Qal'a Restaurant.

Cooking Method: Cooked on a traditional clay griddle, imparting unique flavors.
Taste Combination: The sweetness of the onions complements the savory chicken well.
Visual Presentation: Served with freshly baked Arabic bread, adding to the visual appeal.

Rice and vegetable dish cooked upside down, resulting in a layer of vegetables on top. Try it at Al-Jawhar Restaurant.

Cooking Technique: Cooked upside down to create the unique layered appearance.
Flavor Profile: The combination of flavors from the vegetables and spices makes for a satisfying dish.
Visual Impact: Turning the pot upside down to reveal the layered appearance is quite dramatic.

Stuffed grapevine leaves with meat and rice. Try it at Al-Hamwiyya Restaurant.

Local Ingredients: Made with locally grown grapes and fresh ingredients.
Taste Variation: The slight tang of the grapevine leaves adds an interesting twist to the dish.
Cultural Significance: A traditional dish with roots in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Pastry pockets filled with spinach, cheese, or meat. Try them at Al-Safadi Sweets.

Traditional Pastry: Prepared using traditional pastry techniques.
Flavor Variety: Available in various flavors, including spinach, cheese, and meat.
Portability: Perfect for a quick, on-the-go snack or as part of a meal.

Cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup and topped with clotted cream. Try it at Al-Mahatta Restaurant.

Sweet Treat: A delicious, sweet dessert to end a meal.
Unique Texture: The crispy pastry contrasts with the soft, gooey cheese filling.
Traditional Ingredients: Made with local cheeses and clotted cream.

Rice dish with chicken, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. Try it at Al-Qubba Restaurant.

Flavorful Combo: The combination of flavors from the chicken, potatoes, and spices makes for a filling dish.
Visual Impact: The reversed layering of ingredients creates an interesting visual appeal.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced chicken and potatoes.

Grilled fish served on a bed of saffron rice. Try it at Al-Bashaqa Restaurant.

Fresh Fish: Sourced fresh from local markets daily.
Aromatic Rice: Infused with saffron for a rich, fragrant flavor.
Visual Appeal: The presentation of the fish atop the aromatic rice is visually appealing.

Stir-fried okra with tomatoes and onions. Try it at Al-Hamwiyya Restaurant.

Local Ingredients: Made with locally grown okra and fresh tomatoes.
Taste Variation: The subtle sweetness of the okra pairs well with the tangy tomatoes.
Health Benefits: Okra is known for its nutritional benefits, making this a healthy option.

Dish made from cooked and mashed fava beans served with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Try it at Al-Qal'a Restaurant.

Traditional Breakfast: A popular breakfast dish in Homs.
Taste Profile: The combination of flavors creates a unique taste profile.
Health Benefits: Fava beans are high in fiber and protein, making this a nutritious choice.

Middle Eastern salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, parsley, and mint. Try it at Al-Safadi Sweets.

Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh, locally sourced vegetables.
Taste Combo: The refreshing combination of flavors makes for a delicious starter.
Health Benefits: A light, healthy option that's perfect for a hot day.

Strong black tea brewed with cardamom, saffron, and milk. Try it at Al-Mahatta Restaurant.

Strength: A strong, aromatic drink that warms the body.
Traditional Preparation: Prepared using traditional methods and spices.
Cultural Significance: A popular beverage in the Middle East, enjoyed throughout the day.

Sweet, rose-flavored drink made from grapes and carob molasses. Try it at Al-Hamwiyya Restaurant.

Refreshing Drink: A refreshing, sweet drink perfect for hot weather.
Traditional Preparation: Prepared using traditional recipes and local ingredients.
Taste Profile: The unique combination of flavors creates a memorable taste profile.