
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Latakia, Syria
1. Kibbeh Nayyeh (Fresh Kibbeh)
A raw dish made from minced meat, onions, and bulgur, popular in Latakia. Try it at Al-Mansouria Restaurant.
- Authentic Taste: Experience the authentic taste of fresh kibbeh as it's a traditional dish in Syria.
- Rare Preparation: Fresh kibbeh is not commonly found outside of Syria, making it a unique culinary experience.
- Local Favorite: Kibbeh Nayyeh is a beloved dish among locals and a must-try when visiting Latakia.
2. Muhammara (Red Pepper Dip)
A delicious dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and spices. Try it at Al-Sham Restaurant.
- Unique Flavor: Muhammara's blend of sweet and spicy flavors is unlike any other dip you may have tried.
- Versatile Side: Enjoy Muhammara with pita bread, vegetables, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
- Local Staple: Muhammara is a popular dish in Latakia and a great representation of Syrian cuisine.
3. Fatayer Sultan (Cheese Pastry)
Flaky pastry filled with cheese and herbs. Try it at Al-Awda Restaurant.
- Tasty Snack: Fatayer Sultan is a tasty, portable snack perfect for exploring Latakia.
- Variety of Fillings: Al-Awda Restaurant offers various fillings for Fatayer Sultan, including spinach and ground meat.
- Traditional Pastry: The flaky pastry is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry, but the cheesy filling sets it apart in Latakia.
4. Fish Soup (Soup Al-Samak)
A hearty fish soup made with a variety of fresh seafood. Try it at Fish Market Soup Stalls.
- Seafood Freshness: The fish used in the soup is incredibly fresh, as Latakia is located on the Mediterranean Sea.
- Comforting Meal: Soup Al-Samak is a comforting meal, ideal for those chillier Latakia evenings.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the street food experience at the Fish Market Soup Stalls while soaking up the local atmosphere.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
Tender grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. Try them at Al-Qasab Restaurant.
- Vegetarian Option: Warak Enab offers a delicious vegetarian option in Latakia's dining scene.
- Middle Eastern Classic: The dish is popular throughout the Middle East, but Al-Qasab Restaurant's version stands out.
- Versatile Side Dish: Warak Enab can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side with other Syrian specialties.
6. Tabbouleh (Bulgur Salad)
A refreshing bulgur salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon juice. Try it at Al-Awda Restaurant.
- Healthy Option: Tabbouleh is a light, healthy dish perfect for those looking to balance indulgent foods.
- Refreshing Side Dish: Enjoy the refreshing taste of Tabbouleh alongside other Syrian dishes.
- Typical Syrian Salad: Tabbouleh is a common salad in Syria, but Al-Awda Restaurant's version showcases the dish's freshness.
7. Makhloubeh (Upside Down Rice)
A flavorful rice dish with layers of meat, vegetables, and seasonings. Try it at Al-Sham Restaurant.
- Unique Presentation: Makhloubeh's upside-down presentation makes for an interesting dining experience.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: Makhloubeh is a hearty, flavorful dish that will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
- Syrian Signature Dish: Al-Sham Restaurant's Makhloubeh showcases the creativity and culinary skills of Syrian chefs.
8. Sfiha (Syrian Pizza)
Thin-crust pizza topped with ground meat, onions, and seasonings. Try it at Al-Awda Restaurant.
- Middle Eastern Spin: Sfiha offers a Middle Eastern twist on a beloved global dish.
- Perfect Snack: Sfiha makes for a great snack, either as a standalone dish or alongside other Syrian specialties.
- Versatile Toppings: Al-Awda Restaurant offers various toppings for Sfiha, such as cheese, spinach, and ground meat.
9. Basturma (Cured Beef)
Thinly sliced, cured beef. Try it at the local markets.
- Authentic Snack: Basturma is a traditional Syrian snack and an excellent example of local culinary traditions.
- Versatile Treat: Basturma can be enjoyed on its own, wrapped in flatbread, or added to other dishes.
- Flavorful Bite: The flavorful, spiced meat makes for a memorable bite during your visit to Latakia.
10. Konafa (Shredded Phyllo Pastry Dessert)
A sweet dessert made from shredded phyllo pastry and topped with syrup or cream. Try it at Al-Qasab Restaurant.
- Sweet Delight: Konafa is a delicious, sweet treat to satisfy your cravings.
- Local Dessert Favorite: Konafa is a beloved dessert among locals and a great way to end your meal.
- Visually Appealing: The golden, crispy Konafa is sure to catch your eye as you explore Latakia's dining scene.
11. Shawarma (Grilled Meat Sandwich)
A classic Middle Eastern sandwich made from grilled meat, pickles, and sauces. Try it at the street food vendors.
- Portable Snack: Shawarma is a convenient, portable snack for those on-the-go in Latakia.
- Versatile Fillings: Choose from various fillings, such as chicken, beef, or lamb.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the street food experience while sampling this popular Middle Eastern dish.
12. Foul (Fava Bean Dish)
A traditional Syrian breakfast made from mashed fava beans, served with garlic, lemon juice, and oil. Try it at local cafes.
- Authentic Breakfast: Foul is a traditional Syrian breakfast option that will help you immerse yourself in local culture.
- Economical Meal: Foul is an economical meal, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of flavors in Foul will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
13. Baklava (Syrian Pastry)
A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup. Try it at Al-Qasab Restaurant.
- Sweet Treat: Baklava is a delicious, sweet treat that will satisfy your cravings.
- Visually Appealing: The intricate layers of Baklava make for an eye-catching dessert.
- Traditional Pastry: Baklava is a traditional Syrian pastry, but Al-Qasab Restaurant's version showcases the dish's elegance.
14. Kunafa (Syrian Cheese Pastry Dessert)
A sweet dessert made from shredded phyllo pastry and cheese. Try it at Al-Awda Restaurant.
- Sweet Delight: Kunafa is a delicious, sweet treat to satisfy your cravings.
- Local Dessert Favorite: Kunafa is a beloved dessert among locals and a great way to end your meal.
- Visually Appealing: The golden, crispy Kunafa is sure to catch your eye as you explore Latakia's dining scene.
15. Kishk (Yogurt Drink)
A refreshing yogurt drink popular in Syria. Try it at local cafes.
- Refreshing Drink: Kishk is a refreshing, cooling beverage perfect for those hot Latakia days.
- Traditional Drink: Kishk is a traditional Syrian drink that offers a glimpse into local culture.
- Versatile Beverage: Enjoy Kishk as a standalone beverage or use it as a base for other drinks, such as smoothies or lemonade.