The Best Hotels for Foodies in and Around Muscat
As Oman pursues ambitious plans to boost foreign tourism, more and more upscale hotels are springing up in the capital. The city has a cosmopolitan and relatively liberal outlook, while its best hotels often double as social hubs for the moneyed and well-heeled. Consequently, there’s a decent range of culinary options in Muscat, especially Asian and Middle Eastern fare. Even vegetarians will find something to enjoy here.
1. Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
Resort, Hotel
2. The Chedi Muscat
Hotel
3. Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Resort
4. Alila Jabal Akhdar
Resort, Hotel
5. Al Falaj Hotel
Hotel
6. Kempinski Hotel
Hotel, Luxury
This luxury beach hotel, just north of the airport in the Al Mouj neighbourhood, features a bewildering array of rooms and suites along with three pools, a tennis court and a kids’ club. There’s also an 18-hole golf course within a five-minute drive. Dining ranges from European and Levantine at The Kitchen to Thai street food at Soi Soi, which also has a takeaway menu if you’re planning a picnic or a day trip. Bukhara features northwest Indian cuisine with extras such as grilled Omani lobster.
7. W Muscat
Hotel
Located in the upscale Shatti Al Qurum neighbourhood, the sea-facing W Muscat features vibrant accommodation with playful use of colour and decorative motifs that ripple across carpets and furniture. Char restaurant features steaks and grills, while Ba Ban serves up a Shanghai take on authentic Chinese food. For those seeking healthier options, Harvest focuses on seasonal local and organic ingredients.
8. Crowne Plaza Muscat
Chain Hotel
The Crowne Plaza lords over Qurum Beach from its enviable clifftop spot in the upscale Qurum Heights neighbourhood. It’s an elegant place with modern rooms, twin-deck infinity pools and squash courts. Shiraz, a Persian and Omani fine-dining restaurant, tops its culinary offerings with shuwa – slow-cooked lamb wrapped in banana leaves. Come Prima takes you on a gastronomic tour of Italy, with dishes like lobster tagliatelle and duck ragu with black truffle.
9. Fraser Suites Muscat
Serviced Apartment
Near Muscat’s western edge, the Fraser’s suite-like serviced apartments have a businesslike feel. Ranging from one to three bedrooms, all have fully-equipped kitchens and mod cons. Those without the will to cook, fear not: the in-house Oak restaurant features Middle Eastern and international cuisine. Its seasonal menu comprises many of the region’s favourite dishes, typically concluded with umm ali: a bread or pastry pudding with nuts and raisins, best washed down with tea. Choose between an evening buffet or a la carte.
10. Grand Millennium Muscat
Chain Hotel
Alongside the Muscat Grand Mall, the Grand Millennium’s strikingly illuminated facade screens elegantly luxurious rooms and suites. Top of the culinary offerings is Bahriyat, a specialty seafood restaurant with much of its produce originating in Muscat’s fish market. The subtle nautical theme is headed up by the twelve-seat ‘Captain’s Table’ with a bespoke menu and exclusive service. Back on dry land, Pasha café offers fine Turkish coffee with traditional roasts and flavoured alternatives, plus snacks.
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