If you’re traveling to Oman, there’s one dish you absolutely cannot miss: “Shuwa”. To enjoy this renowned traditional Omani dish, the traditional restaurant “Bait Al Luban” with its charming antique interior is the perfect choice. Today, I’ll share my dining experience of Shuwa at “Bait Al Luban”!
Shuwa is a traditional dish essential for special celebrations in Oman. It’s a meat dish slowly cooked at low temperatures for a long time, characterized by its aromatic spices and tender meat. Shuwa typically uses beef, lamb, or goat, and is enjoyed with family and friends on special occasions.
The cooking method is unique: first, the meat is marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then slow-cooked in an underground fire pit for over 24 hours. This method makes the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.
While Middle Eastern cuisines often share similarities (indeed, due to ethnic exchanges and nation-building in the Arab region, cuisines of neighboring countries are often very similar), Oman has preserved many distinctive dishes that cannot be found in other Arab countries, with Shuwa being a prime example.
Muttrah’s Famous Restaurant “Bait Al Luban”
Bait Al Luban stands in the center of Muttrah
“Bait Al Luban” is a restaurant offering traditional Omani cuisine located in the Muttrah (also known as Matrah) district of Muscat. True to its name, which means “House of Frankincense” in Arabic, it values Omani culture and traditions while serving local dishes made with indigenous ingredients.
The restaurant utilizes a traditional Omani building, and its atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. The interior features beautiful decorations with furnishings reminiscent of Arabian Nights. Just visiting allows you to experience Oman’s rich culture and history.
The interior features classic Omani antique-style design. There are both table seats and Arabic-style floor seating.
Dining Report
Navigate through narrow alleys to find the restaurant entrance
Now, let’s get into my dining experience of Shuwa at “Bait Al Luban.” Finding Bait Al Luban can be a bit tricky; the entrance is located down a narrow alley to the right of the building. Having not done proper research before visiting, I initially struggled to find the entrance.
Upon entering the restaurant, we were greeted by staff with warm smiles and guided to seats surrounded by traditional Omani decorations.
We were guided to this floor-style table. You can enjoy your meal while relaxing on the plush sofa.
Menu Selection
Without hesitation, I ordered Shuwa
While “Bait Al Luban’s” menu features a lineup of traditional Omani dishes, I ordered the Shuwa, which was my purpose for visiting. When I asked the waiter for recommendations, I learned that Shuwa isn’t necessarily prepared every day, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance. Fortunately, Shuwa was available on the day of my visit, so I promptly ordered it.
The Arrival of Shuwa
The long-awaited Shuwa arrives! The tender meat looks dazzling.
After enjoying various appetizers, the main dish, Shuwa, arrived. Served on a silver plate, the Shuwa looked steaming hot and appetizing. The exquisite flavor created by the unique spice blend wafted through the air along with the pleasant aroma of the meat’s fat.
I took my first bite of Shuwa. At that moment, the meat crumbled tenderly in my mouth, releasing the rich flavors of the spices. Due to the long cooking time, the meat was extremely tender, with the spices thoroughly infused. I had imagined it would taste similar to Indonesian rendang, but it was quite different—a rich yet refreshing taste with a pronounced saltiness. I was moved by the deep flavor and richness unlike anything I had tasted before.
Shuwa is served with rice and salad. The combination with rice is especially excellent, creating a perfect balance between the spiced meat and simple rice. The rice is also cooked in Omani style, and when eaten together with Shuwa, its deliciousness is further enhanced.
Dessert
Saffron milk ordered instead of coffee
At the end of the meal comes coffee time. However, as it was already late that day, I had saffron milk instead of coffee. Also, at the end of the meal, I enjoyed Oman’s traditional dessert, “Halwa.” Halwa is a sweet confection made with sugar, butter, and spices, characterized by its rich flavor and unique texture.
Dates, familiar throughout the Middle East, and Oman’s famous sweet ‘Halwa’
Furthermore, in local style, connoisseurs nibble on dates with coffee. Many dates were brought along with Halwa, creating a dessert buffet-like situation. While rubbing my stomach, already full from the Shuwa, I brought Halwa and dates to my mouth with saffron milk. After the spicy flavor of Shuwa, this sweet dessert was perfect. The exotic-scented milk and the unabashedly sweet Omani desserts threatened to max out my blood sugar levels, but I felt completely satisfied in body and soul.
The Atmosphere at Bait Al Luban
Being able to dine while relaxing in a reclined position is part of Bait Al Luban’s charm
The appeal of “Bait Al Luban” isn’t just the food. The restaurant’s atmosphere is also worth visiting. The interior incorporates traditional Omani architectural styles, with beautiful decorations and furniture. It feels like wandering into the world of Arabian Nights.
The staff are also very friendly and carefully explain Omani culture and cuisine. Being able to learn about Oman’s history and customs while dining is another charm of Bait Al Luban.
What Did You Think?
When visiting Oman, you cannot leave without trying “Shuwa.” And to enjoy that Shuwa, “Bait Al Luban” is highly recommended. At this traditional restaurant, you can savor authentic Shuwa while feeling Oman’s culture and history. Please experience the taste of Oman at “Bait Al Luban,” which offers delicious food, warm hospitality, and a wonderful atmosphere.
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