MENA Street Food Guide: What to Try and Where to Eat It
By Islam Salah
Street food in the MENA region isn’t just about eating—it’s about culture, tradition, and a shared experience that brings people together. Whether you’re exploring bustling city streets or wandering through lively markets, the vibrant smells and colors of street food stalls invite you into a world where every bite tells a story.
So, if you’re planning your next food adventure, let’s dive into the most popular street food dishes that you must try across this dynamic region.
Egypt: Koshari at Am Bashandy– The Comfort of Egypt in a Bowl
If you’ve ever found yourself strolling through Cairo, the fragrant aroma of Koshari will surely catch your attention.
Known as Egypt’s national dish, Koshari is the ultimate comfort food—a blend of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, all topped with crispy fried onions and a tangy tomato sauce. This simple yet delicious dish packs in layers of flavors that come together beautifully, making it an essential stop on your street food journey.
For an unforgettable Koshari experience, head to Am Bashandy in Cairo. This well-loved spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering an authentic taste of the dish that will make you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Egyptian culture.
Kuwait: Jareesh at Khaneen – A Hearty Kuwaiti Classic
When in Kuwait, Jareesh is a dish you simply can’t miss. Made with cracked wheat, it’s slow-cooked with chicken, lamb, or vegetables, creating a rich, aromatic stew. The texture is hearty and comforting, perfect for those cooler evenings when you need something to warm your soul. This dish is all about depth—richly flavored and packed with spices that give it an unforgettable taste.
To experience Jareesh at its finest, make your way to Khaneen in Murouj. Known for its traditional Kuwaiti menu, this restaurant brings you the best of local dishes with a contemporary twist.
Tunisia: Lablabi at Café des Délices– The Ultimate Comfort Soup
When the cool Tunisian breeze hits, there’s no better dish to warm you up than Lablabi—a rich, flavorful chickpea soup spiced with cumin, garlic, and harissa. Topped with a hard-boiled egg and often served with a side of bread, it’s a bowl of pure comfort that perfectly represents the heart of Tunisian street food.
For a taste of this quintessential Tunisian dish, stop by Café des Délices in Tunis. Nestled in the heart of the city, this café is renowned for serving a bowl of Lablabi that locals swear by. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere of Tunis while enjoying this soul-warming dish.
Saudi Arabia: Mutabbaq at Abu Zaid – A Savory Street Food Favorite
In Saudi Arabia, Mutabbaq reigns supreme as a street food favorite. This crispy, stuffed pancake is filled with savory fillings such as spiced ground beef, chicken, or vegetables.
One of the best places to grab a Mutabbaq is Abu Zaid in Jeddah, which has gained a reputation for its perfectly crispy and savory version. Whether you’re on the go or sitting down for a casual meal, Abu Zaid’s Mutabbaq is sure to hit the spot and leave you craving more.
A Flavorful Journey Through MENA Street Food
From Egypt’s Koshari to Saudi Arabia’s Mutabbaq, MENA street food offers a unique blend of history, culture, and unforgettable flavors. Each dish tells a story, inviting you to taste the heart of the region—one bite at a time.
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