Are you planning a trip to Kuwait or just curious about the country’s delicious cuisine? 😋 Experience the rich aroma of Machboos. Enjoy the delicate delight of Mutabbaq Zubaidi. Kuwait’s food scene is a tantalizing fusion of traditional Arab flavors. It incorporates Gulf influences and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious dining experience, this guide will take you through the best Kuwaiti dishes. If you’re looking to explore Kuwaiti street food, it will show you exactly where to eat them.

🌟 Why Kuwaiti Cuisine Deserves the Spotlight

Kuwaiti food is a celebration of Bedouin traditions. It includes seafood treasures and Persian-Indian influences. These elements are shaped by its location along the Arabian Gulf. The cuisine features slow-cooked rice dishes. It also offers hearty stews, fresh seafood, and sweet desserts. These dishes reflect the warmth and generosity of Kuwaiti hospitality. 🍚🐟🫓

Let’s dive fork-first into authentic Kuwaiti dishes and explore the best restaurants in Kuwait to experience them!

🥘 1. Machboos (Kuwait’s National Dish)

Focus Keywords: Machboos, Kuwaiti National Dish, traditional Kuwaiti rice dish

What it is:
Machboos (also spelled Majboos) is the crown jewel of Kuwaiti cuisine. It is a spiced rice dish. It is cooked with slow-braised meat such as chicken, lamb, or even camel. It includes saffron, dried lemon (loomi), and Gulf spices. The rice is fluffy and aromatic, while the meat is tender and flavorful. The dish is typically served with Daqoos, a garlicky tomato sauce. 🍗🍅

Where to eat Machboos in Kuwait:

• Freej Swaileh (Salmiya) – A popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Their lamb Machboos is legendary. 🐑
• Al Boom Steak & Seafood Restaurant (Sas Hotel) – The restaurant is known for Machboos with a fine-dining twist. It is located inside a traditional dhow boat!
• Souk Al-Mubarakiya Food Court – For a more traditional, home-cooked feel in the heart of old Kuwait.

🐟 2. Mutabbaq Zubaidi (Pomfret Fish with Rice)

Focus Keywords: Mutabbaq Zubaidi, Kuwaiti fish dish, pomfret fish Kuwait

What it is:
Mutabbaq Zubaidi is a classic seafood rice dish. Silver pomfret (Zubaidi) is either fried or grilled. It is served atop seasoned rice with caramelized onions, saffron, and raisins. This dish showcases Kuwait’s deep connection to the sea and is a Friday lunch favorite in many households. 🐟🍋

Where to eat Mutabbaq Zubaidi in Kuwait:

• Sharq Market Seafood Hall (Sharq Fish Market) – Choose your own Zubaidi and have it cooked on-site.
• Beit Dickson (Salmiya) – A heritage restaurant serving authentic Kuwaiti fish dishes in a traditional house.
• Al-Marsa Seafood Restaurant – Their Mutabbaq Zubaidi has the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat.

🐫 3. Jireesh (Cracked Wheat with Chicken or Lamb)

Focus Keywords: Jireesh, traditional Kuwaiti porridge, Kuwaiti wheat dish

What it is:
Jireesh is a comforting Kuwaiti porridge-like dish. It is made from cracked wheat. It’s cooked slowly with meat (usually chicken), tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s creamy and filling—like a Gulf version of risotto—and often served during Ramadan or family gatherings. 🌾🍲

Where to eat Jireesh in Kuwait:

• Sadu House Café – Located in a cultural museum, offering an authentic and peaceful setting.
• Khaneen Restaurant (Multiple Locations) – Well-known for preserving traditional Kuwaiti recipes.
• Al-Mubarakiya Traditional Kitchen – Experience Jireesh like it’s made at home.

🍤 4. Murabyan (Spiced Shrimp Rice)

Focus Keywords: Murabyan, Kuwaiti shrimp rice, traditional seafood dish Kuwait

What it is:
Murabyan is a mouthwatering shrimp and rice dish infused with onions, dried black lime, ginger, and garlic. The shrimps are cooked in spiced broth that flavors the rice, making it incredibly savory and aromatic. 🍤🌶️

Where to eat Murabyan in Kuwait:

• Seafood Grill – Salmiya – Known for their fresh catch and flavorful Murabyan.
• Al Khiran Resort Restaurants – Enjoy it by the sea for an immersive coastal vibe.
• Dar Hamad – A modern setting for traditional dishes, offering upscale Kuwaiti cuisine.

🥟 5. Samboosa (Kuwaiti Samosas)

Focus Keywords: Kuwaiti samboosa, traditional Ramadan food Kuwait

What it is:
Samboosa are triangular pastry pockets. They are stuffed with either spiced vegetables, cheese, or minced meat. They are deep-fried until golden and crispy. Though originally Indian in origin, they’ve been beautifully adapted in Kuwaiti kitchens—especially during Ramadan iftars. 🥟🧀

Where to eat Samboosa in Kuwait:

• Street vendors near Al-Mubarakiya Souq – Try them hot and fresh!
• Traditional bakeries in Hawally and Salmiya – Best known for cheese and spinach fillings.
• Qout Market (during Ramadan) – A high-end market with gourmet takes on samboosa.

🍲 6. Harees (Wheat & Meat Porridge)

Focus Keywords: Harees Kuwait, traditional Kuwaiti Ramadan food, wheat porridge Kuwait

What it is:
A rich dish made of wheat and meat (chicken or lamb). It is slow-cooked until everything blends into a soft, almost custard-like texture. Harees is especially popular during Ramadan and Eid, often topped with ghee for extra richness. 🍖🌾

Where to eat Harees in Kuwait:

• Ramadan tents of major hotels like The Regency or Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel
• Home-style kitchens like Al-Sadu Traditional Kitchen
• Kuwaiti homes during Eid—if you get invited, don’t say no! 😄

🍢 7. Kebabs & Grilled Meats (Mashawi)

Focus Keywords: Kuwaiti kebabs, grilled meats Kuwait, Gulf barbecue

What it is:
Grilled meat skewers like lamb kebabs, kofta, and shish taouk are always crowd-pleasers. These dishes come with khubz (flatbread), hummus, tahini, and pickled veggies. Grilling is a big part of Kuwaiti gatherings and seaside barbecues. 🔥🍢

Where to eat Kebabs in Kuwait:

• Shater Abbas (Iranian-Kuwaiti fusion) – Affordable, flavorful kebabs.
• Mais Alghanim (Gulf Road) – A family-friendly favorite with a huge variety of grilled meats.
• Kebabji (Marina Crescent) – Great views and even better skewers.

🍰 8. Gers Ogaily (Kuwaiti Saffron Cake)

Focus Keywords: Kuwaiti desserts, Gers Ogaily, saffron cardamom cake

What it is:
This saffron and cardamom-infused sponge cake is soft, fragrant, and slightly sweet—often served with tea. It’s a traditional dessert baked for special occasions like weddings or Eid. 🎂🍰

Where to eat Gers Ogaily in Kuwait:

• Cake & Bake (various locations) – Offers traditional flavors with a modern twist.
• Traditional home bakeries in Kuwait City
• B+F Open Flame Kitchen – Known for modern presentations of traditional sweets.

🧁 9. Khabees (Sweet Wheat Halwa)

Focus Keywords: Khabees Kuwait, Kuwaiti halwa, traditional Kuwaiti sweets

What it is:
A sweet dessert made from roasted flour, sugar, spices, and ghee, giving it a halwa-like texture. Sometimes garnished with nuts and saffron, Khabees is rich, sticky, and soulful. 🍮🌰

Where to eat Khabees in Kuwait:

• Sweets shops in Al-Qurain Market
• Hala February Festival food stalls
• Souq Al-Mubarakiya Dessert Stalls

🍛 10. Tashreeb (Bread Soaked Stew)

Focus Keywords: Tashreeb Kuwait, traditional stew Kuwait, Kuwaiti bread dish

What it is:
Tashreeb is a hearty stew. In this dish, pieces of flatbread are soaked in rich meat broth, chickpeas, and vegetables. It’s humble yet deeply flavorful—a dish meant to warm the soul. 🫓🥘

Where to eat Tashreeb in Kuwait:

• Al Mayass (Kuwaiti-Lebanese fusion)
• Cultural events and food festivals
• Home-style diners in Jahra and Farwaniya

🍢 11. Kuwaiti Kebabs (Tikka & Kofta)

What Are Kuwaiti Kebabs?

Unlike Persian or Turkish kebabs, Kuwaiti kebabs are marinated in tangy spices, lemon, and sometimes yogurt, then grilled to perfection.

Why You Should Try Them

• Juicy and full of flavor.
• Often served with Kuboos (Arabic bread) and hummus.
• Best enjoyed as street food or in local grills.

Best Places to Eat Kuwaiti Kebabs

📍 Shivaz Restaurant – Famous for spicy beef tikka.
📍 Shawarma House – Offers delicious chicken kofta kebabs.
📍 Al-Mubarakiya Street Stalls – Affordable and flavorful.

🥙 12. Balaleet (Sweet Vermicelli & Omelet)

What Is Balaleet?

A unique sweet-savory breakfast dish made with vermicelli noodles, sugar, cardamom, and topped with an omelet.

Why You Should Try It

• The contrast of sweet noodles and fluffy eggs is divine.
• A popular breakfast in Kuwaiti households.
• Best paired with Karak tea.

Best Places to Eat Balaleet

📍 Al-Abraj Restaurant – Serves authentic Balaleet.
📍 Breakfast at Four Seasons Kuwait – A luxurious version.
📍 Local cafeterias – Many serve it fresh in the morning.

🍗 13. Margoog (Spiced Meat & Vegetable Stew)

What Is Margoog?

A hearty stew made with lamb or chicken, vegetables, and thin dough strips, simmered in a rich, spiced broth.

Why You Should Try It

• Warming and filling—perfect for cooler days.
• The dough strips add a unique texture.
• A traditional family dish in Kuwait.

Best Places to Eat Margoog

📍 Dar Hamad – Known for homestyle Margoog.
📍 Al-Makan Restaurant – Offers a modern twist.
📍 Local Kuwaiti eateries – Many serve it as a daily special.

🍧 14. Luqaimat (Sweet Fried Dumplings)

What Is Luqaimat?

Golden, crispy dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey, often enjoyed during Ramadan and celebrations.

Why You Should Try It

• Crunchy outside, soft inside.
• The sweet syrup makes it addictive.
• A must-try Kuwaiti dessert.

Best Places to Eat Luqaimat

📍 Sweets Corner in Souq Al-Mubarakiya – Freshly fried daily.
📍 Al-Babtain Sweets – Famous for perfectly crispy Luqaimat.
📍 Ramadan tents – Served hot & fresh during Ramadan.

🥤 15. Kuwaiti Karak Tea (The Perfect Drink)

What Is Karak Tea?

A creamy, spiced tea made with condensed milk, cardamom, and saffron, often enjoyed with dates or pastries.

Why You Should Try It

• The best companion to Kuwaiti snacks.
• Strong, sweet, and aromatic.
• Found at almost every street corner.

Best Places to Drink Karak Tea

📍 TEAZ Café – Famous for premium Karak.
📍 Any local “diwaniya” (Kuwaiti gathering spot) – Served traditionally.
📍 Street-side tea stalls – The most authentic experience.

🚚 Bonus: Best Places for Kuwaiti Street Food

Focus Keywords: Kuwaiti street food, where to eat in Kuwait, traditional Kuwaiti snacks

Explore these street food havens:

• Souk Al-Mubarakiya (Kuwait City):
  The ultimate food lover’s destination! Try grilled corn, lamb skewers, samboosa, and karak tea under lantern-lit arcades. 🏮🍢
• Friday Market (Al Rai):
  The market is a chaotic yet vibrant weekend bazaar. You can munch on Mutabbaq (stuffed pancake) and enjoy Falafel sandwiches there.
• Mahboula Seaside Corniche:
  Local stalls pop up serving snacks like fried shrimp, grilled fish, and traditional desserts with sea views.

☕ Must-Try Kuwaiti Beverages

Focus Keywords: Kuwaiti drinks, Arabic coffee Kuwait, refreshing drinks Kuwait

• Gahwa (Arabic Coffee):
  Served in small cups with dates, this cardamom-scented drink is more than a beverage—it’s a ritual. ☕
• Laban:
  A cool, salty yogurt drink to beat the desert heat. 🥤
• Vimto (During Ramadan):
  The sweet, fruity drink is a seasonal favorite found on every Kuwaiti Iftar table. 🍇

🍽 Where to Eat the Best Kuwaiti Food: Top Restaurants & Street Food Spots

1. Souq Al-Mubarakiya (Best for Street Food & Traditional Dishes)

• Must-try stalls: Fresh fish fry, Luqaimat, Balaleet.
• Best time to visit: Evenings for a lively atmosphere.

2. Freej Swaileh (Best for Authentic Machboos & Harees)

• Why go? Family-style dining with homely flavors.

3. Al Boom Steak & Seafood (Best for Luxury Kuwaiti Dining)

• Why go? High-end seafood Machboos & grilled dishes.

4. Dar Hamad (Best for Traditional Home Cooking)

• Why go? Authentic Margoog & Harees in a cozy setting.

5. TEAZ Café (Best for Karak Tea & Snacks)

• Why go? Modern twist on traditional tea.

🍴 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kuwaiti Cuisine

1. What is the national dish of Kuwait?

✅ Answer: The national dish of Kuwait is Machboos (also called Kabsa), a fragrant spiced rice dish made with chicken, lamb, or fish, cooked with turmeric, saffron, and dried lemon. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Kuwait!

2. Where can I find the best street food in Kuwait?

✅ Answer: The best street food can be found at:

• Souq Al-Mubarakiya (for fresh seafood, kebabs, and sweets)
• Al-Maidan Hawally (for shawarma and grilled meats)
• Beirut Street (for falafel and Middle Eastern snacks)

3. What is the best time to visit Kuwait for food lovers?

✅ Answer: The best time is during Ramadan and Eid, when special dishes like Harees, Luqaimat, and Balaleet are widely available. Many restaurants and tents serve exclusive seasonal meals.

4. Is Kuwaiti food spicy?

✅ Answer: Kuwaiti food is flavorful but not extremely spicy. Dishes like Machboos and Mutabbaq Zubaidi use mild spices like turmeric, cardamom, and saffron. However, some kebabs and sauces can be spicy—always ask before ordering!

5. What is a must-try dessert in Kuwait?

✅ Answer: You must try:

• Luqaimat (fried dumplings with syrup)
• Gers Ogaily (cardamom-scented sponge cake)
• Kunafa (cheesy pastry with sugar syrup)

6. Where can I try authentic Kuwaiti seafood?

✅ Answer: The best places for seafood are:

• Al-Marsa Restaurant (for grilled fish and shrimp)
• Sayad Seafood (for upscale seafood dining)
• Souq Al-Mubarakiya Fish Market (for fresh, fried fish)

7. What is Kuwaiti Karak tea, and where can I get it?

✅ Answer: Karak tea is a creamy, spiced tea made with cardamom, saffron, and condensed milk. You can find it at:

• TEAZ Café (modern version)
• Local tea stalls (traditional style)
• Any Kuwaiti “diwaniya” (gathering place)

8. Are there vegetarian options in Kuwaiti cuisine?

✅ Answer: Yes! Try:

• Balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs)
• Falafel & Hummus (common street food)
• Vegetable Margoog (a stew with dough strips)

9. What is the best restaurant for traditional Kuwaiti food?

✅ Answer: The top picks are:

• Freej Swaileh (for Machboos and Harees)
• Dar Hamad (for home-style Kuwaiti dishes)
• Al Boom Steak & Seafood (for luxury dining)

10. How much does a typical Kuwaiti meal cost?

✅ Answer: Prices vary:

• Street food: 1-3 KWD ($3-$10)
• Mid-range restaurants: 5-10 KWD ($16-$33)
• High-end dining: 15+ KWD ($50+)

11. What is the best drink to pair with Kuwaiti food?

✅ Answer: The best drink is Karak tea, but you can also try:

• Labaan (Ayran) – A salty yogurt drink
• Jallab – A sweet date and rose syrup drink
• Arabic coffee (Gahwa) – Served with dates

12. Can I find halal food easily in Kuwait?

✅ Answer: Yes! Almost all food in Kuwait is halal, including street food, restaurants, and supermarkets. Pork is not served in most places.

13. What is the most unique Kuwaiti dish?

✅ Answer: Balaleet (sweet vermicelli with omelet) is one of the most unique because of its sweet-savory combination. Another rare dish is Margoog, a meat and dough stew.

14. Do I need to tip in Kuwaiti restaurants?

✅ Answer: Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated. A 5-10% tip is common in restaurants, while street vendors usually don’t expect tips.

15. What should I eat for breakfast in Kuwait?

✅ Answer: Try these classic breakfast dishes:

• Balaleet (sweet noodles with eggs)
• Chabab (Kuwaiti pancakes) with date syrup
• Foul Medames (spiced fava beans)

🌟 Final Thoughts: Kuwaiti Cuisine Is a Hidden Gem

From spicy Machboos to sweet Luqaimat, Kuwaiti food offers bold flavors, rich traditions, and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re exploring high-end restaurants or bustling street markets, every bite tells a story.

Pro Tip: Visit during Ramadan or Eid for the ultimate Kuwaiti food experience—many special dishes are only served then!

🇰🇼 Ready to Eat Your Way Through Kuwait?

Bookmark this guide, grab your appetite, and dive into Kuwait’s delicious culinary world! 🍽✨