As the holy month of Ramadhan approaches, Muscat’s hospitality scene is abuzz with anticipation as hotels unveil their latest offerings for Iftar, marking a significant aspect of the sacred season. In a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, hotels across the city are redefining the Iftar experience to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of guests.
Iftar, the evening meal with which Muslims break their fast during Ramadhan, holds profound significance in Islamic culture. Beyond its religious importance, it symbolizes unity, generosity, and community spirit. It’s a time when families, friends, and communities come together to share in the blessings of the season.
This year, Muscat’s hotels are taking their Iftar offerings to new heights, blending traditional dishes with contemporary twists and elevating the dining experience for guests. From lavish buffets featuring classic Omani specialties to innovative fusion cuisines that pay homage to global flavors, there’s something to delight every palate.
Among the latest trends in Iftar offerings across Muscat’s hotels, fusion flavors are taking center stage. Hotels are blending traditional Omani dishes with international influences, crafting exciting culinary fusions that reflect the city’s multiculturalism. Moreover, there’s a notable shift towards health-conscious choices, with hotels incorporating more nutritious options into their Iftar menus. This trend caters to guests with dietary preferences and restrictions, aligning with the increasing focus on health and wellness. In addition, interactive dining experiences are gaining popularity, as many hotels introduce live cooking stations and interactive culinary experiences. These initiatives allow guests to engage with chefs and customize their meals according to their preferences, enhancing the overall dining experience. Sustainability is also at the forefront of Iftar offerings, with hotels implementing practices such as sourcing local ingredients and reducing food waste. Lastly, hotels are creating a family-friendly atmosphere by offering special activities and entertainment for children, ensuring that Iftar becomes a memorable experience for guests of all ages.
Exceptional Collection of Ramadhan Experiences
Among the different hotels in the country, there is always an eager anticipation as to what luxury hotels will offer. Every year, the luxurious Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel always deliver and this remains true this year.
At Al Khiran Kitchen, guests can embark on an exceptional Iftar culinary journey for OMR 26 net per person. Featuring an array of cuisines from Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, Morocco, and beyond, this experience promises a feast for the senses.
In addition to a large selection of international delicacies, the famous Ramadhan buffet at the palace boasts signature dishes such as assorted mezzes and salads from Lebanon, Omani Shuwa, Turkish Doner Kebab, Lahmajoon and Pide. Additionally, live stations offer a variety of Iranian kebabs, spicy curries, and traditional Omani dishes. The dessert buffet is a “to die for” spot for the ones who have a sweet tooth. Guests can enjoy the extravaganza of sweets from Turkish delights and housemade Baklava to freshly baked kunafa and unique ice cream flavors. The Iftar experience at the Palace is crowned with a live oriental music trio performance from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm everyday.
Those seeking intimate Iftar experience can reserve a private cabana by the pool for an additional OMR 30 net per cabana. These cabanas, accommodating 4 to 8 guests, offering privacy in a palatial garden, including a food presentation of mezzes, dates, dry fruits and nuts, and refreshing Ramadhan beverages.
The hotel’s famous ‘Layali Ramadhan’ at The Pavilion Gardens presents a special Suhoor experience from 8:30 pm to 2:00 am. Guests can relish traditional dishes like shish tawook, kebab meshui and lahem meshui, accompanied by assorted hot and cold mezzeh selections. Daily entertainment from 9:30 pm to midnight adds to the ambiance, creating unforgettable moments under the stars.
At Shangrila Barr al Jissah, Al Tanoor restaurant is serving a delicious iftar buffet featuring a host of delectable traditional Ramadhan delicacies inspired by local, regional, and international cuisines. The extensive buffet offered at OMR 24 net per person showcase live and a la minute stations including hot and cold mezze, omani specials and a variety of regional dishes. The night also includes live entertainment such as oud players.
This year, Layali has also become bigger with two seating ambiences where guests can choose between Layali Ramadhan tent or their newly launched Si)2 Beach lounge. For those looking for specialised dishes, Aangan by Rohit Ghai offers Indian Iftar and contiunuing the trend, they aslo offer private cabanas for iftar and suhoor.
Some of the other offerings to watch out for are the buffet iftar offered by Sheraton, Jumeirah Muscat Bay, and JW Marriott Muscat. These properties put their unique touches to iftar and suhoor and not only do they mix well some Arabic and Omani favorites but also lots of international flavours in the mix.
Looking around at some of the stand-alone restaurants, it is amazing to see that all efforts are also made to provide a diverse culinary experience. Not only are the venues geared up with all Ramadhan lightings, but the ambience are totally transformed to depict the spirit of the season.
As Muscat’s hotels gear up to host Iftar gatherings throughout Ramadhan, they invite residents and visitors alike to join them in celebrating the spirit of the season and experiencing the warmth of Omani hospitality.
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