Dinner in an Omani Fort

If you fancying trying some traditional, local food and in a restaurant that feels like an experience in itself, look no further than Rozna.

The restaurant is designed around traditional Omani architecture and heritage, with stone walls, arches, colourful cushions and private seating areas. It literally looks like a massive fort from the outside and inside is even more spectacular. I’ve never seen anything like it!

A small disclaimer: This wasn't a partnership or hosted visit. I paid for my own meal and wanted to share it because I really enjoyed the experience.

A mini virtual tour of Rozna

There are many different dining areas, the main one being furnished with tables and chairs, and smaller private rooms... that were not. All jokes aside, it was pretty busy so I was happy that one of those small rooms is all they could offer. It felt much more personal and traditional, where you sit on a carpet and enjoy the food in front of you.

I really loved how different it was from the restaurants you'll find around the more modern parts of Muscat.

A bloody great big feast

Ok firstly let me just clarify that all of this food was not just for me. I had made a friend prior and we went together.

We ordered the traditional Meat Qabuli, which Rozna currently lists as one of its signature typical dishes. It’s lamb or mutton served with spiced Qabuli rice: and the taste is out of this world!

Alongside this, we got some Omani bread, salad and a generous selection of dips and sauces to taste. Unfortunately, because this trip was a couple of years ago, I can't remember what every single little dish was, so I'm not going to pretend I can identify everything in the photo. But there’s no denying that it was a proper banquet, and I remember leaving very, very full, and extremely satisfied. Honest to God, it’s one of my favourite restaurant experiences to date, for the food, ambience and service combined.

Some dates to finish

A few things to know

  • Book ahead. The restaurant itself recommends reservations, and says it can fill up (which was my experience when I arrived). It also has regular seating and private rooms, like the one we had.

  • Come hungry! I think you saw why.

  • It's in Muscat, so it's easy to fit into an evening while you're exploring the city. The restaurant describes itself as being in the heart of Muscat.

  • I don't remember exactly what I paid, so I'd rather not invent a price. But I remember it was quite affordable (not more than €10-15 per main dish)