Wednesday 04 / March / 2026
Muscat —Musandam Restaurant at InterContinental Muscat has begun welcoming guests for its Ramadan iftar, offering a spiritually rich dining experience that captures the essence of the holy month.
From the moment visitors step into the restaurant’s indoor hall, Ramadan decor adorned with crescent motifs and warm golden lights sets the tone. The ambience extends to the outdoor courtyard — a landscaped garden framed by arched openings reminiscent of traditional Islamic architecture — where intricate patterns blend harmoniously with the building’s design. At the heart of the setting stands a grand illuminated crescent, creating a striking focal point that evokes reflection and serenity. The experience begins well before guests reach the buffet, paving the way for a culinary journey marked by variety and tradition.
The iftar spread opens with dates, dried fruits and traditional Ramadan beverages, including fresh laban and chilled juices, allowing guests to gently break their fast before heading to prayer. The restaurant has allocated spacious halls and facilities to accommodate large numbers of guests from both genders.
Upon returning, diners are greeted by an expansive open buffet that combines carefully prepared dishes with live cooking stations. Omani hands skillfully prepare freshly baked mandazi and qaroos breads, while shawarma, Levantine pastries and liver are cooked live on the saj. The selection further includes seafood grills, marinated meats, a signature shuwa-style lamb tray, harees, a variety of rice dishes and slow-cooked meats perfected over gentle heat. The colourful display and aromatic offerings reflect meticulous attention to detail and culinary craftsmanship.
At the start of the holy month, Chef Ali al Juma showcase that this year’s Ramadan menu, allowing guests to enjoy familiar favourites alongside newly introduced dishes inspired by family recipes that date back centuries. Among them is “Basmeshkat,” a traditional dish with nearly three centuries of history.
He noted that the vision is to preserve authentic flavours while presenting them through modern cooking techniques that enhance nutritional value and visual appeal. The menu also features a selection of Levantine appetisers and main courses, including hummus in innovative variations such as avocado-infused hummus, assorted mahashi and Aleppian cherry kebab, alongside heritage dishes reimagined without compromising their essence.
The culinary journey concludes with an array of Ramadan desserts, including Um Ali, baklava and more than 10 varieties of traditional pastries. Guests can also enjoy dried fruits dipped into a cascading white chocolate fountain, as well as fresh seasonal fruits — a fitting finale to a table abundant with the spirit of Ramadan.
Commenting on the preparations, Sebastian Thomas, General Manager of the InterContinental Muscat, said, “This year, we were keen to deliver a comprehensive Ramadan experience that combines authentic flavours, warm hospitality and the spirit of the holy month. The experience goes beyond the diversity of dishes to encompass every detail of the setting and service.”
He added, “The menu has been carefully curated to reflect the essence of the traditional Ramadan table, while incorporating modern touches that offer variety and cater to different tastes. We rely on fresh, high-quality ingredients and focus on balanced dishes suited to both iftar and suhoor.”
Meanwhile, Austen Reid, Executive chef at the InterContinental Muscat, emphasised that the restaurant’s culinary direction is led by Chef Ali al Juma, whose expertise and dedication to preserving authentic Omani and regional flavours play a central role in shaping this year’s Ramadan offering.
The restaurant has been adorned with decor inspired by Arab and Islamic heritage, including lanterns, traditional ornaments and soft lighting that create a calm and intimate atmosphere. Musandam Restaurant welcomes guests daily for iftar from Maghrib until late evening, while suhoor service continues until just before Fajr, offering a comfortable setting for families and individuals alike.
The management concluded by inviting the public to enjoy memorable Ramadan evenings that combine fine cuisine, gracious hospitality and the cherished spirit of the holy month.
Adults: 25 OMR NET | Kids under 5: Free | Kids aged 6-12: 12 OMR NET
Reservations and Inquiries: 9137 3243 | 2468 0000
