Sharjah

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International Cuisine

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Guide to International Cuisine in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the cultural hubs of the UAE, offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that reflects its multicultural population. While the city is deeply rooted in Emirati traditions, it also embraces international cuisines, making it a fantastic destination for food lovers. Below is a comprehensive guide to exploring international cuisine in Sharjah.

Popular International Dishes Available in Sharjah

Sharjah’s international dining scene includes a wide variety of cuisines, from Middle Eastern and South Asian to European, East Asian, and American. Here are some popular dishes you can find:

  1. Middle Eastern Cuisine

    • Shawarma: A popular street food made with marinated meat (chicken or beef) wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce and pickles.
    • Hummus and Falafel: Staples of Levantine cuisine, often served as appetizers or part of a mezze platter.
    • Mixed Grill: A platter of grilled meats, including kebabs, lamb chops, and chicken tikka.

  2. Indian Cuisine

    • Butter Chicken: A creamy, mildly spiced curry served with naan or rice.
    • Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, or vegetables.
    • Dosa: A South Indian specialty, this is a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

  3. Pakistani Cuisine

    • Karahi: A spicy, tomato-based curry cooked with chicken or mutton.
    • Nihari: A slow-cooked stew made with beef or lamb, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast.

  4. Italian Cuisine

    • Pizza: Authentic wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings.
    • Pasta: Popular options include creamy Alfredo, tangy marinara, and pesto-based dishes.

  5. Chinese Cuisine

    • Dim Sum: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
    • Sweet and Sour Chicken: A classic dish with a tangy sauce.
    • Fried Rice and Noodles: Staples of Chinese dining, often customized with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

  6. American Cuisine

    • Burgers: Gourmet and fast-food options are widely available.
    • Steaks: High-quality cuts of beef served with sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables.

  7. Japanese Cuisine

    • Sushi and Sashimi: Fresh seafood served with rice or as raw slices.
    • Ramen: A flavorful noodle soup with toppings like egg, meat, and vegetables.

  8. Filipino Cuisine

    • Adobo: A savory dish made with chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
    • Lechon Kawali: Crispy fried pork belly served with dipping sauce.

Recommended Restaurants in Sharjah

Here are some top-rated restaurants offering international cuisine in Sharjah:

Middle Eastern Cuisine

  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Café

    • Location: Al Majaz Waterfront
    • Highlights: Traditional Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes in a heritage-inspired setting.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

  • Zahr El-Laymoun

    • Location: Al Qasba
    • Highlights: Lebanese cuisine with a modern twist, including mezze and grilled meats.
    • Price Range: AED 80–150 per person.

Indian and Pakistani Cuisine

  • Gazebo

    • Location: Multiple branches in Sharjah
    • Highlights: Authentic North Indian dishes, including biryanis and curries.
    • Price Range: AED 60–120 per person.

  • Lal Qila

    • Location: Al Majaz
    • Highlights: Pakistani buffet with a wide variety of traditional dishes.
    • Price Range: AED 80–150 per person.

Italian Cuisine

  • Sapori di BICE

    • Location: Zero 6 Mall
    • Highlights: Authentic Italian pizzas, pastas, and desserts.
    • Price Range: AED 100–200 per person.

  • PizzaExpress

    • Location: Al Majaz Waterfront
    • Highlights: Classic and gourmet pizzas in a casual setting.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

Chinese and East Asian Cuisine

  • Chowking

    • Location: Multiple branches in Sharjah
    • Highlights: Affordable Chinese-Filipino fusion dishes.
    • Price Range: AED 30–60 per person.

  • China Town Restaurant

    • Location: Al Wahda Street
    • Highlights: Authentic Chinese dishes, including dim sum and stir-fries.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

American Cuisine

  • Hardee’s

    • Location: Multiple branches in Sharjah
    • Highlights: Fast-food burgers and fries.
    • Price Range: AED 20–50 per person.

  • Texas Roadhouse

    • Location: Sahara Centre
    • Highlights: Steaks, ribs, and American comfort food.
    • Price Range: AED 100–200 per person.

Japanese Cuisine

  • Sushi Station

    • Location: Al Majaz Waterfront
    • Highlights: Sushi, sashimi, and Japanese appetizers.
    • Price Range: AED 80–150 per person.

  • YO! Sushi

    • Location: Sahara Centre
    • Highlights: Conveyor-belt sushi and Japanese street food.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

Filipino Cuisine

  • Max’s Restaurant

    • Location: Al Majaz Waterfront
    • Highlights: Filipino comfort food, including fried chicken and adobo.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

  • Kuya Juan

    • Location: Al Nahda
    • Highlights: Traditional Filipino dishes in a cozy setting.
    • Price Range: AED 50–100 per person.

Price Ranges

  • Budget-Friendly: AED 20–50 per person (e.g., fast food, casual dining).
  • Mid-Range: AED 50–150 per person (e.g., family restaurants, buffets).
  • Fine Dining: AED 150–300+ per person (e.g., upscale restaurants, specialty cuisines).

Dining Customs and Etiquette in Sharjah

  1. Respect for Local Culture:

    • Sharjah is more conservative than other emirates like Dubai. Dress modestly when dining out, especially in family-friendly areas.

  2. Halal Food:

    • All food served in Sharjah is halal, in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. Pork and alcohol are not served in most restaurants.

  3. Tipping:

    • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A tip of 10–15% is common in mid-range and fine-dining establishments.

  4. Family-Friendly Environment:

    • Many restaurants cater to families, with separate seating areas for families and singles in some places.

  5. Meal Times:

    • Lunch is typically served between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, while dinner starts around 7:00 PM. Some restaurants may close during the afternoon.

  6. Ramadan Considerations:

    • During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. However, many restaurants offer takeaway and delivery services during this time.

Local Tips for Enjoying the Food Scene

  • Explore Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Qasba: These areas are culinary hotspots with a variety of international restaurants and scenic views.
  • Try Delivery Apps: Apps like Zomato, Talabat, and Deliveroo are widely used for food delivery and offer discounts.
  • Visit Food Festivals: Sharjah hosts food festivals and cultural events where you can sample international cuisines.
  • Ask for Recommendations: Locals and expats are often happy to share their favorite dining spots.

Sharjah’s international food scene is a reflection of its diverse community, offering something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving Middle Eastern mezze, Indian curries, or Japanese sushi, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy your culinary journey in Sharjah!