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Dining
Dining
Local Food: Share Meals
Share Stories
SimSem’s dining experiences in the Middle East go beyond just satisfying your taste buds. They offer a gateway to the heart and soul of the region. Picture yourself sitting around a table, surrounded by warm hospitality and the aromas of freshly prepared dishes. As you share a meal with Middle Eastern locals, you’ll not only taste the flavors of the region but also discover the stories behind the recipes, the cultural significance of the ingredients, and the traditions that have shaped Middle Eastern cuisine. SimSem’s curated dining experiences provide a genuine and intimate connection with the local community, fostering cross-cultural understanding and creating lasting memories that will stay with you long after the last bite.
Cook and Enjoy Meals with Locals
What our Travelers Say
Maya Lawson
Taking Ibrahim’s walking tour through Amman’s markets via Simsem was a real treat! We explored bustling markets, tasted delicious Arabic treats, and learned so much about local customs. Ibrahim’s enthusiasm and knowledge made it a memorable experience. I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Amman!
Ava Thompson
Exploring Lebanon through Simsem was a cultural immersion. Engaging with local cultural hubs and experiencing their traditions added richness to my trip.
Adam Hudson
Simsem made my Turkish journey more about the people than the places. Engaging with locals was enlightening. The emphasis on authentic connections offered a different angle. Will definitely go back and use this app again!
Sophie Griffiths
Dining with Ala through Simsem was an absolute delight! Ala’s warm hospitality, coupled with delicious Jordanian cuisine, made for an unforgettable evening. The authentic flavors and engaging conversation provided a true taste of Jordanian culture. Highly recommend!
Emily Johnson
Simsem shaped our family’s first journey to the Middle East! As newcomers to this vibrant region, the app became our trusted companion for authentic connections during our trip to Jordan.
Michael Patel
Journey of a lifetime with Khaled! Sailing from Aswan to Abu Simbel on Lake Nasser was beyond words. Ancient temples, divine meals, and two days without phones—truly unforgettable
John D.
Absolutely phenomenal experience! From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, providing fascinating insights into the history and significance of the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx. The camel ride and ATV quad bikes were exhilarating additions, offering unique perspectives of these iconic landmarks. Lunch was delicious, and the overall tour exceeded all expectations. Highly recommend
Mary D.
Absolutely stunning experience! The Nile cruise aboard the Andrea Maady boat was a highlight of my trip to Cairo. The Egyptian dinner was mouthwatering, and the entertainment was mesmerizing. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend an evening in Egypt!
Emily W.
Discover the Rich Flavor of The Middle East
Essential Ingredients
Locals food in the Middle East is known for its use of fresh ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and meats. Some of the essential ingredients in Middle Eastern cuisine include eggplant, cucumber, tomato, chickpeas, parsley, mint, coriander, lamb, beef, and chicken. These ingredients are used to create a variety of dishes and locals food, from hearty stews to flavorful dips.
Spices and seasonings are a crucial component of Middle Eastern cuisine. The region is known for its use of bold spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which are used to add depth and flavor to meat dishes. Sweet spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are used in desserts, local food and sweet dishes. Locals food is always blended with spices, creating complex flavors that are both savory and sweet.
Insights From Our Locals
Embrace the Tradition of Hospitality While Testing Local Food
Middle Eastern culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality. Local take pride in welcoming guests warmly and generously.
When dining with locals, expect to be treated like family. It’s customary to accept offerings of tea, coffee, or small snacks as a gesture of friendship.
Embrace this tradition and local food. Be open to engaging in friendly conversations with your hosts.
Explore the Local Street Food Scene
Urban centers in the Middle East burst with vibrant street food scenes. Locals flock to street vendors and bustling markets for budget-friendly, mouthwatering meals.
Don’t miss the chance to sample beloved street eats like falafel, shawarma, or manakish (a flatbread adorned with various toppings). Such unmissable local food you need to savor!
Be adventurous and uncover the diverse flavors of these popular street snacks. Get your guide now on Simsem!
Respect Cultural Norms and Etiquette
Dining in the Middle East comes with its own set of customs and etiquette that should be observed. Yes, you can taste local food, but you need to know some essentials.
These may include using your right hand for eating, removing your shoes when entering homes, and dressing modestly, especially in more conservative areas.
Learning a few basic Arabic phrases, such as “thank you” (shukran) and “hello” (marhaba), can demonstrate respect for the local culture.
Discover the Diverse Tastes of Middle Eastern Cuisine
Middle Eastern cuisine boasts a rich tapestry of flavors. Each sub region showcases its own culinary specialties, local food, and distinctive dishes.
Local encourage visitors to venture beyond the familiar and savor the unique tastes of regional fare. Whether it’s the aromatic biryanis of the Persian Gulf, the zesty cuisine of North Africa, or the savory kebabs of the Levant, a world of diverse and delectable flavors awaits exploration.
Get connected with locals on Simsem and explore all the off-beaten-track spots!
Ready to Discover the middle east?
Download Simsem Now!
Join thousands of travelers who have unlocked the best of the Middle East by downloading the Simsem app.
SimSem, your key to Middle Eastern magic, invites you to discover hidden treasures. Explore local experiences, from city tours to family dinners. Immerse yourself in Middle Eastern culture and support local communities. Download the app and start your authentic Middle Eastern journey.
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