A cuisine built on rivers and trade
Iraq sits on the land of ancient Mesopotamia, and its food reflects thousands of years of farming between the Tigris and Euphrates. Expect generous use of rice, wheat, dates, lamb, freshwater fish, and warm spices like cardamom, turmeric, and dried lime.
Signature dishes to try
- Masgouf - Iraq's national dish: a butterflied river carp seasoned, then slow-grilled upright beside an open fire. Best eaten along Baghdad's Abu Nuwas Street by the Tigris.
- Quzi - whole roasted lamb served over spiced rice with almonds, raisins, and crispy bread; a centerpiece at weddings.
- Dolma - vine leaves, onions, and vegetables stuffed with rice and meat, simmered with a tangy tamarind or pomegranate sauce.
- Tashreeb - bread soaked in rich lamb or chicken broth, often eaten for breakfast.
- Kubba - bulgur or rice shells filled with spiced minced meat, fried or simmered; Mosul's flat baked version is famous.
Street food and quick bites
- Samoon - the diamond-shaped Iraqi bread from clay ovens, perfect with cheese or kebab.
- Kebab and tikka - charcoal-grilled lamb skewers served with grilled tomato, onion, and amba (tangy mango sauce).
- Falafel and shawarma - cheap, fast, and everywhere in Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil.
- Bamia - okra stew with lamb, a homestyle favorite.
What to drink
- Chai - strong black tea served sweet in small glass cups (istikan) is the heartbeat of Iraqi social life.
- Qishir and cardamom coffee - thick, aromatic, often poured at gatherings.
- Sharbat and jallab - sweet date-and-raisin or rose-and-grape drinks, refreshing in summer.
- Dolce and laban - salty yogurt drink that cools spicy meals.
Dining tips and etiquette
- Hospitality is sacred. If invited to a home, expect to be fed generously and refusing food can offend.
- Eat with your right hand when sharing communal dishes.
- A small tea or coffee after the meal is part of the ritual, so do not rush off.
- Tipping around 10 percent is appreciated in restaurants.
- Many areas are alcohol-restricted; ask discreetly rather than assume availability.
Stay connected in Iraq
A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online for maps, translation, and restaurant bookings across Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil with no roaming bills.