best-places-to-eat-in-Sousse, Tunisia

Discovering the Flavors of Sousse: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat

Sousse, a coastal city in Tunisia, is a treasure trove of culinary delights. From traditional Tunisian dishes to fresh seafood, and from street food to upscale restaurants, Sousse has something to offer every palate. Here are the best places to eat in Sousse, with a focus on popular street food options.

Street Food Delights

1. Merguez Sandwiches

Merguez is a spicy Tunisian sausage, and when served in a crusty baguette with harissa, olives, and capers, it’s a flavor explosion. You’ll find vendors selling these delicious sandwiches at the Medina (Old City) and along the beach promenade.

2. Brik à l’Oeuf

This Tunisian staple is a must-try. A thin pastry pocket filled with tuna, capers, harissa, and a runny egg, brik à l’oeuf is crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. Find it at street food stalls or markets.

3. Fricassée

A hearty Tunisian dish made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and olive oil, fricassée is often served as a snack or light meal. You’ll find vendors selling it in small paper cones along the beachfront.

Restaurants

1. Le Pirate

Located near the Medina, Le Pirate serves up fresh seafood dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Try their grilled fish or seafood tagine for a flavorful and filling meal.

2. Dar El Jeld

This cozy restaurant in the heart of the Medina offers traditional Tunisian cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu features dishes like lamb couscous and brik à l’oeuf, all made with fresh, local ingredients.

3. Café de la Plage

This beachfront café is perfect for a light meal or snack. Try their shakshuka (a spicy egg dish) or grilled sandwiches, paired with a refreshing mint tea or coffee.

Markets and Food Shops

1. Souk El Ahad (Sunday Market)

Every Sunday, the Souk El Ahad market comes alive with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies like makroudh (date-filled cookies) and zalabia (fried doughnuts). It’s a great place to sample local flavors and stock up on snacks.

2. Marché Central

This bustling marketplace in the heart of Sousse offers a variety of food stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, nuts, and dried fruits. Try some local specialties like preserved lemons or harissa peppers.

Tips and Essentials

  • Be sure to try some local desserts like baklawa (a pastry filled with nuts and honey) or maakroud (date-filled cookies).
  • Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing mint tea or a strong Tunisian coffee.
  • When eating at street food stalls, be sure to follow proper food safety guidelines to avoid any health issues.
  • Sousse is a relatively affordable city, but prices can vary greatly depending on the location and type of establishment.

With its rich culinary heritage and abundance of fresh ingredients, Sousse is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy merguez sandwiches or fresh seafood dishes, this coastal Tunisian city has something to satisfy every craving.