When it comes to the street food Tripoli scene the city doesn’t quite have the same reputation as other North African locales like Marrakesh or Cairo. The city’s street food scene isn’t buzzing with the same intensity or variety you might find elsewhere in the region. But does that mean you should skip it altogether? Not exactly. Street food in Tripoli isn’t terrible, it’s just a bit underwhelming, mostly due to the harsh heat and the lack of a well-developed street food culture.
If you’re in Tripoli and on the hunt for something quick and tasty, you can certainly find a few decent bites in the Old Town, but you’ll need to adjust your expectations. While it’s true that street food in Tripoli is not the highlight of the city, there are still a few options worth mentioning.
Click to read about the best Libyan Drinks.
Why Street Food in Tripoli Is a Little Lackluster
The main factor holding back street food in Tripoli is the heat. The temperature here can be brutal, especially in the summer months, and that really affects the street food scene. With high temperatures, fresh ingredients can go off quickly, and food sitting out in the open for long hours can lose its appeal. Unfortunately, this means that many street food vendors don’t offer the same variety or quality that you’d expect in places like Marrakesh or Tunis, where the markets are more developed and food is served faster.
Another downside to Tripoli’s street food scene is the lack of variety. While you’ll find some classic street food options, it’s not quite as exciting or diverse as you’d hope. Nonetheless, there are still a few tasty options if you’re willing to take a chance.
Shawarma: A Solid Option
If there’s one thing that’s universally available and reliably good in Tripoli, it’s shawarma. Shawarma might not be the most exciting street food in the world, but it’s a classic and, in Tripoli, it’s generally done right. The tender, marinated lamb or chicken is cooked on a vertical rotisserie and then shaved off in thin slices, ready to be stuffed into pita bread with a mix of vegetables, tahini, and sometimes a bit of hot sauce. While this might sound like your typical shawarma, in Tripoli, it’s a safe bet when you need something quick, easy, and tasty.
The best part about shawarma is that you can find it almost everywhere. Whether you’re wandering through the Old Town or near one of the main squares, chances are you’ll spot a street vendor selling it. And if you’re really hungry, a shawarma wrap will fill you up without breaking the bank. Shawarma is a must-try in Tripoli, even though it’s not exactly a signature dish of the city—if you’re in the mood for something familiar and satisfying, it’s always a good choice.
Street Drinks: Tea and Coffee Everywhere
In terms of drinks, Tripoli doesn’t offer much beyond the basics. While other cities in the region may boast refreshing fruit juices and unique beverages, Tripoli’s street drink culture revolves around tea and coffee. These drinks are everywhere in the city, and for many locals, they are an essential part of daily life.
Tea is one of the most common street drinks you’ll find in Tripoli. Whether you’re in the Old Town or walking through one of the many busy squares, small vendors are serving up hot cups of shai (the Arabic word for tea). This tea is typically served strong, with sugar, and sometimes with mint to add a refreshing touch. While it’s not exactly the thirst-quenching drink you might crave in the heat, it’s a great way to relax and take a break from the hustle of the city.
Coffee is another staple in Tripoli, and it’s not hard to find small coffee vendors scattered around. The Libyan version of coffee isn’t too different from what you’d expect in other parts of the Middle East or North Africa. It’s a small, strong cup of black coffee that can be served either sweet or unsweetened. If you need a pick-me-up during your day of exploring, grabbing a quick coffee from one of the street vendors is an easy option.
Is Street Food Tripoli Worth It?
So, is street food in Tripoli worth seeking out? The short answer is: it depends. The variety may not be as exciting as other cities in the region, and the heat can affect the quality of the food you get. However, if you’re in Tripoli and craving something quick and easy, shawarma is a solid bet. It’s filling, it’s tasty, and it’s available pretty much everywhere. Tea and coffee are also an essential part of the street food scene, offering a chance to slow down and enjoy a cup while people-watching.
While the street food scene in Tripoli might not be the highlight of your visit, it’s still an experience worth exploring—especially if you’re curious about how the locals live. The vendors may not always be offering the most creative or fresh options, but sometimes a simple shawarma or a cup of tea is all you need to keep going in the sweltering heat of the Libyan capital.
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