Rozna: A Culinary Journey into Oman's History

Architect Suliman Al Kindi's Award-Winning Design Fuses Fine Dining with Traditional Omani Architecture

The inspiration behind Rozna stems from Oman's deep-rooted traditional values and the desire to provide more than just a meal. The creators of Rozna aimed to deliver an immersive experience steeped in Omani culture, filling a gap in the fine-dining segment of the country. The restaurant's design, modeled after an ancient fort, is a testament to this vision.

From the outside, Rozna appears to be a fort, but step inside and you'll find a spacious central courtyard that can accommodate over 100 guests. For those seeking a more private dining experience, Rozna offers 30 private rooms, including two VIP rooms. These rooms cater to groups of varying sizes, all within a traditional setting.

To ensure authenticity, the design team visited numerous forts across Oman to understand their architectural nuances. The high ceilings, robust walls, narrow staircases, and heavy wooden doors were all recreated with meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant also features a falaj, a traditional Omani water channel, running around its outer perimeter, adding to its historical charm.

Technical specifications of Rozna further enhance its authenticity. The front facade features a large wooden carved door, flanked by two wooden canons. The restaurant also houses up to six underground shuwa pits for cooking meat to perfection. A variety of antiques placed around the restaurant and a banquet hall that can seat up to 500 guests add to the restaurant's allure.

Despite the challenges faced in sourcing materials to achieve an authentic look, the design team's efforts paid off. Some of the antique artifacts adorning the rooms were sourced from as far as Japan, a testament to Oman's ancient trade connections. Rozna's unique design and commitment to authenticity have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, the restaurant was awarded Silver in the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award.

With Rozna, Suliman Al Kindi and his team have created a unique space that not only serves delicious Omani cuisine but also offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and architectural heritage. This fusion of fine dining and traditional design sets Rozna apart, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.