Syria is not only famous for its rich history and delicious food but also for its refreshing and unique drinks. Whether you’re wandering through the old souks, sitting in a traditional café, or visiting during Ramadan, there’s always a special drink waiting for you. Here are 13 of the most popular drinks in Syria, along with when and how we enjoy them.
1. Arak
This is Syria’s traditional alcoholic drink, a strong anise-flavored spirit made from distilled grapes. It turns a milky white when mixed with water and is usually served with mezze, especially grilled meat and kibbeh. Arak is for celebrations and gatherings, and you’ll often see it at weddings or family feasts. It has a strong kick, so it’s usually sipped slowly while enjoying long conversations with friends and family.
2. Jallab
A popular summer drink made from grape molasses, rose water, and dates, served over crushed ice with pine nuts and raisins. You’ll find it in juice shops and at home, especially during Ramadan, as it helps with hydration after a long day of fasting. The combination of sweetness and nuttiness makes it a perfect drink to cool down during the hot summer months.
3. Tut Shami (Syrian Mulberry Juice)
This dark red, sweet juice is made from mulberries and has a deep, refreshing flavor. It’s especially popular in the summer, and you’ll often find vendors selling it in the streets of Damascus and Aleppo. Mulberries are packed with antioxidants, making this drink not only delicious but also healthy. Many families make it at home when mulberries are in season.
4. Ma Ward (Rose Water Drink)
A light and fragrant drink made by mixing rose water with cold water and sugar. It’s served in traditional gatherings and sometimes as a welcome drink in Syrian homes. It’s best enjoyed in spring and summer when the roses are in full bloom. The gentle floral aroma makes it a refreshing and calming drink, perfect for warm evenings.
5. Sahlab
A thick, warm drink made from orchid root powder, milk, sugar, and flavored with cinnamon and nuts. This is the ultimate winter drink, perfect for warming up on chilly nights in Damascus or Aleppo. The texture is creamy and smooth, almost like a pudding, and it’s often topped with shredded coconut and crushed pistachios for extra richness.
6. Yerba Mateh
Originally from Argentina but loved by Syrians, especially in the mountains and coastal areas. It’s a strong herbal tea, sipped through a metal straw (bombilla), and is more of a social drink enjoyed among friends and family any time of the day. It has a slightly bitter taste, and many people sweeten it with honey or sugar. Drinking mateh is often a ritual in Syrian homes, passed around in a shared gourd.
7. Licorice (Erq Sous)
A dark, slightly bitter drink made from licorice root, often sold by vendors carrying big metal jugs in the streets. It’s a natural thirst quencher and is especially popular in Ramadan. Licorice is known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion and soothing sore throats. Some people love its strong, earthy taste, while others find it an acquired flavor.
8. Tamarind (Tamar Hindi)
A sour and slightly sweet drink made from tamarind pulp, water, and sugar. This is another favorite during Ramadan because it helps refresh the body after fasting. Tamarind has a tangy, citrusy taste that makes it incredibly refreshing, especially when served ice cold. You’ll often see vendors carrying jugs of this drink in busy markets.
9. Blue Wine
A rare and unique drink that has gained popularity in recent years. This Syrian wine gets its blue color from a natural pigment in grapes. It’s mostly found in select wineries and is perfect for special occasions. The taste is slightly fruity and smooth, making it a fascinating choice for those looking to try something new.
10. Pomegranate Juice
A tart and refreshing juice made from fresh pomegranates, often enjoyed in the fall when pomegranates are in season. It’s a common sight in juice shops and is packed with health benefits. Pomegranate juice is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a nutritious drink that strengthens the immune system. It’s best enjoyed fresh, straight from the press.
11. Qamar al-Din
Made from dried apricot sheets dissolved in water and sugar, this thick and delicious drink is a Ramadan classic. It gives energy and is often enjoyed at iftar (breaking the fast). The rich apricot flavor makes it naturally sweet and satisfying. Some people like to blend it with nuts or a splash of orange blossom water for added flavor.
12. Ayran
A salty yogurt drink that is incredibly refreshing, especially in the summer. It’s the perfect companion to kebabs and other grilled dishes. You’ll find it everywhere, from homes to restaurants. Ayran is made by mixing yogurt with water and a pinch of salt, creating a creamy yet light drink that helps with digestion and cools you down on a hot day.
13. Carob Juice (Famous in Tartus)
A thick, naturally sweet drink made from carob pods. It’s a traditional summer drink in coastal areas like Tartus and is known for its cooling properties. Carob is naturally rich in calcium and fiber, making this drink both delicious and nutritious. It has a deep, chocolatey flavor and is sometimes mixed with milk for an even creamier taste.
14. Bitter Arabian Coffee (Qahwa Sada)
A strong, unsweetened coffee brewed with cardamom, often served in small cups as a symbol of hospitality. This coffee is deeply ingrained in Syrian culture, especially in Bedouin traditions and formal gatherings. It’s usually served during special occasions, family visits, and even at funerals. The intense, slightly spicy flavor wakes up the senses and is often sipped slowly while engaging in conversation.
Next time you visit Syria, make sure to try these drinks and experience the flavors that have been loved for generations!