Jeddah is fast becoming a hub for cultural activities, from the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix to the Red Sea International Film Festival, it’s packed with world-class events, buzzing art galleries and unmissable restaurants.
The restaurants in Jeddah range from fine dining to family-friendly spots. So whether you’re after traditional Saudi food or experimental Japanese cuisine, restaurants in Jeddah serve up feasts to suit all tastes and budgets.
Challenge yourself to a meter long kebab at Khayal
A meat lovers dream, these traditional Turkish kebabs don’t come much better than this. Choose between the famous meter long (or the less daunting half-meter kebabs) that are barbecued to your taste. The recipes have long been a favourite with diners and remain unchanged from the original. If you’re there early also try the baked breakfast pie.
From SAR15. Open 24 hours. Prince Sultan Rd, Al Zahra, Jeddah 23522, www.khayalrest.com (09200 02223).
Chow down on authentic Japanese cuisine in Myazu
This upmarket Japanese restaurant serves sushi and seafood like nowhere else in Jeddah. The oven-baked black cod and Gulf prawns in ponzu sauce are our picks from what is a comprehensive menu of only high-quality ingredients. If you’ve got room for dessert try the delicious Myazu date cake served with sticky toffee sauce.
From SAR88. Open daily 1am-1pm. Al Basateen Mall, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al Rawdah District, Jeddah, 23431, www.myazu.com (092 001 0434).
Eat some of the best Korean food in the city at Sura
With over 50 kinds of food on the menu, you’ve got good reason to come back for more. Sura is the top Korean restaurant in Jeddah thanks to its tasty and healthy food. Customers come from afar for the kimchi as well as the noodle dish called Kal-Guksu. Our favourite is the fried chicken breast with vegetables (Dak-Galbi Gui).
From SAR80. Open daily 1pm-midnight, Thu-Fri, 1pm-1am, Prince Saud Al Faisal, Ar Rawdah, Jeddah 23432, www.instagram.com/sura_ksa (056 876 7234).
Enjoy an American burger in Century Burger
Century Burger is an American chain serving hearty food from a 19th-century recipe. Founded by two Saudi brothers after studying in America the handmade burgers are freshly made with fresh ingredients. The popularity of the gourmet patties has led to the pair opening five stores in Jeddah, so you’re never far from one.
From SAR24. Open daily 11am-4am, Al-Muhammadia District, Price Sultan Road, www.centuryburger.com (09200 33900).
Experience the taste of India at Zafiro
The beef korma with almonds and Hyderabadi biryani is among the most popular dishes at this Indian fine dining outlet. The staff has made this restaurant one of the most desirable to visit with their impeccable service. There is a wide range of vegetarian options, too.
From SAR56. Open Sat-Wed 1am-1pm, Thurs-Fri 1pm-1:30am, Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Wahab, Al-Baghdadiyah Al-Sharqiyah, Jeddah 22235, www.instagram.com/zafirofinedine (055 118 8312).
Feast like the French at Le Traiteur
A new French platter is introduced to the menu every four months as the master chefs constantly update the menu with only the finest French food. The traditional dishes include a fine selection of octopus, rolled salmon and royal prawns. If seafood isn’t your thing the traditional French entrecote steak is a tremendous alternative.
From SAR127. Open Mon-Sat 1pm-1am, Le Traiteur, Alshati District 2, Abu Al Abbas bin Abdul Mutalib street 68, www.letraiteur.com.sa (026 055 111).
Get swept away by incredible Italian dishes at Piatto
Be sure to arrive with a big appetite because the traditional Italian food served here is some of the tastiest you’ll find in all of Jeddah. Your meal starts with freshly baked bread and salad before you move onto the goat cheese pizza and Gorgonzola steak. Complete your Italian experience with a scoop of two of gelato. From SAR34. Open Sat-Thurs 11am-2am, Fri 1pm-3am, Avenue Mall, King Abdul Aziz Rd, Etoile Center Next to Stars, Jeddah, www.piatto.com.sa (055 394 6738).
Go for traditional Indian food at Ginger Leaf
Indian dishes are created here as they were in the Mughal kitchens and served in a traditional setting. Mocktails are perfectly paired with culinary masterpieces to make your experience as authentic and delicious as possible. The head chef will come and explain the dishes at your table so you know exactly what you’re eating.
From SAR200. Open daily 7pm-midnight, North Corniche Road, PO Box 7079 Jeddah, 21462, www.hilton.com (09200 09565).
Taste the Szechwan aromatic crispy duck at Toki
Be sure to order the duck 24 hours in advance, as the chefs need ample time to prepare the air-dried and roasted dish. Other delectable items include steamed saffron lobster dumplings and wok-fried rock lobster in black bean sauce. Toki is always very busy to be sure to book well in advance. From SAR238. Open Sun-Thurs 1pm-11:30pm, Fri-Sat 1pm-1am, Leylaty, 2206 King Abdul Aziz road, 8003 Jeddah 23422, www.tokiksa.com (012 606 0606).
Try the local fast food chain Al Baik
No list of restaurants in Jeddah is complete without giving Al Baik an honourable mention. Fried chicken and fries are a staple of the diet for many in Saudi Arabia largely thanks to the popularity of Al Baik. The company first opened in Jeddah in 1974 and now serves affordable, delicious food to thousands across the country every day. The most popular menu item is the chicken meal and is a must when you’re in town. From SAR5. Open daily 10am-2pm. 3640 Muhammad Abd Rida, As Salamah, 8162 Jeddah 23525, www.albaik.com (0800 244 2245).
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