Ready for python pizza? Florida diners get a taste

Updated 02 February 2014
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Ready for python pizza? Florida diners get a taste

FORT MYERS, United States: Alligator and frog have long been on the menu in Florida, but a new delicacy has slithered its way onto dinner plates in the US state.
A pizzeria now offers Burmese python meat on what it calls the “Everglades Pizza” — named for Florida’s vast national park, where the snakes are being hunted to protect the nature preserve.
“It was just to create talk about the shop and being creative and this thing literally just went viral,” says Evan Daniell, the owner of Evan’s Neighborhood Pizza in the Gulf Coast city of Fort Myers.
“People talk about it all the time and whether it’s negative or positive, it really doesn’t matter because the fact is: we can make it and it’s delicious.”
So, the big question: what does it taste like? “It’s good but a little chewy,” says Mike, a tourist taking the python plunge from Minnesota.
“It tastes like chicken but chewier,” his wife Becky adds.
Daniell admits that python meat “can be gamier.” The chef tenderizes the slabs of snake meat by marinating them for several hours. They are then sliced thinly into what he calls “snake slivers.”
Before laying it onto the pizza, making sure “each slice has a piece of python,” Daniell pre-cooks the snake in the oven for a few minutes.
“There is some pink into the snake, and as it turns white, it will be done,” he explains.
Despite its steep price tag of $45, the “Everglades” pizza certainly has its fans.
Daniell’s pal Mike Gookin says he came up with the idea of using the snake meat to spice up pizzas after seeing a news report on the python problem in the Everglades.
The pizza also features alligator sausage and frog legs. Both are native to southern Florida. The pythons are definitely not, but they are everywhere.
“There could be thousands or tens of thousands of Burmese pythons in the wild here,” explains Roberto Torres, a field officer with The Nature Conservancy.
The snakes can measure up to 20 feet long and they are believed to have made the Everglades their home after being released by their owners.
“They get them as pets and when they get too big, they release them here,” Torres says, his feet deep in the mud of the wetlands near the suburbs of Miami where pythons have been spotted regularly.
Burmese pythons have no known predator in Florida, so they sit atop the food chain in their new home. As a result, environmental experts like Torres fear their presence could end up threatening biodiversity in the Everglades.
“It’s a perfect habitat for the snake — it’s wet, there is plenty of food. (...) They’ll eat anything they can catch — birds, fish, mammals, cats, dogs,” Torres says.
To raise awareness about the python invasion, chefs in Miami have held several events with python on the menu along with other non-native species.






But current food safety regulations do not allow the invasive snakes captured in Florida to be slaughtered and processed regularly to be sold in restaurants.
As a result, Daniell’s python meat is not local.
“I buy it frozen from a wholesaler who imports farmed python from Vietnam,” the restaurateur explains.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Kaboun’ Restaurant in Madinah

AN photo by Nada Hameed
Updated 17 February 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Kaboun’ Restaurant in Madinah

Kaboun is a new breakfast spot in Madinah, opening as early as 6 a.m.

The restaurant’s interior is warm and inviting, resembling a vintage classic home adorned with hand-embroidered pearls of wisdom, old sayings, and poetry.

Sunlight pours through the white curtains, creating a serene atmosphere, while morning melodies from legends like Fairouz, Umm Kulthum, and Abdel Halim Hafez enhance the experience.

AN photo by Nada Hameed

The menu offers a variety of tempting options, including English breakfast, different omelets, traditional tatimah, sandwiches, and freshly baked pastries. Kaboun’s oven delivers warm delights straight to your table, such as waffles, pancakes, croissants, and focaccia.

I chose the three-cheese omelet, which was light, fluffy, topped with shredded cheese and fresh chives, and beautifully presented. It came with a tangy tomato-based dipping sauce that complemented the flavors well. The side salad was fresh, with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red cabbage, and a light dressing that added a refreshing contrast.

I also tried the Madini tatimah, a selection of traditional Madinah breakfast items served in small decorative dishes, including a variety of green and black olives, creamy labneh, crumbly white cheese, and warm, freshly baked olive focaccia. There was also za’atar-infused olive oil for dipping, along with sweet strawberry jam and tahini-based halva. The combination of warm bread, and sweet and savory flavors made for a comforting and balanced meal.

For dessert, I tried the pecan pancakes, which were soft and fluffy with a delightful crunch from the nuts. They came with butter and caramel sauce, adding a rich, delicious flavor.

For more details, visit @kaboun.sa on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Flat Burger’ in Jeddah

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Updated 16 February 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Flat Burger’ in Jeddah

  • The flat BBQ burger is another must-try, with its smashed beef patty, crispy beef bacon, special BBQ sauce, and crispy onions, making it a rich, smoky indulgence

If you find yourself craving a unique and satisfying burger experience, look no further than Flat Burger, which is on Al-Naseem street in Jeddah.

This cozy spot has quickly become a favorite for locals who appreciate a flavorful burger with a twist, featuring uniquely flat buns instead of the usual rounded ones. Known more for its take-out options than for dining in, Flat Burger offers a convenient and tasty solution for those on the go.

At the heart of Flat Burger’s menu are its signature double-toasted buns, which provide a crunchy yet soft foundation for their mouthwatering creations. Each burger is crafted with care, ensuring that the flavors blend perfectly.

The Flat Burger classic features a smashed beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, caramelized onions, and their special flat sauce, making it a delightful combination of savory and sweet — the perfect go-to for a satisfying meal that does not compromise on taste.

For chicken lovers, the flat chicken burger is a standout. The crunchy fried chicken is served along with the same fresh lettuce, cheddar cheese, and flat sauce, creating a crispy, savory bite that will leave you coming back for more.

The flat BBQ burger is another must-try, with its smashed beef patty, crispy beef bacon, special BBQ sauce, and crispy onions, making it a rich, smoky indulgence.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more sophisticated, the flat truffle burger brings together a smashed Angus beef patty, Swiss cheese, pickles, crispy onions, and a special truffle sauce, creating a refined and rich burger experience that appeals to gourmet tastes.

Side options at Flat Burger are just as satisfying, including flat onion rings that are perfectly crispy and a delicious addition to your meal. For those seeking a cheesy delight, the flat cheese sticks are gooey and indulgent, making for an irresistible snack.

Whether you are out picking up for lunch, dinner, or a late-night craving, Flat Burger is definitely worth a visit.

Check @eatflatburger on Instagram for more details.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Khaliat Khalid’ Saudi pastry shop

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Updated 15 February 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Khaliat Khalid’ Saudi pastry shop

  • For many Saudis, the classic khaliah is tied to childhood memories and family traditions

Khaliat Khalid is a Saudi pastry shop with branches across the Kingdom. It offers a variety of freshly baked pastries, including a popular specialty known in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf as khaliah (honeycomb bread).

This sweet-and-savory treat gets its name from its unique beehive-like shape. It consists of small dough balls filled with cream cheese and baked to a golden color, often drizzled with sugar syrup for a contrast of soft bread and creamy filling.

Khaliat Khalid elevates this classic with a range of fillings and toppings, including cheesecake with blueberry and raspberry, chocolate with za’atar, cinnamon with sugar glaze, caramelized pecans, and even a savory version filled with chicken musakhan.

For many Saudis, the classic khaliah is tied to childhood memories and family traditions. It is the comforting pastry mothers and grandmothers would prepare, filled with kiri cheese, topped with sesame seeds, and served with tea after lunch or with coffee when hosting guests. It is also a beloved dish on Ramadan iftar tables, bringing families together in the evening.

For those wanting to try different flavors, the bites box includes six varieties with two dipping sauces: condensed milk and sugar syrup. I tried it and loved the cloud-like dough, perfectly balanced filling, and irresistible flavors. My favorite was the cinnamon with condensed milk, and the saffron flavor — it tasted just like home.

I also tried their warm date pudding, served in a clay bowl. It was soft, rich, and satisfying. In addition to sweets, they offer mini meat or chicken pies, ideal for gatherings. Best of all, most items are priced under SR30 ($8).

For more information visit @khaliatkh.sa on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Yemeni Village’ food in Jeddah

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Updated 14 February 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Yemeni Village’ food in Jeddah

  • Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for families and groups looking to enjoy traditional Yemeni cuisine without overspending

If you’re someone who loves exploring new cuisines, it’s time to experience authentic Yemeni food at Yemeni Village. From the moment you step inside, the restaurant immerses you in a vibrant Yemeni atmosphere.

Some of the standout dishes include shrimp maghash, mugalgal, lamb liver, mutabaq, beef and chicken fahsa (slow-cooked meat stew), mandi (fragrant spiced rice with tender meat or chicken).

For appetizers, you may try their sambusa, filled with minced meat and white cheese, freshly fried with a delicate, soft pastry. You will also enjoy their lentil and wheat soup, both rich and comforting.

You will love their shrimp maghash and mugalgal, the shrimp and meat are incredibly tender, and the seasoning is perfectly balanced. Every dish is cooked to perfection; not overly oily, yet rich in taste.

Each dish is served in a special traditional stone pot, a cylindrical vessel made of stone designed to retain heat, ensuring the food stays warm throughout your meal. This type of cookware is widely used in homes across Jazan, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

Despite the restaurant usually being full, the service is surprisingly fast. The staff are attentive and efficient.

Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for families and groups looking to enjoy traditional Yemeni cuisine without overspending.

A complimentary serving of melawah bread is provided with the meal. It is a large, layered Yemeni bread available in both white and whole-grain flour, resembling a giant burrata-style flatbread.

For dessert, you may try their marsa, a traditional banana-based dish similar to masoub. It’s made with mashed ripe bananas, ghee, honey and cream, sprinkled with black seeds, best enjoyed with a cup of Adani tea or Saudi coffee.

The restaurant spans three spacious floors, with dedicated family spaces and a rooftop area where you can enjoy traditional Yemeni hookah in an inviting and culturally rich setting.

The restaurant provides a cosy, traditional ambience, featuring clay pots, wooden windows and clay lanterns hanging from the ceiling.

The waitstaff, dressed in traditional Yemeni attire, complements the cultural experience. For more details, visit @yemenivillage on Instagram.
 

 


Jeddah celebrates global culinary extravaganza at Food Culture Festival

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)
Updated 15 February 2025
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Jeddah celebrates global culinary extravaganza at Food Culture Festival

  • Festival heads west after successful events in Alkhobar and Riyadh
  • Workshops, musical performances, and global cuisine on offer

JEDDAH: After successful events in Alkhobar and Riyadh, the much-anticipated Food Culture Festival is taking place at Jeddah’s Wonder District from Feb. 12 to 16.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program, the event showcases a rich blend of local and international culinary experiences.

The festival in Jeddah features four zones, each offering a different aspect of the culinary world.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)

In the food exhibitors’ area, attendees can savor various cuisines, from traditional Saudi dishes to international delicacies, allowing them to embark on a gastronomic journey around the world without leaving the city.

Leo Wen, CEO and co-founder of Whoa Tea, which offers authentic Chinese drinks and sweets like Tang Hu Lu (candied fruit snack) and coconut cubes, said: “It’s exciting to introduce these unique flavors through this festival, and the response has been overwhelming.

“Our goal is not only to provide a delicious experience but also to share the rich heritage behind these drinks and desserts, showcasing the diversity of Chinese culinary traditions.”

FASTFACTS

• The festival in Jeddah features four zones, each offering a different aspect of the culinary world.

• In the food exhibitors’ area, attendees can savor various cuisines, from traditional Saudi dishes to international delicacies, allowing them to embark on a gastronomic journey around the world without leaving the city.

• The festival’s theater area features live performances, from guitar and vocal acts to Arabic music bands.

Noura Abdullah, founder of Soma, a Saudi brand known for its signature grape leaves, as well as dishes like grape leaves fatteh, musakhan, kibbeh, and fresh juices made from carefully selected ingredients, said: “Everything we serve is homemade, with our signature dish, the grape leaves, being particularly popular.

Guests will also get a chance to watch live cooking demos. (Supplied)

“I started in Alkhobar, then expanded to Riyadh, and now, by participating in this festival in Jeddah, I’m exploring the possibility of franchising Soma.

“The positive feedback from visitors has been incredible, especially (for) the grape leaves. Their response has been very encouraging and motivates me to bring Soma to even more people.”

Ahmed Imran, owner of My Makan, the only Malaysian restaurant in Jeddah, told Arab News: “Festivals like this bring together diverse cultures, and food is the perfect medium to unite people from all walks of life.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of culinary offerings from around the world. (Supplied)

“It’s truly amazing to see such a celebration of global cuisines, and I’m excited to introduce authentic Malaysian dishes to the visitors. It’s also heartwarming to witness the positive response from the community towards Malaysian cuisine.”

The festival also welcomes food truck owners, offering them an opportunity to showcase their food and attract new customers.

Al-Baraa Yahy, who owns Protein Dose, a food truck based in Al-Safa district, said the festival has given her the opportunity to introduce her products to a wider audience.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of culinary offerings from around the world. (Supplied)

“I’m grateful for the chance to showcase my offerings through such a fantastic platform,” she said.

For those eager to enhance their culinary skills, the workshops area offers hands-on experiences with activities such as sushi making, food decoration, pasta crafting, and even food photography, with a special focus on the flavors of Singapore.

Live cooking demonstrations will also allow guests to witness the magic of food preparation firsthand.

Sadellah Zakaria, an Italian chef, and Mokhtar Mahdy, an Egyptian chef, teach festivalgoers how to make pasta like fettuccine and ravioli from scratch with their workshop.

“These workshops are a great way for attendees to not only learn valuable culinary skills but also connect with the craft of making fresh pasta. Even children can join and enjoy this immersive experience,” Zakaria said.

The festival’s theater area features live performances, from guitar and vocal acts to Arabic music bands and Indian Bharatanatyam dancers.

Additionally, roaming performances like living statues, an interactive parade, and a Chinese dragon dance add to the event’s festive atmosphere.

The kids’ area offers a chance for children to get involved in cooking workshops and farm activities, participate in friendly competitions, and unleash their creativity in a safe and educational environment.

Mohammed Hussein, who came along with his family said: “It’s great that the workshops let kids get involved and try things out for themselves. Plus, the festival has this cool passport challenge where you get a stamp every time you visit a different zone.”

Ghadeer Abdullah, a visitor from Makkah, said: “The best part of the festival is definitely the weather. It’s so pleasant that we’re enjoying all the zones. The kids’ zone is especially engaging. My children spent almost an hour completing the workshop, and they loved every minute of it.”