Brioche is an amazing restaurant in Jeddah that was opened by a group of Saudi friends and it offers unique dishes made by local chef, Hakim Bagabas.
Master Chef Arabia nominee, Hakim Bagabas — who studied culinary arts in London and Paris — created the food and the menu at Brioche. And what is on offer takes flavors from around the world and turns them into a grand assortment of flavors.
Chef Bagabas produces dishes that carry his own interpretation of original recipes, and meals are brought to the table with a tantalizing mix of flavors from around the world.
It is common for fine food to come at a high price, and low-priced food usually means low quality. What Brioche has managed to do, however, is serve good food at an affordable price.
For starters, we had a tabouleh salad that was served with a twist; while many of the ingredients were what you would expect — tomatoes, parsley and mint — the conventional bulgur wheat had been replaced with quinoa.
In these days of health concerns and worries about diet, Chef Bagabas has clearly given his dishes some thought. Quinoa contains amino acids and is rich in lysine which promotes healthy tissue growth throughout the body.
And keeping true to the restaurant’s name, the smell of the freshly baked “brioche” wafting through the restaurant will awaken your senses — and appetite — in anticipation of the delicious food about to appear on the table.
Obviously, the name of the restaurant refers to the fine French bread which is freshly baked every day on site for the enjoyment of costumers.
The brioche was brought to our table with foul and hummus.
It was Ramadan when we visited Brioche and our iftar meal was filled with added extras. Before being served our main course, we were presented with mini-shrimp and avocado sandwiches.
There was a plate of pastries with delicious fillings, including borek, and balls of kabsa — the traditional Saudi dish of rice and meat.
Then it was time for the main course. We had already enjoyed a number of dishes, but we were grateful to have room for the tender slice of strip loin steak (or New York strip) that melted in the mouth.
The New York strip is a cut from the short loin. It is a muscle that does less work, making the meat especially tender. The steak came served on a thick bed of mashed potatoes garnished with basil.
During Ramadan, the Brioche iftar menu pushed the boundaries. It found new ways to entice diners.
Chef Bagabas took things up a notch, making sure the ingredients were of the finest quality.
On this occasion the highlight was dessert — a bread kunafa served up by the head chef himself. This simpler version of a traditional dish was much lighter than usual kunafa.
Instead of akawi cheese, the dessert was filled with thick cream and mozzarella, which was then baked until crisp and golden. It was served with thick, fragrant sugar syrup.
The restaurant has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. When you walk in, it feels like they have thought about every aspect of the design. The overall feel is a mix between modern and classic, with grays, blues, whites and blacks dominating the restaurant.
All staff at Brioche, from the chef and the manager, to the busboys and bar staff, worked together to make the customer experience extra special.
Brioche offers a unique ambiance that is unparalleled anywhere in Jeddah’s Rawdah district.
It is a popular place, so it is a good idea to book in advance.
With a comfortable and cozy feeling, Brioche is a place to enjoy fine tasty food at reasonable prices.
Prices range from SR25 to SR35 and SR44 to SR66 for main courses. Every Saturday diners can choose from the chef’s special or the menu.
The current favorite with customers is Wagyu rib eye with black truffle butter and mushroom sauce. And judging by feedback on the restaurant’s social media platforms, the New York strip is proving to be very popular, with customers inquiring as to when it will be next available.
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PHOTOS: Huda Bashatah
When the owner of the restaurant serves you the dessert, then you are in Brioche
When the owner of the restaurant serves you the dessert, then you are in Brioche
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Attache’ in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter
- A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato
If you are looking for a spot that blends culinary excellence with live music and an exceptional atmosphere, then look no further than Attache.
Situated in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, the music venue and restaurant is a venture by MDLBeast, the music company, which turned an old equestrian club into a modern fine-dining experience.
The menu at Attache is diverse, featuring a fusion of Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern influences. This global approach to cuisine allows diners to explore a variety of flavors, from fresh seafood and grilled meats to inventive vegetarian dishes.
For starters, there is the Thai king prawn gyoza, pan fried with a coriander sauce, and the Swiss comte souffle. This is twice-baked with a comte cheese sauce topped with chives, which gives you satisfying flavors that are not too overwhelming.
For lighter options, opt for the Greek tuna ceviche with a soy marinade, served right at your table, or the English goat cheese salad, with refreshing apple crisp, pecans and rocket leaves, in a date-molasses vinaigrette.
A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato.
For more complex flavors, the Moroccan lamb tagine is cooked with a Ras El-Hanout spice blend alongside smoked almonds, prunes, pomegranate, and orange-infused couscous.
Whether you are a vegetarian or not, the porcini and portobello mushroom pithivier is an excellent dish featuring a crispy puff pastry stuffed with porcini and spinach, served with a cream sauce.
For a perfect pairing of cocktails, we recommend the multinational, which harmoniously blends non-alcoholic tanqueray, pomegranate and passionfruit with the tartness of Japanese lime.
Also try the Attache royal for a sweet refreshing bubbly drink crafted with homemade non-alcoholic yuzu liqueur that has elderflower notes.
With the festive winter season, you will probably want to enjoy the weather with outdoor seating under the stars.
End the night with a sweet treat, whether it is the signature Saudi coffee tiramisu or a lighter Egyptian mango pavlova, while listening to trendy new mixes directly from their DJ.
Review: Jimam Spa in Riyadh
- The spa offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered
Located in the Jareed Hotel in Riyadh, Jimam Spa offers a luxurious experience that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The spa is designed as a tranquil sanctuary, blending modern aesthetics with traditional wellness practices, making it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to unwind.
Whether you want a rejuvenating facial or a detoxifying body wrap, the spa has something for everyone.
Jimam Spa features a variety of treatments tailored to individual needs, including an aromatherapy massage and deep tissue Swedish massage. These treatments may help relieve stress and ease muscle tension. Skilled therapists use high-quality oils and techniques for a soothing session.
The spa provides an array of face and body treatments as well. Each treatment is crafted to nourish the skin and improve its appearance, leaving guests feeling refreshed and revitalized.
For those seeking a more private experience, the spa offers exclusive packages. I had the pleasure of enjoying a private experience that included access to a hot tub. It was the perfect setting to relax while sipping their special tea. The massage that followed was incredibly soothing — a much-needed escape from the bustling life of Riyadh.
After the treatment, I was invited to a serene seating area where I enjoyed another calming cup of tea. This thoughtful touch made my experience truly exceptional.
The spa also offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered.
Jimam Spa, with its diverse offerings and award-winning service, stands out as a premier destination for wellness and rejuvenation. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a trip to this spa can be a transformative experience.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign Burger’ – a homegrown eatery in Jeddah
- The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety
Jeddah’s bustling restaurant scene features Sign Burger, a homegrown eatery that takes its branding to the next level.
Located in Al-Mohammadiyyah and Al-Bawadi, Sign Burger’s vivid decor makes an instant impression. Neon pink dominates the interior, giving the place an edgy, Instagram-worthy vibe.
The bright, cheerful setup, combined with its minimalist menu, has quickly turned it into a popular spot, with customers queuing for their fix of burgers and fries.
The menu is as straightforward as it gets, offering just three meal options: Sign beef, Sign chicken and Sign spicy chicken, all priced at a very pocket-friendly SR24 ($7).
Each meal includes a burger, fries served in a cute pink box, and a drink. Its gathering box, which offers four or six burgers for group dining, is a thoughtful option on the menu.
The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety.
Taste-wise, the burgers are satisfying, especially for the price. The beef patty is well-seasoned, smashed to perfection, and complemented by the signature Sign sauce, a tangy mix reminiscent of Thousand Island dressing.
The chicken burgers, especially the spicy crispy variety, pack a flavorful punch with just the right amount of heat. The soft brioche buns elevate the experience, striking a balance between lightness and structure.
One downside is the sheer popularity of the place, long lines and crowded spaces are almost guaranteed, whether you are dining in or using the drive-thru.
For some, the wait might detract from the experience.
From the neon-lit interiors to the vibrant pink drink cups, Sign Burger has nailed the aesthetics game, and affordability with its reasonably priced burgers.
For more information check @signsa on Instagram.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jazean’ Saudi coffee at Diplomatic Quarter
- The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.
Saudi Arabia has been booming with specialty coffee shops, but there is nothing quite like Jazean, which has become a beloved local gem.
With two locations in the heart of the Diplomatic Quarter, at 1364 Mall and the trendy tourist attraction Al-Bujairi, it brings a new style of Saudi coffee to locals and visitors alike.
Jazean’s offerings are rich in flavors and Saudi identity. The coffee beans are sourced from the mountains of the southern region of Saudi Arabia, nestled 1,000 meters above sea level, and blended with the best arabica from around the world.
Jazean’s menu stands out with its wide selection of specialty drinks, from rich espresso-based beverages to traditional Arabic options. The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.
For those looking for something more adventurous, the turmeric latte and iced date coffee are both unique takes on classic flavors.
The raspberry cheesecake is a must — it is equally fluffy and sweet. The mango dessert and pecan cheesecake are also popular options for those with sweet cravings.
They also offer their own machine capsules and beans for easy brewing at home.
Jazean has a modern, warm ambiance, with a minimalist design that emphasizes comfort and relaxation. Natural light pours in through large windows, creating a pleasant and airy space perfect for both solo visits and casual meetings.
The DQ location features a breathtaking mural by the Saudi artist Noura Binsaidan, depicting an elderly farmer wearing the traditional flower crown, native and popular in the southern region. It is a nod to the generations of cultivating and harvesting in Jazan.
The service is exceptional, with friendly and knowledgeable baristas who are happy to share recommendations. While the prices are on the higher end, Jazean makes up for it in quality and atmosphere.
Whether you are a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, the shop is a perfect blend of quality, inviting ambiance, and top-notch service.
It is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in Riyadh, providing an unforgettable experience with every sip.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Kumar’ Indian restaurant in Riyadh
Kumar in Riyadh offers a delightful culinary experience that celebrates Indian cuisine.
Upon entering, guests are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere with traditional decor and a friendly staff.
The menu is extensive, featuring a variety of dishes that cater to different palates, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Each dish is crafted using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, ensuring that the flavors are both rich and genuine.
As I browsed the menu, I felt excited to explore the flavors of India. I decided to start with the aromatic biryani, which was perfectly spiced and fragrant. Each bite was a delightful experience, bursting with flavor.
The succulent kebabs were another highlight —grilled to perfection and seasoned just right. I also indulged in a rich curry that left my taste buds dancing; it was comforting and packed with authentic spices.
The restaurant also offers a selection of flavorful curries, which are perfect for those who enjoy spicy dishes.
The service at Kumar is commendable. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, ready to recommend dishes based on guests’ preferences. This personalized touch enhances the dining experience, making it feel special and tailored.
For those who enjoy a vibrant dining atmosphere, Kumar often features live music or cultural performances, adding to the overall experience. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, or groups looking to celebrate a special occasion.
Find more details on Instagram @kumar__ksa.
