TRIPOLI, Lebanon: Tradition dictates that Muslims donate cuts of mutton during Friday’s Eid Al-Adha festival, which would spell brisk business for butcher Abdulrazak Darwish but Lebanon’s economic crisis has cast a pall over his trade.
“This year has been the worst for us because of soaring inflation,” said the 54-year-old resident of the northern city of Tripoli.
“There is no demand for meat or requests from clients to slaughter sheep this Eid Al-Adha,” he told AFP from inside his nearly empty store near the city’s port.
Thousands of sheep are usually slaughtered annually in Lebanon at Eid Al-Adha — the festival of sacrifice — one of two major holy days observed by Muslims across the world.
It is custom for the better-off to donate cuts of mutton to needy members of their community as a form of religious charity during the holiday.
But that might not happen this year, as the country is now mired in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war.
The Lebanese pound has in past months lost around 80 percent of its value against the dollar on the black market.
In a country where most consumer goods are imported, that devaluation has had a huge impact on prices and the purchasing power of ordinary Lebanese.
In Darwish’s butcher shop, one lonely cut of mutton hangs from a hook. Fridges next to it are completely empty.
For the vast majority of people whose income is not in dollars, the cost of a sheep has more than tripled since last year.
Darwish says the price he pays his suppliers is already prohibitive and leaves him with “no margin to make a profit.”
Tripoli already harbored some of the country’s poorest but the combined effect of the monetary crisis and coronavirus lockdowns is sentencing thousands of families to hunger.
This has upset Eid Al-Adha mutton donations, said Sheikh Nabil Rahim, who connects wealthy families with the needy during the Islamic holiday.
“Donations have severely dwindled by more than 80 percent which means no mutton this Eid Al-Adha,” he told AFP from his office, a stack of religious textbooks piled on his desk.
“A big segment of the Lebanese population are now preoccupied with themselves and their personal problems as a result of the economic crisis,” explained the man who runs an Islamic radio station.
Sitting on a chair outside her Tripoli apartment, Mona Al-Masri said she is preparing for a frugal Eid Al-Adha this year because of the downturn.
“Our priorities have changed,” said the 51-year-old, explaining she is not planning to buy any meat for the feast, which usually abounds with lamb and mutton.
Instead, she will prepare dishes using lentils, vegetables and herbs, she told AFP, explaining she usually relies on donations for mutton.
“This year it seems no one is planning to distribute anything,” she said.
Eid Al-Adha will still be celebrated this year even though many mosques will not hold public prayers and travel restrictions will limit annual Hajj pilgrimages and traditional family gatherings for the holiday.
Butchers have faced further complication due to power outages that have increased as state failure worsens.
“We can’t buy large quantities of meat, not even during the holidays,” said Ali Hassan Khaled, a 50-year-old butcher in a low-income Tripoli neighborhood.
He said he usually slaughters at least 100 sheep for his customers during Eid Al-Adha, but this year he has only received 10 orders.
“This Eid Al-Adha, it seems, people won’t be eating meat and won’t receive their portion of mutton donations,” Khaled said, circled by several hanging carcasses.
Salima Hijazi, a 33-year-old Tripoli resident, is one of them.
The woman usually prepares stuffed vine leaves with mutton for the feast — a staple holiday dish. But this year, mutton is no longer on the menu.
“Our incomes are nearly worthless... and we are now forced to change our eating habits,” she said.
No money, no mutton: Lebanon crisis upends Eid tradition
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No money, no mutton: Lebanon crisis upends Eid tradition
- It is customary for the better-off to donate cuts of mutton to needy members of their community as a form of religious charity during the holiday
- That might not happen this year in Lebanon, as the country is now mired in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war
Where We Are Going Today: OH Japanese Pancake
- The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience
OH offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese pancakes by incorporating macarons into their dishes, making it a standout spot for dessert lovers.
Located in the bustling Hittin district of Riyadh, this cake shop specializes in Japanese mini pancakes, which are both delicious and visually appealing.
At OH, you can indulge in two delightful flavors: matcha and chocolate. Each mini pancake is priced at SR18 ($4.80), which feels a bit steep for the size, but the quality justifies the expense.
The pancakes are soft yet have a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful texture that is hard to resist.
A highlight of the experience is the specialty matcha macaron, which is filled with a crispy chocolate filling that resembles a sponge cake.
While the flavors are enjoyable, the limited menu may leave some diners wanting more variety. During my visit, I found the service to be quick and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.
The preparation process is an intriguing spectacle. Watching the staff skillfully place the pancake batter into a wooden mold, stuff it with a macaron, and then add another pancake layer is a treat in itself.
The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience.
Despite the shop occasionally being crowded, the staff remains attentive and welcoming. However, I do wonder how often I would return if the menu remains unchanged. While the food is good, a broader selection could elevate the experience.
OH is a charming destination for those looking to try something different. The combination of crunchy and soft textures, along with the unique concept, makes it worth a visit.
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.
