Where We Are Going Today: Sol Olas in Riyadh 

What makes Sol Olas stand out as one of the most popular coffee shops in Riyadh is that it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, serving specialty coffee and breakfast throughout. (Supplied)
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Updated 28 April 2023
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Where We Are Going Today: Sol Olas in Riyadh 

RIYADH: Located in Ghadir district, Sol Olas coffee shop provides the perfect view of King Abdullah Financial District while serving up an assortment of coffees and creative takes on the classic French toast.

The coffee shop quickly became a local favorite during the Riyadh Season celebrations with its strategic location directly across from the Winter Wonderland.

What makes Sol Olas stand out as one of the most popular coffee shops in Riyadh is that it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, serving specialty coffee and breakfast throughout.

During the winter season, Sol Olas had a pop-up booth that served a hot chocolate drink covered in whipped cream and fluffy marshmallows that quickly became a crowd favorite.

One tip to keep in mind is it gets crowded on weekend evenings, especially during the peak of Riyadh Season’s celebrations.

For those that visit the restaurant early in the morning, you cannot go wrong with the avocado toast — simple yet flavorful with a sourdough base and a thin layer of pesto and avocado on top.

Some of the must-try options on the breakfast menu include croissant egg’s Benedict and the pesto halloumi sandwich.

On the dessert menu, we recommend trying the salted caramel french toast and the classic french toast for those that like it a bit less sweet.

The coffee menu is very standard with the traditional selections of black coffee, Americano, V60, and sweeter options of Spanish lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites.

The menu also features some non-coffee options including the Sol mojito, orange juice, and raspberry iced tea.

The coffee on the menu is average and very similar to other cafes in the city but what makes this cafe stand out is the view of KAFD.

Although there are indoor seats that have windows that open up it is recommended to sit in one of the outdoor seating areas, but keep in mind that they do fill up quickly.

The best time to go to the location is at sunrise or sunset to view the rays of sun peaking through the KAFD building skyline.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Razzah’ in Alkhobar

Updated 16 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Razzah’ in Alkhobar

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Alkhobar, Razzah offers a warm and inviting space for tea-lovers and those looking for a relaxing place to unwind. While the specialty here is tea, the menu also includes a variety of delicious offerings such as coffee, pastries and savory bites, making it a versatile stop for any time of day.

During my visit, I indulged in several dishes, including the Napoli halloumi and Napoli mix, both of which were rich in flavor and perfectly baked. The honeycomb buns were soft and sweet, pairing wonderfully with their signature tea blend. The Haili mint tea was a highlight — bursting with flavor and served piping hot in a glass teapot, adding to the experience.

Though Razzah has a welcoming, cozy interior that makes it perfect for gatherings, whether with family or friends, the lack of parking was a drawback. Finding a spot nearby proved challenging, especially during peak hours.

The decor, however, more than made up for any inconvenience. The walls are adorned with vintage-style artwork, adding a nostalgic touch to the space. A particular favorite of mine was the large, framed pieces featuring old streets of Khobar, bringing a sense of heritage into this modern, trendy spot.

For those who appreciate a tart refreshment, the hibiscus tea is a must-try. While it was slightly more on the sour side than expected, it still offered a refreshing twist to the menu.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Awani’ restaurant

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Updated 11 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Awani’ restaurant

  • Awani’s menu boasts a great selection of mezze (cold and hot appetizers), salads, seasoned grilled meats, and hearty stews

Experience the flavor festival of Levantine cuisine at Awani, a restaurant serving delicious meals resembling the comforting taste of home away from home.

Levantine cuisine consists of dishes from Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Jordan. It is known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Awani’s menu boasts a great selection of mezze (cold and hot appetizers), salads, seasoned grilled meats, and hearty stews.

Starting strong with Awani’s signature salads, the tabbouleh and fattoush may seem like simple dishes offered in most Levantine restaurants, but in Awani, they are a gastronomic experience, complemented by homemade dressings: a lemon-based dressing for the tabbouleh and a pomegranate molasses dressing for the fattoush.

The tabbouleh’s dressing gives it a nice tangy kick, perfect to combine with their stews or mixed grills for additional flavor.

For a more refreshing option, the fattoush is crispy from its toasted pita bread pieces and crunchy lettuce and green capsicum.

The kafta tomato meal is a ground meat stew cooked with potatoes and tomatoes. This stew is served with the classic Lebanese rice, consisting of long grain rice and toasted vermicelli noodles. This dish comes in a combo option served with a choice of salad and dessert, making it the perfect three-course meal.

Awani’s must-try dishes include the chicken fatteh and shish tawook, a grilled chicken served with a savory garlic sauce and crispy french fries.  

Finish your meal with a mulahabia, a classic Middle Eastern milk pudding infused with orange blossom water, giving it a sweet floral flavor.

Awani was first established in the UAE and then expanded to Saudi Arabia, with three locations in Riyadh: Olaya, Nakheel Mall, and Zone Mall.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Patisserie Mo Mashat in Jeddah

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Updated 08 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: Patisserie Mo Mashat in Jeddah

  • Cheesecake enthusiasts will find something to love with options including strawberry, blueberry, mango, and even coffee-flavored varieties

If you are searching for a charming cafe that blends French elegance with a modern twist, Patisserie Mo Mashat on Prince Sultan Road, Al-Basateen district, is the place to go.

This newly-opened spot in Jeddah offers an array of artisanal French pastries, cakes and beverages, creating a haven for dessert enthusiasts, whether dining in or taking the treats to-go.

As you step in, the cafe’s welcoming ambiance instantly catches the eye. Large windows fill the space with natural light, while the blend of industrial and other elements — including gold chandeliers and exposed piping — adds a contemporary touch.

Cozy seating with patterned cushions invites one to sit back and enjoy the treats, making it an ideal spot for a casual, comfortable visit.

The star is, of course, the baked goods. The croissants, particularly the crispy pesto mozzarella and almond varieties, are a standout — delicate, flaky, and packed with flavor.

These freshly baked delights embody the essence of French baking, making them a must-try. Alongside the croissants, the mixed-berry Danish and pecan tarts offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Their cake selection ranges from the rich chocolate hazelnut to the bestselling raspberry mille-feuille. Each cake is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients, offering unique flavors including the refreshing mango tres leches and the indulgent caramel pecan offering.

Cheesecake enthusiasts will find something to love with options including strawberry, blueberry, mango, and even coffee-flavored varieties.

The venue has an impressive drinks menu, with a selection of hot and cold coffees as well as refreshing mojitos. Whether you prefer a simple latte to pair with your pastry or something a little more adventurous like a flavored mojito, there is something for everyone.

What truly distinguishes Patisserie Mo Mashat is not only the high quality of its pastries but also the surprisingly affordable pricing.

Check @patisserie_mo on Instagram for more details.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Operation Seafood’ in Jeddah

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Updated 07 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Operation Seafood’ in Jeddah

Located in Jeddah’s Al-Zahra district, Operation Seafood provides a memorable dining experience for lovers of this type of cuisine. With mouth-watering appetizers and expertly prepared main courses, there is something for everyone in this intimate, casual setting.

The menu boasts an impressive variety, from dynamite fish to shrimp and oysters, ensuring flavorful dishes that impress.

Appetizers include standout cream soups, along with refreshing Rocca salad with shrimp, and celery salad with squid. Hot options to warm the palate include fish kofta and decadent crab with cream and cheese.

Operation Seafood excels in main courses, offering bags filled with shrimp, crabs, mussels and lobsters, customizable with three spice levels of hot, medium or light. Rich sauces to enhance each dish include cajun, lemon garlic, or creamy lemon.

Noteworthy tajin dishes include shrimp pasta and fish fillet with tahina, blending traditional preparation with contemporary techniques.

For sharing, generous medium and large platters feature fried fish, calamari, shrimp, and crabs over Sayadia or white rice — perfect for family or group dining. Grilled options to enhance flavors include salmon and shrimp.

Fried shrimp and calamari baskets offer a satisfying crunch, while Thai-inspired shrimp noodles and tajin shrimp with curry provide exciting flavors for adventurous eaters.

Check @operation_seafood on Instagram for more details.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Lumiere’ Restaurant in Dammam

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Updated 06 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Lumiere’ Restaurant in Dammam

  • For the main course, the butter chicken was a highlight, with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavor, a must-try dish

Lumiere, located in Dammam’s Al-Shatie district, blends spaciousness and elegance in a welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant is bathed in natural sunlight, creating a warm and inviting setting with a mix of classic and modern decor in soothing colors, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

The menu offers a wide variety of choices, from breakfast and salads to appetizers, pasta, and sweets. I started with the standout corn and sour cream appetizer — sweet, crunchy corn paired with tangy sour cream, a simple yet delightful dish.

For the main course, the butter chicken was a highlight, with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavor, a must-try dish.

To end the meal, the San Sebastian cheesecake delivered a creamy texture and balanced sweetness, a perfect conclusion.

The Arabic coffee, infused with cardamom and saffron, was also a standout — rich, aromatic, and hard to resist.

With ample parking and a prime location, Lumiere offers a dining experience with delicious food, beautiful decor, and a warm atmosphere.

Check @lumiereksa on Instagram for more details.