FACT’s definitive guide to eating out in the Red Sea City.
Jeddah’s restaurant scene continues to broaden its horizons. Homegrown concepts sit confidently alongside international arrivals, while the city’s appetite for Japanese, Italian, Lebanese and contemporary Saudi cooking has created a dining landscape with remarkable variety. There are restaurants built around a single speciality, chef-led destinations, casual neighbourhood favourites and glamorous rooms designed for an occasion. Whether you are craving handrolls by the counter, seafood beside the Red Sea or charcoal-grilled meat, these are 42 of the best restaurants in Jeddah right now.
Aiku
Handroll culture takes centre stage at Aiku, where the counter becomes part of the entertainment. The Japanese concept specialises in freshly assembled handrolls, giving diners the pleasure of eating crisp nori before it has time to soften around the rice and filling. The compact format lends itself to a meal that moves from sashimi and small plates into rolls and richer dishes. Standouts include the Spicy Tuna Handroll and Aiku Steak, where tender beef is paired with a rich sauce and a citrus lift. The Kobe Donburi provides something more substantial, while Cinnamon Bread Pudding takes the menu in a comforting direction. For something lighter, look for Hamachi Uzuruki with smoked ponzu or Suzuki with truffle ponzu. Aiku is the first dedicated handroll bar in Saudi Arabia.
Where: Aiku, Ahmad Al Attas, Al Zahra, Jeddah 23424, Saudi Arabia
Contact: @aiku.ksa
Alieia
Perched beside the Red Sea at Mövenpick Jeddah Al Nawras, Alieia makes a convincing case for lingering over seafood. Its name is derived from the Greek word associated with fishing, setting the tone for a Mediterranean seafood restaurant inspired by the islands and coastlines of Greece. Fresh seafood is central to the menu, with grilled sea bass and octopus among the dishes that best capture its straightforward approach to the sea. Greek salads add colour and acidity, while other plates lean on traditional Mediterranean ingredients and contemporary presentation. The waterfront position is a major part of the appeal, particularly around sunset, when dinner takes on the feeling of a short Greek holiday without leaving Jeddah.
Where: Alieia, Mövenpick Jeddah Al Nawras, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: www.alieia.co
Amar
For Lebanese dining with a contemporary outlook, Amar brings Beirut-inspired flavours to Jeddah Walk. The menu covers the familiar territory of cold mezze, hot mezze, salads, grills and oven-baked dishes, but there is enough personality to keep things interesting. Begin with hummus, fattoush or one of the restaurant’s more playful fatteh preparations before moving on to kebabs and charcoal-grilled meats. Fatteh Sfiha is a particularly appealing combination of Lebanese comfort food and textural contrast, while dishes such as Kebbeh Bel Laban and Gigolette served with rice offer something heartier. The kitchen also turns its hand to shawarma and steak frites. It is generous, social food designed for a table full of sharing plates.
Where: Amar, Jeddah Walk, Al Khalidiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: https://amar.redro.menu
Balcona 99
Egyptian comfort food is given a lively home at Balcona 99. The restaurant draws on the dishes and flavours found around Egyptian family tables, making it a useful choice when the craving calls for charcoal smoke and mezze. Start with tahini, baba ghanoush, falafel and fattoush before turning your attention to the grill, where Lamb Kofta, Shish Taouk and Chicken Kebab are among the staples. Egyptian Fatta brings together rice, bread, meat and sauce in suitably hearty fashion, while stuffed vine leaves provide another familiar favourite. Desserts stay reassuringly traditional, with Basbousa, Kunafa and Om Ali completing the experience. The result is warm, uncomplicated Egyptian dining.
Where: Balcona 99, La Paz Plaza, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: @balcona.sa
Black Tap
Born in New York, Black Tap has built its reputation by making burgers and milkshakes unapologetically oversized. The Jeddah outpost carries the brand’s downtown Manhattan identity through exposed finishes, street-art influences and a menu built for cheat days. Burgers are the main event, with the Classic Smash delivering the familiar combination of beef, cheese and sauce, while the Truffle Smash adds a richer edge. Wings, loaded fries and hot dogs make suitable accompaniments, but it would be difficult to visit without tackling one of the brand’s famous CrazyShakes. These towering milkshakes blur the line between drink and dessert with elaborate toppings that can include cake, sweets and whipped cream.
Where: Black Tap, La Paz Plaza, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: @blacktapksa
Cafe Laperouse
Parisian café culture is the inspiration at Café Lapérouse, which has branches in Paris, Saint-Tropez, London and Jeddah. The restaurant moves comfortably from breakfast and coffee through to afternoon tea and dinner, giving it an all-day appeal. The white and blue walls set a sophisticated tone, while the coral peach seating adds a charming touch. French classics form the backbone of the menu, although international influences reference explorer Jean-François de Galaup, Comte de Lapérouse and his voyages. Burrata with tomatoes and basil pesto makes a light beginning, while the Beef Sliders offer something more indulgent. There are sandwiches too, including smoked salmon on rye and a classic chicken club, while the menu has also featured Indian Lamb Curry among its more unexpected detours. And for those with a sweet tooth, the classic Vanilla Creme Brûlée and signature Religieuse au Chocolat are must-tries.
Where: Cafe Laperouse, Jeddah Walk, Al Khalidiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: @cafelaperouse.sa
Cocina La Cantina
Modern Mexican cooking gets a distinctive Jeddah accent at Cocina La Cantina, founded by owner and chef Salma Elmselehy and led in the kitchen by Executive Head Chef Jesus Esteban. The Al Zahra restaurant celebrates Mexican flavours while weaving in subtle Saudi influences across a menu designed for sharing. Start with Lamina Roja, combining fresh tuna with smoky red aguachile, or the Birria Quesadilla with slow-cooked beef and Oaxacan-style cheese. Tacos are a highlight, particularly the Hijazi Shrimp with mango salsa and hummar aioli, and Barbacoa filled with slow-braised lamb. Larger plates include Pollo Enmolado with chintextle mole and Costilla Negra, a charred Angus short rib with tamarind mole. Finish with Churros served alongside Adani ice cream and Mexican dark chocolate sauce.
Where: Cocina La Cantina, Sari Br Road, Al Zahra, Jeddah
Contact: www.cocinalacantina.com
Dear Duck
Breakfast can easily turn into lunch and then dinner at Dear Duck, a neighbourhood-style restaurant built around food that feels immediately familiar. The mood is relaxed and playful, with dishes that borrow from cafés, brasseries and comfort-food favourites rather than following one rigid cuisine. The Truffle Shuffle adds earthy richness to the menu, while Le Steak Frites de la Maison offers a French-inspired main course with broad appeal. Sage Brown Butter Pasta leans into nutty, comforting flavours, while Smoked Buffalo Wings offer a messier option. Earlier in the day, croissants and breakfast plates take over, including creations such as the Cosy Croissant and Ottoman Delight. Dessert is worth saving room for, particularly The Brownie Meets Sundae. The concept comes to the Red Sea city from chef and restaurateur Nihal Felemban, who is also behind The Lucky Llama.
Where: Dear Duck, La Paz Plaza, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: @dearduck.sa
Entrecote Boutique
Built around one central idea, Entrecote Boutique puts steak and fries firmly in the spotlight. The Jeddah restaurant on Sari Road takes inspiration from classic French steakhouse dining, dressing the experience in glamorous interiors while keeping the menu refreshingly focused. Black Angus Entrecote is the main attraction, sliced and served with crisp fries and the restaurant’s sauce, while a Truffle Steak option adds another layer of richness. A Walnut Salad with mustard vinaigrette brings some acidity to the table, and freshly baked brioche helps mop up every last trace of sauce. Crème Brûlée provides the suitably French finale. Rather than presenting diners with pages of choices, Entrecote Boutique knows exactly what it wants to be, making it particularly appealing when only steak frites will do.
Where: Entrecote Boutique, Sari Road, Al Khalidiyah, Jeddah
Contact: @entrecote.boutique
Jon & Vinny’s
Los Angeles casual dining arrives in Jeddah courtesy of chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, whose Jon & Vinny’s has become known for Italian-American food with a Californian sensibility. The casual spot is already popular with celebrities and has been a date night spot for A-list couples such as Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, and Jay-Z and Beyoncé. The menu is deliberately relaxed, moving from breakfast into pizza, pasta and larger plates without losing its neighbourhood feel. Start with Burrata and grilled ciabatta or Truffle Parmesan Fries before exploring the pizzas, which balance crisp bases with generous toppings. The restaurant has made its mark with the FACT team, who regularly come for the Black Lemon Pizza and Spaghetti Limone.
Where: Jon & Vinny’s, La Paz Plaza, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: @jonandvinnys.ksa
Karamna
Set at Jeddah Yacht Club, Karamna combines Lebanese cooking with a marina setting that works particularly well after dark. The menu is rooted in Levantine staples, beginning with creamy Hummus, Fattoush and Baba Ghanoush before moving into Sambousek, Kibbeh and charcoal grills. Beetroot Moutabbal introduces a slightly different spin on a familiar mezze dish, while the meat selection is geared towards generous sharing. Fresh salads and warm breads keep the table busy, and Baklava provides the traditional sweet finish. There is nothing overly complicated about the proposition, and that is part of its charm.
Where: Karamna, Jeddah Yacht Club, Al Kurnaysh Branch Road, Jeddah
Contact: @karamna_ksa
Kilo Kitchen
Bali-born Kilo Kitchen has brought its boundary-crossing cooking to Jeddah, combining Latin American flavours with Asian ingredients and techniques. Seafood Ceviche combines prawns and calamari with aji amarillo aioli and sweet potato chips, while Truffled Najel Yuzu layers local fish with king crab and truffle ponzu. Chicken Tsukune draws on Japanese grilling traditions, and Beef Birria Tacos turn towards Mexico. There is also Wasabi Tuna Tartare, Popcorn Prawn Tacos and sushi alongside a Duck and Pomelo Salad and grilled steak. It sounds eclectic on paper, but Kilo’s appeal lies in those collisions. Set along the Jeddah Corniche, Kilo Kitchen offers a refined, lifestyle-led setting, ideal for relaxed evenings by the water.
Where: Kilo Kitchen, OIA Downtown, Al Kurnaysh Br Road, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: @kilojed
Kuuru
One of Jeddah’s most accomplished contemporary Japanese restaurants, Kuuru explores Nikkei cooking through the meeting of Japanese technique and Peruvian flavours. The restaurant has also earned international recognition, earning FACT Dining Awards and placing sixth on Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants list for 2026. The menu is packed with dishes that reward sharing, from Tuna Toast and ceviche to nigiri and robata cooking. Niku Panca pairs Wagyu tataki with rocoto jam, avocado and yuzu truffle, while Shrimp Crocante brings passion fruit and almonds into play. Black Cod with yuzu teriyaki is another strong order, as are the crunchy prawns and Wagyu sliders. Sit near the open kitchen if possible, where the precision of the cooking adds another dimension to the experience.
Where: Kuuru, Al Malik Road, Al Khalidiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: https://kuururestaurant.com
Le Traiteur
Le Traiteur has added a little ooh-la-la to Jeddah’s dining scene. The fancy French restaurant has grandma-chic dining rooms and a tres chic menu. The Jeddah restaurant leans into the rituals of traditional dining, with rich sauces, premium ingredients and dishes that would feel equally at home in an established Parisian dining room. Duck Confit and Braised Lamb Shank with merguez jus show the kitchen’s preference for slow-cooked depth, while Dover Sole Meunière keeps things timeless. Roast Chicken for two introduces a tableside element and makes a natural centrepiece for sharing. For dessert, Crème Brûlée is the obvious classic, although the alcohol-free Grand Marnier-style soufflé offers a more theatrical finale.
Where: Le Traiteur, Abu Al Abbas Ibn Abdulmutalib, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: https://letraiteur.com.sa
Lola Brasserie
Channelling a Parisian brasserie through a contemporary Jeddah lens, Lola is built around the enduring appeal of French comfort food. Steak au Poivre is an obvious order, pairing beef tenderloin with the peppery sauce that makes the dish a brasserie staple. Provence-marinated prawns provide a lighter route into the menu, while French Onion Soup, Moules and Rigatoni Bolognese demonstrate its broad European remit. Grilled Thermidor and Lola Sliders add a little more personality to proceedings. The dining room has the kind of welcoming energy that allows Lola to work for a quick lunch, date night or extended dinner, rather than feeling reserved solely for occasions. Lola Brasserie is the latest project from the Leylaty Group, the team behind the FACT Dining Award-winning Kuuru.
Where: Lola Brasserie, An Najm Ath Thaqib, Al Khalidiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: @lolabrasserieksa
MANKO
Peru drives the menu at MANKO, where ceviche, tacos and Japanese-influenced raw preparations bring plenty of colour to the table. The concept embraces the historic connection between Peruvian and Japanese cuisines, meaning sashimi and nigiri sit comfortably beside chilli, citrus and leche de tigre. Carretillero Cebiche is a strong place to begin, combining seafood with rocoto leche de tigre, corn and sweet potato. Wagyu Tacos, Tuna Tacos and Salmon Tacos keep things informal, while the raw section invites diners into chef-selected nigiri and sashimi. Guacamole, empanadas and crisp corn tempura round out a menu made for sharing. Located at Jeddah Walk, the concept originated in Paris, France.
Where: MANKO, Jeddah Walk, Al Khalidiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: @manko.ksa
Maritime by Cédric Vongerichten
At The Jeddah EDITION, Maritime gives chef Cédric Vongerichten a platform to explore the links between French technique and the flavours of Asia and Arabia. The chef, who trained at acclaimed restaurants including El Bulli, brings considerable pedigree to a menu designed around sharing. Seafood plays an important role, with dishes such as Shrimp Dumplings paired with lemongrass beurre blanc and caviar demonstrating the restaurant’s cross-cultural approach. Crispy spring rolls, local seafood and spice-driven sauces continue that conversation, moving between French foundations and Asian acidity, heat and aromatics. The setting inside one of Jeddah’s most design-focused hotels adds to the occasion, but Maritime rests on Vongerichten’s ability to make familiar flavour combinations feel distinctive without becoming needlessly complicated.
Where: Maritime by Cédric Vongerichten, The Jeddah EDITION, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: www.maritimejeddah.com
Meez
Saudi and wider Middle Eastern flavours form the foundation of Meez, although the kitchen is happy to bend the rules. The restaurant specialises in shareable food and familiar recipes presented with contemporary touches. Laban Setto has become a signature, while Crispy Ouzi combines tenderloin, rice and cranberry gravy. Kumar Chicken takes a detour towards Indian spices with a tomato and butter sauce, and Chicken and Ricotta Makaroona applies another international influence to a regional comfort-food format. Koshari Balls offer a playful interpretation of an Egyptian staple. Dessert is similarly indulgent, with Sticky Date Pudding, Hot Cookie Pie and Lotus Basbusa among the possibilities.
Where: Meez, Sultan Street, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: https://meez.sa
Meat The Fish
Part restaurant, part celebration of great produce, Meat The Fish began with a straightforward obsession: sourcing good meat and fresh seafood. The Jeddah concept develops that philosophy into a Mediterrasian menu where land and sea receive equal attention. The signature Beetroot Salmon is one of the most distinctive dishes, bringing vivid colour to the table, while Nori Zaatar Burrata neatly encapsulates the restaurant’s East-meets-Mediterranean identity. Beef Carnitas Tacos add another international reference point, and the menu can also move through bao, premium cuts, seafood and changing daily specials.
Where: Meat The Fish, Sulaiman Bin Ateeq Street, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: @meatthefish
Mimosa
Making its way from Paris to Jeddah, Mimosa opened at the city’s Cascade by Jeddah Walk. The restaurant brings the flavours of the French Riviera to the city, and Chef Jean-Francois Piege is the mastermind behind this menu, which moves from raw seafood and European classics into pasta, risotto and serious cuts of meat. Kimchi-kissed Tuna brings heat and acidity to the raw selection, while Citrus Salmon Crunch offers another bright seafood starter. Escargots with herb butter provide a French touch before heartier plates such as Braised Beef Short Ribs, Beef Tenderloin or Steak Frites. Seafood remains well represented through Grilled Sea Bass and Shrimp Risotto, while Gnocchi Pesto and Truffle Risotto cater to those craving carbohydrates. Following its success in Paris, the restaurant expanded to St. Tropez and recently debuted in London at The Langham.
Where: Mimosa, Cascade at Jeddah Walk, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: @mimosa.jeddah
MYAZŪ
Japanese technique and international influences meet at MYAZŪ, a Jeddah favourite that has also secured a place among MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants. Chef director Ian Pengelley has helped shape the brand’s culinary identity, while the Jeddah kitchen is led by Head Chef Michael Vincent Bawasanta. The menu moves confidently between sashimi, sushi, dumplings and robata cooking. Scallop and Foie Gras Dumplings are particularly luxurious, while Burrata with pickled beetroot, truffle and yuzu demonstrates the restaurant’s willingness to look beyond Japan. Black Angus Korean BBQ brings smoke and spice, and Lobster Rice is enriched with sriracha black pepper, spicy ponzu and truffle butter. For a more straightforward order, the chef’s selection of nigiri and sashimi showcases the quality of the seafood.
Where: MYAZŪ, Al Basateen Mall, Al Rawdah, Jeddah
Contact: @myazusaudi
NAC Jeddah
London-born NAC has found a natural home in Jeddah with an all-day menu designed around the kind of dishes people return to repeatedly. Brunch is a major part of the appeal, but the restaurant moves easily into lunch and dinner with salads, pasta, burgers and larger plates. The Truffle Burger remains one of its defining orders, while Grilled Cajun Chicken and Salmon Paillard offer lighter alternatives. Rigatoni in pink sauce and Corn and White Truffle Risotto cater to comfort-food cravings, and Black Angus Steak au Poivre adds a brasserie note. NAC’s sweet options are part of the reason it has such a loyal following, from Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies with Frosties soft serve to French toast topped with raspberries and clotted cream.
Where: NAC, La Perle by Oud, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: @nacriyadh
Niyyali
If the sound of falafel, fatteh and fattoush gets your stomach rumbling, then you’ll want to dine at this FACT award-winning restaurant. With the Red Sea spread out beyond its terrace, Niyyali combines one of Jeddah’s strongest restaurant views with modern Lebanese cooking at Shangri-La Jeddah. Hummus Truffle has become one of its best-known signatures, adding earthy richness to a Lebanese essential, while Shrimp Fatteh layers seafood with crisp bread and creamy yoghurt. Wagyu with cherry demonstrates the kitchen’s willingness to take Lebanese flavours in a richer direction, while Fattoush, grills and mezze keep traditionalists happy. The current kitchen is led by Chef Hassan, whose approach centres on Lebanese flavours with a modern touch. Come before sunset if possible, as the transition from daylight to the illuminated Corniche is a significant part of the experience.
Where: Niyyali, Shangri-La Jeddah, Corniche Road, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: www.niyyali.com
NOTO
Southern Italy provides the reference point at NOTO, where Neapolitan pizza, pasta and Italian plates make up a crowd-friendly menu. Parmigiana di Melanzane offers all the familiar comforts of aubergine, tomato and cheese, while tableside Truffle Risotto adds theatre and aroma to dinner. The pizza selection gives the restaurant its casual side, with Neapolitan foundations keeping the dough at the centre of the experience. Burrata, salads and soups provide lighter beginnings, including Porcini Mushroom Soup, before mains move into pasta and Milanese-style preparations. NOTO originates in Paris and draws inspiration from Sicilian Baroque architecture, and is a dazzling dining destination with shimmering chandeliers and white tablecloths.
Where: Mimosa, Cascade at Jeddah Walk, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: @noto.ksa
Olev
Chef Shwan Baban looks across the Levant, Anatolia and the Aegean at Olev, one of Jeddah’s notable 2026 arrivals. The menu is rooted in the flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean, with OLEV Flatbread, Mount Za’atar Labneh and Smoked Levantine Mutabal making a strong opening trio, while Anatolian Ezme Crush adds heat and freshness. Ararat Manti Dumplings provide a comforting transition into the larger dishes, and Aegean Calamari with toum makes seafood difficult to resist. Chraime Prawns bring spice and acidity, while Charred Aegean Lamb Chops and OLEV Koftecesi showcase the grill. The interiors are equally considered, featuring marble tabletops, checkered flooring, wood-panelled walls, curated artwork and animated ceiling lighting.
Where: Olev, 11 West Street, Ash Shanti, Jeddah
Contact: @olev.sa
Pampas
Fire does most of the talking at Pampas, the Argentine-inspired steakhouse inside Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Premium beef is cooked over acacia wood, giving the meat a pronounced smoky character while keeping the experience focused on the elemental pleasure of grilling. The One Metre Steak is made for committed carnivores and larger groups, while mixed grills provide an opportunity to sample several cuts. Lamb and goat can also feature, alongside seafood platters for anyone less interested in beef. The setting boasts panoramic views of Jeddah, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Where: Pampas, Assila A Luxury Collection Hotel, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: www.morecravings.com
Rasoi by Vineet
Acclaimed Chef Vineet Bhatia brings his progressive approach to Indian cuisine to Rasoi by Vineet at Mövenpick Hotel Tahlia Jeddah. Bhatia became the first Indian chef to earn a Michelin star, and his food is known for taking recognisable Indian flavours into more contemporary territory. Malai Lobster is one of the restaurant’s standout dishes, combining luxurious seafood with gentle spice and richness. Lamb Biryani offers something more traditional, while the wider menu moves through grills, curries and carefully composed plates inspired by India’s regional cuisines. Finish with Saffron Rasmalai, which gives the familiar milk-based dessert a fragrant lift.
Where: Rasoi by Vineet, Mövenpick Hotel Tahlia Jeddah, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: https://rasoibyvineetjeddah.com
Ricci San
Playful contemporary Japanese cooking defines Ricci San, where sushi, robatayaki and hot pots sit alongside dishes shaped by international influences. Wagyu Tacos are among the restaurant’s chef recommendations, wrapping rich beef in a format designed for sharing. The sushi selection ranges from sashimi and nigiri to more elaborate rolls, including Tempura Shrimp and Scallop preparations. Spicy Beef Noodles deliver heat and comfort, while Truffle Hot Pot turns towards deeper, earthier flavours. There are also dishes such as Shrimp Fried Rice and Dirty Wings for diners who prefer something less traditional. The room has an energetic feel that matches the menu, making Ricci San more social restaurant than solemn sushi temple. In Japanese, ricci is commonly used as a suffix meaning “dear,” “Mr,” and “Mrs.” So the name translates to Dear Ricci.
Where: Ricco San, King Abdul Aziz Road, Abhur Al Junoobiyah, Jeddah
Contact: https://ricci-san.com
ROKA Jeddah
Robatayaki is the heart of ROKA, the contemporary Japanese restaurant created by restaurateur Rainer Becker. The concept centres on the robata grill, where meat, seafood and vegetables are cooked over charcoal and sent to the table for sharing. Beef Fillet with chilli, ginger and spring onion showcases the grill particularly well, while Yellowtail Sashimi with yuzu and truffle provides a cooler counterpoint. Crispy Prawn with avocado and soy is another easy favourite, alongside Shrimp Tempura with chilli mayonnaise and wasabi. Even the sides receive attention, including baked potato with yuzu cream. The restaurant features a Japanese paper wall, cast-concrete wall tiles, and a mill-scale entrance tunnel, blending texture and colour for a signature ROKA result.
Where: ROKA, Cascade at Jeddah Walk, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: www.rokarestaurant.com
Samia’s Dish
Home-style Saudi cooking receives a personal touch at Samia’s Dish, where Chef Samia herself remains closely associated with the food. The restaurant places local and Hijazi recipes at the centre of the experience rather than treating Saudi cuisine as a decorative theme. Meat Brik is one of its defining dishes, wrapping seasoned meat in crisp pastry before adding honey for a sweet and savoury finish. Fattah, hummus and freshly made pies continue the homestyle approach, with dishes designed to feel generous rather than overly manipulated. The cooking has earned recognition for preserving the warmth and familiarity of Saudi food while giving it a restaurant setting. For visitors wanting to explore regional flavours beyond kabsa alone, Samia’s Dish offers an accessible introduction, while locals may find plenty that feels reassuringly familiar.
Where: Samia’s Dish, Ahmad Al Attas, Al Zahra, Jeddah
Contact: @samias_dish
San Carlo Cicchetti
Venice-inspired small plates are the speciality at San Carlo Cicchetti, which translates the Italian tradition of grazing over several dishes into a lively Jeddah restaurant. The menu invites the table to share antipasti, seafood, handmade pasta and pizza rather than committing to individual courses. Burrata Bruschetta makes a satisfying start, while artisanal pizzas and fresh pasta provide the meal with greater substance. Seafood is another cornerstone of the concept, reflecting the Venetian inspiration behind the restaurant. Dessert should not be overlooked either, with Italian cakes and gelato providing a suitably indulgent ending.
Where: San Carlo Cicchetti, Al Basateen Mall, Al Rawdah, Jeddah
Contact: @cicchettisaudi
Shababik
For generous Lebanese dining, Shababik covers almost every base. Breakfast, soups, raw meat preparations, cold and hot mezze, grills and substantial mains all appear, making this the sort of restaurant where restraint can be difficult. Earlier in the day, Cheesy Manakish and Kaak and eggs create a classic Levantine breakfast spread. Later, hummus, fattoush and hot starters give way to mixed grills and traditional main courses. Chicken Liver provides a richer addition to the mezze selection, while Baklava makes an obvious ending. Rather than reinventing Lebanese cuisine, Shababik concentrates on abundance, recognisable flavours and the pleasure of a table crowded with dishes.
Where: Shababik, Ana Ghair Mall, Prince Sultan Road, Ar Rawdah, Jeddah
Contact: https://shababikrestaurant.com
Shang Palace
Inside Shangri-La Jeddah, Shang Palace brings the hotel group’s celebrated Chinese restaurant heritage to the Red Sea. Cantonese cooking is central, with handmade dim sum, seafood, barbecue dishes and regional Chinese specialities forming the menu. Executive Chinese Chef Sky Wong Kum Choy brings more than three decades of experience to the kitchen, strengthening a restaurant already known for traditional technique. The Yum Cha offering is particularly appealing for groups, allowing diners to work through baskets of dumplings and other small plates at a leisurely pace. Wagyu Pastry has been among the restaurant’s recognised signatures, combining crisp pastry with a rich beef filling, while larger dishes lean towards Cantonese classics. The elegant surroundings make Shang Palace a strong option when Chinese food is required with a greater sense of occasion.
Where: Shang Palace, Shangri-La Jeddah, Corniche Road, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: @shangrila_jeddah
Siddharta Lounge
Across the region, Siddharta Lounge has become a byword for style and mingling, so it was only a matter of time before this concept landed in Saudi Arabia. Part restaurant, part rooftop escape, Siddharta Lounge Jeddah comprises a restaurant, a lounge, and a rooftop pool, featuring comfortable sun loungers, elegant dinner tables, and captivating views of the city. And like other outposts, the menu here epitomises a modern twist on the cherished Nouvelle Cuisine tradition. Among these delights are signature dishes such as the Siddharta Lounge Volcano Maki roll, alongside delectable dishes like Lobster Gyoza and Sakana Pot, each artfully plated to enhance the dining experience.
Where: Siddharta Lounge, Assila A Luxury Collection Hotel, Al Andalus, Jeddah
Contact: @siddhartaloungejeddah
Sultani Restaurant & Lounge
Persian food takes centre stage at Sultani, where aromatic rice, slow-cooked stews and charcoal-grilled kebabs provide the foundation of the menu. Situated not too far from the city’s popular Cenomi U Walk, this restaurant serves authentic Iranian cuisine that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Stepping inside, the space is bathed in green hues, while the ceiling features green bushes and hanging planters, giving it a garden-like feel with a sophisticated touch. Start with Zeytoon Parvardeh, a northern Iranian preparation of green olives with garlic, pomegranate molasses and walnuts, or Kashk-o Bademjan, where aubergine meets whey and fried onions. Naturally, Kebab Koobideh is another essential order.
Where: Sultani Restaurant & Lounge, Sari Br Road, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: @sultani.ksa
Tamees House
Breakfast is reason enough to visit Tamees House, a homegrown concept rooted in the popular foods of the Hijaz. As the name suggests, freshly baked tamees bread is central to proceedings and is best torn apart and used to scoop up foul, qilaba, eggs and other breakfast dishes. Moutabbaq and sambosa add further texture, while the menu extends beyond the morning with kebabs and regional plates. The restaurant’s appeal lies in taking everyday Saudi food seriously without making it inaccessible. For anyone exploring Jeddah’s dining scene, it serves as a useful reminder that some of the city’s most satisfying meals are built around bread, beans, spice and recipes that predate the current restaurant boom.
Where: Tamees House, UpTown Square, Al Amir Fawwaz Al Junoobi, Jeddah
Contact: https://tameeshouse.com
The Good Butcher
The clue is in the name at The Good Butcher, a steakhouse and butchery where premium meat receives the attention it deserves. The Jeddah restaurant by Basma Elkhereiji takes over the space previously occupied by Niobu, combining serious cuts with more composed starters and pasta. Beef Carpaccio uses Black Angus with roasted garlic mayonnaise, fried capers and grilled artichokes, while Vitello Tonnato adds pickled celery and an intriguing touch of espresso to the classic combination of veal and tuna sauce. Wagyu Bolognese takes the butcher-shop philosophy into pasta, and steaks remain central for diners who prefer their meat with minimal distraction. A sea-facing location adds another dimension to the experience. For dessert, Cardamom Crème Brûlée provides a regional accent to a familiar French finale.
Where: The Good Butcher, Mövenpick Jeddah Al Nawras, Ash Shati, Jeddah
Contact: @thegoodbutcher.sa
The Lucky Llama
Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei cooking is given a distinctly personal identity at The Lucky Llama, created by Chef Nihal Felemban. The restaurant mixes the citrus, chilli and herbs of Peru with the precision of Japanese seafood preparation, producing a menu that feels particularly well suited to sharing. Salmon Tiradito is one of the essential orders, allowing the freshness of the fish to work with a bright, acidic dressing. TNT Shrimp is another house favourite, offering considerably more crunch and richness. Sushi, ceviche-inspired dishes and warm plates continue the cross-cultural theme, while the colourful surroundings prevent proceedings from becoming too serious.
Where: The Lucky Llama, Ibrahim Al-Anqari, Al Mohammadiyyah, Jeddah
Contact: www.theluckyllama.co
Toki
Does the sound of dim sum get your stomach rumbling? Well, a visit to Toki is a must. A long-standing name in Jeddah’s Chinese dining scene, Toki specialises in Peking and Cantonese classics served in an elegant setting. Whole Peking Duck remains one of the most compelling centrepieces, bringing crisp skin, tender meat, pancakes and condiments together at the table. Oatmeal Soft-Shell Crab with mint provides a more unusual combination of sweetness, crunch and savoury seafood, while stir-fries and seafood broaden the menu considerably. A Toki-style Tomahawk brings Chinese seasoning to a steakhouse-sized cut for groups wanting something dramatic. With decades of familiarity behind it, Toki is a restaurant that values classical flavours while still leaving space for occasional contemporary flourishes.
Where: Toki, King Abdulaziz Road, Al Khalidiyah, Jeddah
Contact: @tokiksa
Tokyo
Few restaurants can claim as significant a place in Saudi Arabia’s Japanese dining story as Tokyo. Founded in 1985, the homegrown brand was among the pioneers that helped introduce Japanese restaurant culture to the Kingdom and has since expanded its presence from Riyadh to Jeddah. Sushi remains central, with Salmon Sushi and other rolls sitting alongside sashimi, noodles and rice dishes. Dynamite Shrimp provides a crowd-pleasing hit of crunch and spice, while the Lobster Sandwich demonstrates the brand’s willingness to move beyond traditional formats. Teppanyaki is another important part of Tokyo’s heritage, introducing an element of live cooking to the experience. After four decades, the restaurant’s enduring appeal lies in accessibility.
Where: Tokyo, King Abdulaziz Road, Al Muhammadiyah, Jeddah
Contact: https://tokyoarabia.com
Villa Fayrouz
Lebanese comfort food and generous hospitality define Villa Fayrouz, a long-running restaurant built around the dishes of Beirut and the wider Levant. Chef Kinan brings a personal connection to the cuisine, having grown up around family food traditions in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley. The menu begins as all good Lebanese meals should, with Hummus, Falafel, Stuffed Grape Leaves and a succession of hot and cold mezze. From the charcoal grill come Lamb Kebabs, Shish Taouk and Kafta, while Mousakhan brings sumac, onions and bread together in one of the region’s great comfort dishes. Dessert remains traditional with Baklava, Kunafa and Maamoul.
Where: Villa Fayrouz, Prince Sultan Road, Jeddah
Contact: @villafayrouz.sa
Yaza
Saudi cuisine becomes a canvas for contemporary cooking at Yaza, the restaurant from Chef Hakim Bagabas and Ebraheem Hashem. Rather than focusing on a single region, the concept looks across the Kingdom’s 13 regions and reworks local dishes using international techniques. Jareesh arrives with Parmesan and muarraq lamb stew, while Qursan Lasagna turns a familiar Saudi dish into something recognisably Italian in format. Lamb Debyaza draws on Hijazi flavours, Lamb Haneeth looks towards the south, and Chicken Kubaibat takes inspiration from Hail. Seafood Tagine and Sayadiya Paella continue the cross-cultural conversation. Even Wagyu Ribeye is paired with Madini-inspired hollandaise.
Where: Yaza, Prince Sultan Road, As Salamah, Jeddah
Contact: www.eatyaza.com