Wondering where the best restaurants in Jeddah are? Your search ends here.
Whether you’re craving an incredible Indian or European meal, traditional Saudi cuisine, fancy breakfast or magnificently messy burgers, Jeddah has truly comprehensive culinary sprawl. But which restaurants shine brightest in a city full of stars?
After a full year of reviewing – all anonymously, all paid for by the brand – the Time Out Jeddah Restaurant Awards 2023 winners can finally be revealed. Across 15 competitive categories, one winner and two highly commended restaurants have been selected from a top 10, in addition to Time Out‘s overall Restaurant of the Year.
Time Out has been reviewing restaurants in cities across the Middle East for more than 20 years, and now 2023 marks the very first Time Out Jeddah Restaurant Awards, dedicated exclusively to unearthing Jeddah eateries that are worth your hard-earned riyals and precious time.
Are you ready to dig in? Read on to check out Time Out’s guide to the very best restaurants in Jeddah.
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REGIONAL
THEMED
GRAND PRIX
REGIONAL
Best Americas Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: The Lucky Llama
Taking inspiration from traditional Peruvian dishes and combining them with Japanese flair, this new eatery has already become a go-to spot for many. The modern fusion menu is designed to share so round up friends and work your way through all the dishes. Luck doesn’t have anything to do with the success of the Al Mohammadiyyah eatery, but skill, attentive service and culinary creativity. We can’t wait to see more.
Al Mohammadiyyah, @theluckyllama.co (55 507 0625).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Burnt by Buns
After comfort food with a twist and striking presentations? Burnt by Buns is here. The As Salamah eatery has roots in American barbecue, but with a distinct Korean edge. The result is a menu overflowing with filling, inventive plates that help clearly define the restaurant. Whether you come for an early lunch or a late-night dinner, you’ll be set up for the rest of the day with these USA-sized plates with equally big flavours.
As Salamah, @burnt.sa (53 206 7991).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Pampas
This chic Argentinian steakhouse is a cut above. Pampas is located in the Assila, A Luxury Collection Hotel, and boasts soaring views of the city. The eatery also ranks high for its surf and turf options with a few twists and knowledgeable staff. All in all, it ticks all of the boxes. So, gather up your carnivore friends, put on your finest and enjoy a special dinner with special cityscape vistas.
Assila, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Al Andalus, @assilahotel (59 420 2727).
Best Asian Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: Myazu
Myazu is frequently tipped as one of the best restaurants in the city, and it is now officially a winner when it comes to the best Asian restaurants in Jeddah. The fine-dining Japanese spot lives up to the praise. With dramatic presentations, a laser-focus on quality ingredients and staff who equally understand how it’s the details that really make an experience special, this is one dining experience you likely won’t forget.
Al Basateen Mall, Ar Rawdah, @myazusaudi (92 001 0434).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Kuuru
There is no need to give Kuuru much of an introduction because is it known across the city as a top place to enjoy a fine-dining Japanese meal in Jeddah. Every plate is created with precise attention to detail from the sashimi to the dessert. A dinner at Kurru is worth those extra riyals.
Al Khalidiyyah, @kuuruksa (53 250 0123).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Nobu
Nobu is an international culinary heavyweight that is delivering in the Red Sea city, with unmistakable views that make the venue its own. Of course need to gazie out at the water (and likely snap a few photos). Similarly, you need to try the miso black cod before you can say you’ve visited. Join the stylish crowd for Japanese dishes as you listen to the live DJ and watch the chefs executing precise plates at the different counters.
Ash Shati, @nobujeddah (50 880 2206).
Best European Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: San Carlo Cicchetti
Travel to Italy while remaining in the Saudi capital at San Carlo Cicchetti. With a buzzy, colourful décor and top service, this is one Italian fine-dining eatery that captures the ‘la dolce dita’ (the sweet life vibes) – quite literally in the case of desserts. The name ‘cicchetti’ is a small, sharing Venetian plate. Take a cue from the name and bring your friends along to work your way through the menu.
Ar Rawdah, @cicchettisaudi (92 000 4060).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The Social Kitchen
It’s time to gather up your friends and head over to The Social Kitchen for a a relaxed catch up over a mix of European eats in a welcoming atmosphere. The venue is elegant but without any pretension, and staff ensure you’re taken care over without ever being overbearing. From a meal Milanese to pain perdu (French toast), you can eat your way across the continent. We suggest sharing with your crew.
Ar Rawdah, @thesocialkitchen.ksa (55 516 3200).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Tomillo by Sama
One of the best European spots in the city, this elegant restaurant has a signature Mediterranean-leaning menu that cherry-picks highlights across different countries and foodie inspirations then combines them into something special that is singularly Tomillo by Sama and presented with serious style. It’s all the work of chef Sama Jaad. Have one meal and you’ll understand why the Ash Shati venue draws regulars back.
Ash Shati, @tomillobysama (55 087 4422).
Best Indian Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: Rasoi by Vineet
Created by award-winning chef Vineet Bhatia, the goal is to take traditional Indian cuisine to a new level with the attention to deal paid to each and every dish. The Al Andalus venue is already raising the strong Indian restaurant dining scene in the city. That is saying something.
Al Andalus, @rasoibyvineetjeddah (12 213 2000).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: 5 Rivers
There are plenty of restaurants in Ascott Sari Jeddah’s complex, but 5 Rivers is always full. It serves an extensive menu that showcases signature flavours from across India in a cool setting. It’s a popular pick with groups, and the restaurant’s upper floor is reserved for families, so plan your next big family gathering here and order everything that sounds good to share. You likely won’t be disappointed.
Ascott Sari Jeddah, Al Zahra, @5rivers.sa (50 826 5666).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Babulal
At Babulal, the butter chicken and chicken masala are just the beginning of a culinary adventure that’ll keep you coming back for more. The friendly staff and quick service will impress you as much as the varied menu. Listen up veggies, there is plenty for you, too.
Al Andalus, @eatbabulal (55 696 9400).
Best MENA Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: Shababïk
This eatery’s has over 30 years of experience in Lebanon, and it has long established itself in Jeddah as a dining destination. The Lebanese eatery has some of the top service that we have experienced in the city, and the food is also up to such a high standard. The menu is vast and prices are reasonable. So, head over for unparalleled dining experience at Shababïk.
Ar Rawdah, @shababikksa (92 000 3945).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Meez
Discover a fusion of modern Middle Eastern dishes that aren’t your average mezze at Meez. See the shrimp fatteh and chicken Kumar. Add in lively music and equally bubbly staff, and you’ve got yourself a regular restaurant whenever you fancy some MENA flavours with a difference.
Sultan St, Al Salamah, @meezstreet (12 616 5505).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Niyyali
Niyyali is one of the newest eateries in Jeddah, but the Shangri-La spot has already solidified its reputation as being a spot for the cool foodie crowd, and for having one of the best and biggest terraces in the city. (Overlooking the Jeddah Corniche Circuit and Red Sea only ads to the appeal.) We’re certainly not forgetting about the food, either. If you’re after outstanding Lebanese served by friendly staff who know the menu inside and out, you know where to go.
Shangri-La Jeddah, Ash Shati, @niyyali.jeddah (12 696 8888).
Best Saudi Restaurants in Jeddah
WINNER: Al Saddah
When it comes to madghout, madhbi and mandi, there’s a place in town that truly stands out: Al Saddah. Its rice and chicken dishes are heroes that make this spot consistently recommended to those in the city. Equally, it is the spot that Jeddah residents return to themselves. Some say what truly sets this eatery apart is the green sauce with fried onions others say it’s perfectly cooked meat. What everyone should agree on is that if you’re after a top Saudi meal in Jeddah, it’s time to go to Al Saddah.
An Nahdah, alsaddahrest.com (92 003 3907).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Al Romansiah
Since its opening, Al Romansiah has quickly become popular for its mandi. This family-friendly spot also offers a variety of kabsa, kebabs, desserts and fresh juices that are local favourites. Choose to have your meal at its open dining tables or in VIP private rooms with your brood. This is one place you’ll be able to enjoy a feast without breaking the bank.
Al Bawadi, @alromansiahksa (92 000 0144).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Tofareya
Enjoy a taste of grandma’s cooking with a modern twist right out of the kitchen of Tofareya. The Al Zahra eatery is doing things differently by considering how to interpret classic Saudi dishes in more modern ways. It is succeeding in a beautiful space. You’ll still find your comforting go-tos on the menu, including jareesh, lamb or beef and fresh juices.
Prince Sultan Rd, Al Zahra, @tofareya (53 137 9554).
THEMED
Best Bakeries in Jeddah
WINNER: Bread Ahead
Straight from London, Bread Ahead is taking Jeddah’s pastry scene to the next level category. When it came to the Red Sea city, there were queues around the block. TO this day, diners continue to line up for freshly baked bites, including those signature doughnuts and cheesecake. If you want to learn how to make the baked goodies at home, the Al Zahra venue has classes available, but nothing can really top the versions made by the experts hence by Bread Ahead was named the best bakery in Jeddah.
Al Zahra, @breadaheadksa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Sweet Bread
Sweet Bread doesn’t just stop at loaves. Bite-size cakes, date cupcakes, fruity loafs, muffins, toast, mini waffles, croissants – you name it, Sweet Bread has likely got it. And it is highly likely you will want to sample a bit of everything at the Al Andalus bakery. It’s located in a bustling complex, but there is a reason this place is frequentlyfilled.
Al Andalus, @sweetbread.ksa (12 233 7073).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The Social Bakery
Get inspired by the name and bring your friends and family for breakfast at this popular Ar Rawdah spot. Alternatively, you can pick up a range of baked treats to enjoy at a picnic. The selection of sweets, including the blueberry tart, croissants and meringues is so tempting, that dinners will go from The Social Kitchen next door and pick up something at The Social Bakery. It doesn’t matter how full they are. Your stomach could be bursting but thoughts will still be on the sweet.
Ar Rawdah, @thesocialbakery.ksa (55 448 5571).
Best Breakfast in Jeddah
WINNER: Ext. Seventeen
This home-grown, female-run eatery from chef Amal Fakeih serves cuisine inspired by Saudi flavours. It does the job so well, it’s not unheard of to find yourself lingering on into lunch, especially with the eatery meant to be your second home away from home. The shakshouka, apple pancakes and labneh toast with sun-dried tomato are popular picks that will have you lingering. Pull up a chair to the top breakfast spot.
Al Yamamah, @extseventeen (12 698 8897).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Burnt by Buns
Whether you’re having a very late night or an earlier morning, Burnt by Buns should leave you satisfied. The As Salamah venue is open 24 hours with a good chunk of the day dedicated to breakfast. The overall menu is American leaning with Korean twists, and that is reflected in the brekkie menu. Think big portions, comforting classics from eggs Benny to pancakes with unique twists. There are also lighter options so there should be something for all moods and palates.
As Salamah, @burnt.sa (53 206 7991).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The Morning Call
After a low-key breakfast spot that turns out favourites? This Al Mohammadiyyah spot is the perfect start to a weekend, especially with there is massive egg-filled croissants, smoky shakshuoka and French toast to dig in to. We highly encourage you to make it a leisurely meal at one of the table inside or on the patio, but breakfast boxes are also available. When morning calls, you likely know where to go.
Al Mohammadiyyah, @themorningcall.sa.
Best Buffet in Jeddah
WINNER: The Waterfront Kitchen
One of the newest buffets in town, the Shangri-La Jeddah’s picturesque restaurant came out strong with its brilliant buffet. As you have likely guessed, the restaurant is inspired by yacht living, and that is enhanced by a nautical theme and captivating views of the Red Sea. The live cooking stations showcase a range of favourites that draw inspiration from the globe from dishes from the tandoor to wood-fired pizzas to Mongolian grill and seafood. From an Asian counter to a multiple of mezze, you’ll want to be strategic to try as much as you can. Definitely do save room for something sweet from the dessert bar.
Shangri-La Jeddah, Ash Shati, @thewaterfrontkitchen (12 696 8888).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Reyhana
If you’re after a buffet in an awe-inspiring setting, The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah certainly as you covered with its buffet at Rehyana. Take a seat in the opulent interiors of the hotel and prepare for a dining experience with helpful staff and a lavish spread. The theme of the buffet can rotate, but whether you’re enjoying a Thai meal or Italian, know that variety, service and those incredible sights will reamin constant. (Be sure to pull your eyes away from the plethora of mains to see if you can spot King Fahd’s Fountain from the window). Whatever you do, don’t forget the dessert room. Yup, we said ‘room’.
The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, Al Hamra, @theritzcarltonjeddah (12 231 4449).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Twenty Four
Assila is upping the game when it comes to the best buffets in Jeddah. Sample your way across the extensive selection while enjoying views of Tahlia Street at Twenty Four. The international buffet should have multiple options to satisfy whatever you’re craving. You can also ask one of the chefs at the live cooking stations to whip you up something on offer. Twenty Four also offers a weekly brunch.
Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Al Andalus, @assilahotel (59 192 1347).
Best Burger in Jeddah
WINNER: Section-B
This home-grown Jeddah brand appears to have cracked the code on what makes a brilliant burger. With multiple locations and hungry diners frequently filling tables, we would say that the masses agree. Simplicity is not always easy, nor is breaking out of burger concepts, but Section-B has smashed through things, with its variety of burgers and sliders. Even the fries are said to be some of the best in town. The single dessert, banana pudding, also comes highly recommended. Head over to this space spot when you’re looking for cool, relaxed vibe and the best burger in Jeddah.
Ash Shati, @sectionb_sa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: SMPL BRGR
If you like to keep things straightforward, then SMPL BRGR is likely the thing for you. The recently opened Jeddah restaurant is said to be the first in the city to use a Japanese milk bread bun, and it’s little changes like this that have already helped define the Al Zahra venue. Same goes with the SMPL and Snobby sauces. Sometimes less is more, and SMPL BRGR showcases just that. Although, if you’ want to be a bit extra, there brand does offer a more OOO options, including Not Simple Fries and a Bacon Jam Burger.
Ahmed Al Attas, Al Zahra, @smplbrgr.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The Plan
These burgers should be a part of your regular plans. Tucked away in a corner of Atelier La Vie, this burger joint certainly isn’t hidden away from diners as patrons fill up the expansive space in search of smashed patties made with quality beef and fresh toppings. There are more inventive options in terms of burgers (beef) and chicken, and sliders, with fun names like the I See Red Slider. Top off your meal with the Mont Plan cake or The Do Not (aka doughnuts). We told you the eatery had a playful vibe.
King Abdulaziz Rd, Ash Shati, @theplan.res (53 337 4377).
Best Cafés in Jeddah
WINNER: Good Hood
What’s good in the hood? The answer is Good Hood. This is the essence of a cool neighbourhood café that you will want to come to whether you’re in the neighbourhood or not. Whether you’re coming for coffee (complete with alternative milks) or you want a full meal, the Ar Rawdah spot has you covered. Sit yourself down in one of the colorful chairs and get comfortable. You can play one of the board games or see what’s being screened. This place is as much about building a sense of community as it is playful décor and a versatile menu.
Ar Rawdah, @goodhood.sa (55 083 5166).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Aitch
A boutique and café in Bougainvillea mall, Aitch highlights how doing a few things extremely well can be more powerful than trying to showcase everything. The coffee is killer and the signature cookies and French toast rival the best bakeries and dessert shops in town. After you have your coffee and sweets, pop up to the concept store upstairs.
Al Zahra, @aitchksa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Sculpture Café
Based on the concept of creating coffee bean-based masterpieces in every cup, this popular coffee shop and showroom has attention to all details from the brews to the baked goods. The Al Andalus outpost is busy at all hours of the day and night. Patrons stay to soak up the creative vibe or the cool crowd and dine on avocado toast and French toast. Some pop in for the iced lattes while others linger with them outside. You should join.
Al Andalus, @sculpture.sa (59 038 6328).
Best Coffee in Jeddah
WINNER: Brew92
This café has become a go-to spot for many coffee aficionados in Jeddah. The Saudi-based specialty café and roastery has outposts across the Kingdom, including Jeddah. After the best coffee in Jeddah? Let’s go to Atelier La Vie. The level of detail that goes into each cup is evident from the name, which references the ideal brewing temperature. The care also continues to selecting the best 100 percent speciality-grade Arabica beans and training a team to craft a high standard of drinks each time.
Atelier La Vie, Ash Shati, @brew92cafe (54 282 6075).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Camel Step
If you cannot get enough of everything coffee, you might not want to leave Camel Step. This is the sort of relaxed spot you can enjoy an ice drip or a cappuccino with a book or spend the afternoon working away on your laptop surrounded by like-minded coffee aficionados. It’s also the place where you can buy a range of beans and coffee kit to produce a top cuppa at home. Although, you will likely want to make return trips to the speciality coffee shop.
An Nahdah, @camelstep (92 000 0689).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: ½ Million
There are many reasons to head to ½ Million. This Saudi speciality coffee shop is a household name for the best coffee in Jeddah, and equally the best coffee in Saudi. This specialty coffee chain offers a range of crowd-pleasing beverages and bites, available at all hours of the day. The food menu might evolve, the quality of coffee remains consistent, and that is what counts.
Al Khalidiyyah, @halfmillion_sa (58 148 9225).
Best Dessert in Jeddah
WINNER: Patisserie Sucré Salé
Introducing the best dessert in Jeddah. This popular Ar Rawdah dessert shop has been serving stellar sweets since the nineties. It’s tempting to choose what to get first because the pastry cases and overflowing with picture-perfect options that taste as good as they look. From classic Middle Eastern sweets, including a myriad of milk cakes, to traditional French options to gluten-free and vegan cakes, you’ve pretty much got all your bases covered here. Enjoy a slice of cake at the communal table or remember Patisserie Sucré Salé for your next big celebratory occasion.
Ar Rawdah, @sucresale_jeddah (53 000 1319).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Dots
All doughnuts are not created equal. Dots is a artisanal donut shop focused on doing one thing and doing it well, with plenty of personality. This is what makes it part of the best dessert in Jeddah list. The Jeddah Boulevard venue is suited for picking up some mini dotties while you’re on the go as much as it is to take a seat with friends and have one of the unique flavours. You’re covered with classics and as much as more creative flavours. Expect everything from mango chili lime to crème brûlée to old-fashioned doughnuts. Better make that a box order.
Jeddah Boulevard, @dots.sa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Tiny House
Tiny House is big on flavours. The spaces across the city are sizeable, too. Specialising in pancakes, waffles and crepes, this Jeddah dessert shop is a popular place for those who like to customise their treats. Pick your sweet, size then toppings. Sauces are the star here as much as the carb vehicle, with the crunchy chocolate and pistachio being crowd favourites. Then don’t forget your warm drinks.
Al Basateen, @tinyhouse.ksa (56 534 6625).
Best Grab & Go in Jeddah
WINNER: Ladan Sandwich Boutique
This isn’t a sandwich shop, but a sandwich boutique. The Ar Rawdah space is focused on elevating the humble sandwich, but without any pretention. Taking its name from the Arabic word for something with a soft texture, the eatery highlights how the bread isn’t just a mere vehicle for the filling. The concept is to showcase flavours of the world so you can expect everything from the ever-popular steak sandwich to a crispy chicken marinara to even empanadas on the menu. Ladan has cracked the code on proper sandwiches and providing an amazing option for quick eats in Jeddah.
Al Hamadaniyyah, @ladan__ksa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Adani Bar
If you’re after quick eats in Jeddah, you could head to this casual, cool cafeteria. Open from sunrise to long after sunset, the venue gives patrons plenty of time to grab sandos, shabora and of course coffee and dessert. The Ar Rawdah spot is one where if you have the time, you can pull up a blue chair and dig into an Avo Avo Sandwich, kebab plate and fried carrot cake. If you’re after something quick, you can get it to go and still be able to enjoy the medley of different cuisines and flavours in one plate. These are combinations you likely won’t find anywhere else, and they work.
Ar Rawdah, @adani.bar (54 282 6054).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Mojo Dough Box
We love bread in all varieties, especially when it is loaded with different toppings. The Mojo Dough Box carb of choice is dough, hence the name. The concept is wholly focused on effectively pizza cups or muffins that are filled with savoury and sweet toppings. It makes for some of the most moreish quick eats in Jeddah. These are ideal bites for something quick to satisfy your hunger. Yes, they do come in a box. A Mojo Brisket and a Mojo Pepperoni followed by a sweet Mojo Nutella Marshmallow will be enough to keep hunger pangs well at bay. Remember this spot for late-night snacking.
Al Zahra, @mojo_box (56 566 6937).
Best Pizza in Jeddah
WINNER: Blanca Pizzeria
After the best pizza in Jeddah? Your search ends here. Step into Blanca Pizzeria, and the first thing that will hit you is the smell wafting from the pizza oven. The second is the crowds that are coming for the perfected pizzas from a classic Margherita to the signature with truffles. Blanca Pizzeria has other noteworthy dishes, including a buzzy pizza lasagna, but it’s the pizza pies regularly coming out of the open pizza oven that have made this the go-to place for many families and groups of friends to sort out their pizza cravings.
Al Khalidiyyah, @blanca_forno.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Il Postino Pizzeria
It’s time to say ‘ciao’ to more of the best pizza in Jeddah. The Italian vibes are particularly strong at Il Postino Pizzeria in terms of its décor and from its fun postcard-style pizza boxes. But it is the venue’s dedication to authentic Neapolitan pizzas that draw diners in. The wood-fired pizzas with leopard-spotted crust highlight why the pizza from Naples is considered the best in the world. Lucky for us, we get to experience it in Jeddah without the plane ticket.
Al Khalidiyyah, @ilpostino.sa (50 365 0985).
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Pizzano
Pizzano’s Neapolitan pizzas are where it’s at when it comes to some of the best pizza in Jeddah. This new eatery has started strong with a well-edited menu of pizzas made with carefully considered ingredients from truffles to bresasola, and a popular pink sauce. We look forward to seeing this venue grow because it’s already started strong.
Ash Shati, @pizzano (54 415 9205).
GRAND PRIX
Best Restaurant in Jeddah 2023
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR WINNER: Myazu
The winner for 2023 has shown major momentum over the last three years since it came to the Red Sea city. It has been one the most talked-about eateries and one of the most widely recommended. Myazu is home-grown spot that is definitely not resting on its laurels, with its forward-thinking approach. Overall, it isn’t just one of the best in the country, but in the entire region. It is helping to define what a top restaurant experience looks like through impeccable service and perfect plates, which is why it is the best restaurant in Jeddah at the first Time Out Jeddah Restaurant Awards.
Al Basateen Mall, Ar Rawdah, @myazusaudi (92 001 0434).
