Where We Are Going Today: A-to-P sandwich shop in Alkhobar

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Updated 18 min 19 sec ago

Where We Are Going Today: A-to-P sandwich shop in Alkhobar

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  • The menu focuses on all-day sandwiches and drinks that balance flavor and presentation

Tucked in Alkhobar’s lineup of minimalist, design-focused cafes, A-to-P (short for A.M. to P.M.) offers a comfortable mix of style and simplicity.

The atmosphere is sleek and bright, with a gray terrazzo counter, soft lighting, and clean lines. Whether you are stopping for breakfast or working for a few hours, the space feels well arranged for both.

The menu focuses on all-day sandwiches and drinks that balance flavor and presentation. I tried the burrata sandwich, now one of their popular items. It includes burrata, confit tomato, pesto, and a touch of balsamic — a good mix of richness and acidity. The bread is crisp but not dry, adding texture without overpowering the filling. It is a straightforward sandwich that delivers on taste.

The peach smoothie was another good choice — light, foamy, and naturally sweet. It complemented the food well and was refreshing in the warm weather.

Prices are moderate, slightly on the higher side but fair for the quality and setting. Parking can be difficult during busy hours, but the calm interior makes up for it.

In a city full of cafes, A-to-P stands out for its simple design and balanced flavors. It aims to make your day easier, from morning to evening. Find them on Instagram @atop.sa.


Brand behind viral Dubai chocolate set for Harrods pop-up in London

Brand behind viral Dubai chocolate set for Harrods pop-up in London
Updated 13 October 2025

Brand behind viral Dubai chocolate set for Harrods pop-up in London

Brand behind viral Dubai chocolate set for Harrods pop-up in London

DUBAI: After taking international social media by storm with its Dubai chocolate, Fix Dessert Chocolatier is set to host a pop-up at luxury London department store Harrods, marking its first foray outside the UAE.

The pop-up from Oct. 27 to Nov. 23 will feature signature FIX offerings, including the viral “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” bar which envelops knafeh and pistachio in chocolate.

Sarah Hamouda, co-founder at FIX Dessert Chocolate, said recently: “This is such a full-circle moment. FIX has always been about blending cultures; in this instance, my London upbringing and Egyptian roots with Dubai’s unstoppable energy.”

The UAE-based brand behind “The Original Dubai Chocolate,” was co-founded by Hamouda and Yezen Alani in 2021.

It first went viral for their signature “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” bar, with major brands including Lindt and Galaxy developing their own versions inspired by the popular treat.


Where We Are Going Today: Ginger leaf restaurant in Jeddah

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Updated 11 October 2025

Where We Are Going Today: Ginger leaf restaurant in Jeddah

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  • The murgh shorba stands out among the soups for its comforting, flavorful broth

Ginger Leaf, located on Al-Kurnaysh Road inside Jeddah Hilton, offers a memorable Indian dining experience in the coastal city.

The restaurant’s ambiance immediately transports diners to India; from the intricate chandeliers to the ceiling adorned with traditional fabrics and patterns, every detail reflects a strong South Asian influence that feels both warm and regal. However, the seating arrangement feels a bit cramped with tables placed close to each other.

As a complimentary starter, guests are served crispy papad accompanied by yogurt chutney, tamarind chutney, achaar, and apricot chutney.

The menu — while on the pricier side — is extensive, offering a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options inspired by the country's diverse regions.

The murgh shorba stands out among the soups for its comforting, flavorful broth. From the starters, the chicken 65 and achari paneer tikka are crowd favorites for being spicy, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.

The chef’s kebab platter, featuring Kandhari murgh tikka, sarson jhinga, and khaas seekh kebab, is a must-try for those who enjoy grilled dishes, while the lamb chops are tender and full of flavor.

For the main course, dishes like mutton rogan josh, Lucknowi nihari, and the rich butter chicken stand out for their authentic preparation, with the latter capturing the true North Indian taste such as creamy without being overly sweet.

Seafood lovers can explore the Kerala seafood curry or kadai jhinga, while vegetarians will find comfort in dal fry and palak paneer, best enjoyed with buttery naan. It was delightful to discover that their chicken and meat biryani tastes just like the ones served back in India.

End the meal on a sweet note with gulab jamun, ras malai ghewar or kesari phirni, both light yet indulgent. Pair the meal with a salty or sweet lassi for a traditional touch.

For more details visit @gingerleaff_ on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Fermento – Italian cuisine in Jeddah

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Updated 10 October 2025

Where We Are Going Today: Fermento – Italian cuisine in Jeddah

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  • Seafood lovers will appreciate the salmone crudo, cured salmon with ceviche-style marinade served alongside crispy rice crackers

Fermento, located on King Abdul Aziz Road in Al-Shati area, brings a genuine slice of Italy to Jeddah, offering diners an experience that goes beyond just food. The ambiance captures a classic Italian vibe, with warm lighting, rustic touches, and a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel as if you have stepped straight into a trattoria in Rome.

The menu at Fermento is a celebration of Italian cuisine, starting with a variety of appetizers that impress both in presentation and flavor. Crostini classico, topped with cherry tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, and basil, is simple yet vibrant, while crostini burrata elevates the experience with creamy cheese, olive oil, and fresh herbs.

Seafood lovers will appreciate the salmone crudo, cured salmon with ceviche-style marinade served alongside crispy rice crackers. Meat appetizers such as carpaccio di manzo classico and beef tartare highlight the restaurant’s attention to quality, using tender cuts and balanced seasonings.

Salads like the burrata salad combine fresh ingredients with creative touches, including pistachios and a balsamic pomegranate glaze. Pasta dishes range from the classic spaghetti al frutti di mare, brimming with shrimp, scallops, calamari, and mussels, to risotto caprese, creamy with tomato and topped with burrata.

Gnocchi al pecorino and rigatoni al salmone affumicato offer hearty, flavorful options for cheese and seafood lovers alike.

Pizzas at Fermento, such as the Chef Ricci pizza speciale and pizza bianca al salmone, are generously topped, while mains like grilled tagliata di manzo, spicy lamb chops, and grilled filetto di salmone showcase skillful preparation and robust flavors. Oven-roasted vegetables and rosemary potatoes make for comforting sides.

Mocktails are usually recommended by the waiters as a speciality, include options like the Passion Italiana and Yuzu Spritz, which are refreshing though some flavors can be slightly overpowering. End your meal with their authentic Italian dessert, the affogato.

The only drawbacks are the slightly high prices, with a meal for two typically ranging between SR300 ($79.98) and SR400. For more informaton visit @fermento.ksa.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Asyakh of Bahrain

Where We Are Going Today: Asyakh of Bahrain
Updated 10 October 2025

Where We Are Going Today: Asyakh of Bahrain

Where We Are Going Today: Asyakh of Bahrain

Asyakh, a newly opened Bahraini restaurant, has quickly become the talk of the town, drawing crowds for its perfectly grilled meats and authentic Gulf flavors.

While the ambiance is quite standard with simple decor, comfortable seating and the feel of any fine-dining restaurant, it’s the food that truly sets this place apart.

The menu showcases a variety of classic Bahraini and Gulf-inspired dishes, beginning with appetizers such as hummus, fattoula (a refreshing mix of greens and crispy bread), jarjeer salad (arugula salad), and hummus ma’bous, a spicy twist on the traditional dip.

The grill section is where the restaurant shines, offering flavorful Bahraini tikkas, chicken wings, chicken tikka, yogurt-marinated tikka and several kinds of kebabs, including Kabab Al-Aam Mahmoud, spicy kebab and date molasses kebab.

The grilled chicken, lamb chops, beef pesto strips and barbecue shashlik all arrive hot and juicy, served with soft, freshly baked bread and fragrant saffron rice.

One standout dish is the goat yogurt with date molasses, a surprisingly rich and tangy pairing that reflects the restaurant’s Bahraini roots. The spicy Bahraini ma’bous dip also deserves mention for those who love a flaming kick.

However, despite the food’s excellence, the restaurant’s growing popularity has led to long waiting times, especially during weekends. Making a reservation through the link on their Instagram page is highly recommended to avoid the crowds. Service can feel a bit slow when the restaurant is full, but the staff remain attentive and welcoming once seated.

Overall, Asyakhs blend rich marinades and smoky aromas with a casual yet inviting dining experience. For more details, visit @asyakh.ksa.
 

 

 

 

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh
Updated 07 October 2025

Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh
  • The waiter recommended I try the Jordanian mansaf, maqluba, or the grape leaves with moza — the most popular items on the menu

If you plan to dine at Al-Kofeia, be sure to take the bus or Uber — finding a parking space at this restaurant can be challenging, especially on weekends or during busy periods.

Located in the heart of Al-Tahlia Street, the restaurant serves mainly Palestinian cuisine, as well as a few other Middle Eastern dishes, including Jordanian mansaf and Saudi kabsa.

When I entered, I immediately noticed the decor. Although the Palestinian identity is clearly evident, the interior seems a bit cluttered, with random pieces of art, quotes, and signs.

Although the Palestinian identity is clearly evident at this location through the decorations hanging from the ceiling, for example, the interior seems forced and cluttered with random pieces, such as paintings, quotes, and signs. (AN photo by Haifa Alshammari)

The waiter recommended I try the Jordanian mansaf, maqluba, or the grape leaves with moza — the most popular items on the menu. 

It was my first taste of mansaf, and I had to take a sip of water with almost every mouthful. The spices were perfectly measured, but the dish was salty, mushy overall, and lacked texture.

The grape leaves, however, were delicious and well-cooked.

Considering the presentation and range of ingredients, many of the items on the menu were quite expensive. For example, the mansaf cost SR76 ($20), much higher than usual rates.

A pleasant surprise was the availability of a prayer room and a breastfeeding room for women, which shows consideration for customers. Al-Kofeia clearly welcomes all family members.