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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah

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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Abu Melhem’ – Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah
  • Hot appetizers such as fried potato cubes and arayess sandwiches are crisp and flavorful, especially the beef arayess, which is generously stuffed

Located on Prince Sultan Road in Jeddah, Abu Melhem is a Lebanese restaurant known for delivering traditional flavors in a casual setting.

The warm, inviting decor sets a welcoming tone, hinting at the comfort food that awaits. The seating area is modest, and the restaurant is often preferred for take-away rather than dine-in.

Abu Melhem’s extensive menu includes cold and hot appetizers, grills, sandwiches, shawarma, and manakeesh.

The cold mezze — tabbouleh, fattoush, hummus, and mutabbal — arrive fresh and well-seasoned, though some grape leaves are slightly under-marinated.

Hot appetizers such as fried potato cubes and arayess sandwiches are crisp and flavorful, especially the beef arayess, which is generously stuffed.

Sandwiches and shawarma dominate the mains, with options ranging from chicken and beef kabab to Angus beef shawarma. The chicken shawarma platter features tender meat with a well-balanced garlic sauce, while the tawouk makloubeh offers a hearty, layered option.

On the grill, the mixed grill platter is a highlight, featuring perfectly cooked kabab chicken, beef, and succulent lamb.

Manakeesh is another strong point, with fresh dough and toppings that appeal to both traditional and cheese lovers.

Overall, Abu Melhem delivers a broad taste of Middle Eastern flavors. While a few dishes could use more consistent seasoning, generous portions make it a worthwhile stop.

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Where We Are Going Today: Le Journal Bakery and Cafe in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Le Journal Bakery and Cafe in Riyadh
Updated 14 November 2025

Where We Are Going Today: Le Journal Bakery and Cafe in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Le Journal Bakery and Cafe in Riyadh
  • A pesto sandwich with lavender lemonade was one of our choices

Opened three weeks ago, and situated between the Al-Narjis and Al-Aarid neighborhoods in Riyadh, Le Journal Bakery and Cafe offers French flavors in the heart of ºÚÁÏÉçÇø.

After years of living in France, the owner of the bakery returned to ºÚÁÏÉçÇø to bring a bit of the French atmosphere to Riyadh. These French touches are seen throughout the establishment.

The background music is enticing, and the white walls, along with the overall aesthetic, show that the interior designer paid attention to details.

However, the space is small and the tables close to each other, which might make you feel uncomfortable.

There are various food options, though. Sandwiches are on offer and the bread is freshly baked.

A pesto sandwich with lavender lemonade was one of our choices. The bread and cheese were tasty, but combining them with pesto, large pieces of lettuce, and a large amount of olive oil was not the best idea. The sandwich proved too oily and rather hard to chew.

The lemonade was also below par as it was a bit sweet for my taste.

The meal cost SR52 (almost $14), and although it could have been tastier, Le Journal Bakery and Cafe was a pleasant place to visit.