Jeddah Blog: The End of an Era

Dear Readers,

As some of you may know already, I relocated to Lahore, Pakistan with my family in July 2017. The move has been good in many ways and challenging in others. Initially, I could not bear the thought of shutting down Jeddah Blog, but as we are now settling in, with new responsibilities and roles, the inevitable seems to be making itself clear.

Thanks to my many sponsors over the years, Jeddah Blog was able to sustain itself financially, but this is no longer becoming viable. In addition, the physical distance from Jeddah is taking its toll on the content of the blog.

Its been an amazing ride, these last 10 years. I have loved every moment of setting up the blog, creating and editing its content, engaging some amazing writers and contributors, and building (and in some cases befriending) its readership, and winning many blogging awards along the way.

For now, the Jeddah Blog Facebook group will remain active as it is a great resource for newcomers and prior residents alike, but this will be my last blog post.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this unforgettable journey. Love you all.

Sabaa x

 

Jeddah Blog awarded Top 30 Saudi Arabia Blog!

I am delighted and thrilled to announce that Jeddah Blog made the Top 30 Saudi Arabia Blogs list awarded by Feedspot! Further excitement ensues to see the blog at number 16!

Thank you to Anuj at Feedspot for breaking this amazing news to me, and for giving me the following awesome, shiny badge promptly displayed on the menu to your right.

Do check out the other blogs in the list here – there are some great ones to be browsed through.

As always, thank you to my readers who continue to read and recommend Jeddah Blog to others. We have now passed the 800,000 hits mark which is awesome and now I have my sights on the 1 million milestone!

Stay safe and happy everyone!

Your Perfect Holiday Escape

It’s the end of the year and people deserve a break — that’s why so many are out on the roads or in the air this time of year. Of course, the time leading up to that vacation can be incredibly stressful. You still have all of the responsibilities of the season along with tying up loose ends before your holiday. Today’s guest post is from Henry Moore from Fit Well Traveler whose helpful tips can help you plan the perfect holiday escape while cutting down on stress and anxiety.

Picking the Perfect Vacation Destination

The right destination can make all the difference in vacation planning. Instead of wasting half of your vacation traveling halfway around the world, consider spots that are closer to your home so you can cut down on travel time. For instance, if you live in Saudi Arabia, there are amazing destinations that only take a handful of hours to get to. The urban splendor of Istanbul is a sight to behold for those who love architecture and history. The people of Oman are incredibly hospitable, making it a perfect escape for those who want a break from office politics. And Qatar is a great destination for those looking for a beach escape.

Securing Your Home

Once you’ve picked the perfect destination, you want to make sure what you leave behind is safe while you are gone. To keep your mind at ease, install a security system that monitors and records what’s happening in and around your property. If an intrusion occurs, the system should alert the appropriate authorities and dispatch them immediately. A security system is imperative during the holidays when there is a spike in burglaries and home break-ins. If you live in a compound, let your compound manager know that you will be away. It is also a good idea to switch off the water supply while you’re gone to avoid those flooding horror stories we often hear of. Some compounds require one or two air conditioners to be left on at all times to avoid mould. Find out what your compound policy is.

Another way to help mitigate the risk is to hire a house sitter while you are gone. Having somebody staying in your home reduces the chances of break-ins even when they are not there. Burglars tend to case a house for days before breaking in. If they see a car going in and out of the driveway or a person coming in and out of the front door, they move on.

Take Care of Yourself

The holiday season can trigger stress and anxiety that can affect your overall health — and illness is the last thing you need before your big vacation! While you may have a million things going on leading up to your travels, don’t forget to take time out of your days for a little exercise. Physical activity helps regulate cortisol levels and boosts your immune system. It will also help you keep off those extra pounds we tend to gain throughout the season.

Speaking of which, don’t neglect your dietary needs in favor of hoovering sweets and treats. A healthy diet includes whole grains, lean protein, fiber, and heart healthy fats. Eating well helps reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety because your body is properly fueled to help deal with whatever comes your way. While you shouldn’t deprive yourself of all holiday indulgences, keep balance in mind. For instance, if you go to a decadent dinner one night, opt for a lighter day of eating on the morrow.

***

Millions of people travel during the holiday season each year. The increase in traffic along with the stresses of the season can hinder your enjoyment if you plan on going somewhere. To help mitigate the anxiety, choose to vacation in a place that is easy to access while catering to your desires. Make sure your home is safe while you are gone with a security system and a house sitter. Finally, do not neglect your health this time of year. Exercise and proper diet will keep you healthy and ready to enjoy yourself.

Glitched Stores: A new online store to look out for!

What’s hot and trending in online shopping? A new online store – Glitched Stores has stepped into the e-commerce market offering the most dope products at reasonable prices!

Glitched Stores aim to offer unconventional product designs at very reasonable rates. Their products range from artist and series inspired clothing to phone accessories and home décor to keep your lifestyle lit!

T-shirts (33% off for White Friday!)

Celebrate your love for your favorite rock band by wearing these casual Arctic Monkeys t-shirts! Fit for any occasion as long as you keep loving the band! You can buy these shirts here.

 

Travelling through infinite realities, Rick and Morty have surely captured our attention! So let’s get schwifty in different dimensions with these casual Rick and Morty t-shirts! You can buy these shirts here.

 

Home Décor (Free shipping for White Friday!)

Wall Murals are the most unique and affordable way to add depth and dimension to your room! A tasteful, well-placed and inspirational wall mural can change your room from bland to spectacular.

Calaveras – “Todos somos Calaveras” – We all are skeletons. Underneath our manmade trappings, we all are same. Inspired from Mexican culture, these trippy calaveras (skull) wall murals are an eccentric reminder of life. (Price 55 SAR)

 

Calligraphy – Deriving its beauty from austerity, this Arabic Kufic calligraphy has a particular appeal for problem-solvers. These spiritual wall murals let you receive blessings by gazing upon them every day! (Price 60 SAR). Buy these here.

 

Mandala – A Mandala symbolizes your relation to the infinite; a world that extends both within and outside your body and mind. You can trip on these soothing wall murals anytime and also give your home a bohemian touch! (Price 55 SAR). Buy these here.

 

Yin Yang – “When people see things as beautiful, ugliness is created. When people see things as good, evil is created.” This mystical Yin Yang wall mural celebrates wholeness and is said to invoke unconscious awakening in people. (Price 55 SAR) . Buy these here.

 

iPhone Covers: (50% off for White Friday!)

Appreciate your love for doodles with these animal themed iPhone 7/8 series cases! This case will bring all the wilderness to your iPhone and style! Buy these here.

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Fell in love with a trend that has not entered the local market? Glitched Stores has an eye out for most exceptional trends in the world!

Coming soon – Socks!
In Glitched Stores, shopping for socks is not boring at all! Check out these comical socks for the free-spirited!

The biggest sale of the year is here! This White Friday, you enjoy up to 50% off and free shipping only from 22-25 Nov. So head over to the Glitched Store now before these run out of stock!

Stay woke and stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook !

 

Jeddah Photography and Exhibition Workshop

A unique photography and exhibition workshop is coming up this month in Jeddah led by internationally acclaimed photographer and producer Richard Wilding.

 

The 6 session workshop will include day and night photography sessions in Al Balad, the vibrant centre of old Jeddah. Participants will be led through the process of selecting and editing their photographs, and the procedures for organising, printing and presenting an exhibition.

Click here to register.

Fee: £ 450 or SR 2,225

Who should participate?

Participants should be aged 18+ and almost fluent in spoken English.

Participants should have a professional or semi professional SLR and a good understanding of the principles of photography.

Participants should have a Mac or PC laptop with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Bridge software.

Programme

Tuesday 14th November / 5 – 8pm

Course introduction

Richard Wilding shows his work and previous exhibitions

Technical and creative brief

Preparation of equipment

Thursday 16th November / 5.30- 8.30pm

Night photography in Al Balad

Saturday 18th November / 10am – 1pm

Editing of images from night photography

2.30 – 5.30pm

Daylight photography in Al Balad

Tuesday 21st November / 5 – 8pm

Editing of images from daylight photography

Thursday 23rd November / 5 – 8pm

Group discussion on exhibition theme and title

Selection of images for exhibition

Saturday 25th November / 10am – 1pm

Preparation of final images for printing

2.30 – 5.30pm

Printing of images commences at printers

Wednesday 29th November

Exhibition opening for participants and their friends and family

 

Richard Wilding

Richard Wilding is a London based photographer and producer working internationally with museums, charities and NGOs. He specialises in the documentation of archaeology, costume and cultural identity in the Middle East. He is a trustee of The Mansoojat Foundation, a charity formed to preserve and document the traditional costumes and heritage of Saudi Arabia.

Richard Wilding’s photography has been exhibited in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, at the Courtauld Institute of Art, London, University of Exeter, UK and the Houses of Parliament, London. He has also organised and designed exhibitions and publications in Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Italy, Spain, Belgium and the UK.

 

Instamania Bazaar

Instamania, a bazaar showcasing instapreneurs, was held on Friday, the 13th of October, from 5 pm to 11 pm. It took place at Arbab Al Heraf which is located on Yamamah Street, near Cup and Couch cafe.

Arbab Al Heraf (Master of Crafts) is a cafe/movement launched by a group of youngsters making an effort to preserve and spread the beauty of art and music in Saudi Arabia. The gallery organises music events, workshops, and other events related to showcasing artistic talents.

Vintage items by The Retro Shop

The bazaar was organised by Trendsetters. Trendsetters is an online clothing brand set up by Areeb Younus, a budding young man with a creative side.

Edibles by Rina’s Food

Brands like Glamour Beauty Jeddah, Asterix Art, Retro Shop Jeddah, Rina’s Food and more were given an opportunity to market themselves and sell their products.

Artwork by Asterix Art

Apart from that, the event featured a spellbinding show of live painting by the artist known as Asterix Art.

Joint stall of Trendsetters and Glamour Beauty Jeddah

The bazaar set up consisted of paintings, customised lettering, posters, bookmarks, abaayas, customised t-shirts, mugs and other unique items. More than fifty people from across Jeddah visited the bazaar.

Art collection from Zendisa

The aim is to host more such events in order to shine light on the hidden gems of Jeddah. Any artist or business looking to set up a booth in future events can reach out to Trendsetters, or Areeb Younus himself on Instagram.

Customised artwork by Anjali Ranjan

 

In addition to the hyperlinks above, click here to follow Daliaa Ashour and Elite Club Jeddah on Instagram.

Written by Abeer Mahadi.
Pictures courtesy Hamza Taher.

 

Jeddah Blog makes the TOP 100 Middle East Blogs

I am so honoured and excited to announce to you all that Jeddah Blog has been included in the Top 100 Middle East blogs by Feedspot.

Here is the awesome badge they have presented to JB:

Thank you all for reading, sharing, commenting on and continuing to support Jeddah Blog. Drop us a line. I love hearing from you all.

Sabaa

 

 

International Writing Competition 2017

The Seplaa Young Leaders’ believe that the pen is mightier than the sword and in this digital age, the tap of the keyboard can connect worlds and people.

Seplaa therefore want to encourage young people all over the world to use their words to connect with each other and let us see inside their worlds, to be able to learn from one another.

Theme: “What I Call Beautiful”

Sharing stories is the best way to connect.

Share your stories by applying for the Seplaa Young Leaders’ Club International Writing Competition 2017.

For more information please write to Amal Malik at contact.sylc@gmail.com.

See International Writing Competition Rules & Details for 2017 here.

Download SYLC International Writing Competition Details 2017. 

Karachi Biennale 2017

Right here in the city of Jeddah, we witnessed an art scene grow to fruition, and become a powerful part of the city’s mainstream culture. In the public arena, art has always been a part of daily life, thanks to the monumental sculptures strewn across the city. It isn’t always easy to bring art into the public realm, in regions rife with cultural and logistical challenges, but that hardship is what gives the art and the city its soul.

In another coastal city many miles east of Jeddah, where many of our international readers are from, an art biennale is bringing art back into the public arena. The venues for the Biennale are historic buildings, part of the city’s rich heritage, which get a new lease of life by being the axis of engagement for this city-wide event. The Karachi Biennale starts on the 22nd October and continues till the 5th November. We share with you the event highlights, and some striking images of the principal venues, as well as a public art project, Reel On Hai (The film is on), the likes of which we think every city in the world could use.

Karachi biennale theme: Witness 

“To witness something can be an involuntary act but to be a witness by choice alludes to participation and responsibility. Art, as a testament of its time, has always held significance, particularly in times when memory is heavily contested. Kundera, with his words ‘The struggle of man against power is the struggle of memories against forgetting’, puts the onus of creating testimonies for collective memory on eye witnesses and documenters.

The artists and art critics of our times are witness to a world brutalized by aggression and anxiety.  Their testimonies, be they personal or political, create a visual space of defiance.”

Detailed e-vite and full-day public programs to be posted on the Biennale’s website after the 15th October, 2017.

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Moving It For The Rohingya

The Rohingya people have been cruelly tormented by their home country, Myanmar. They have been fleeing Myanmar for years and live in impoverished, terrible conditions wherever they are. One tends to feel helpless when we see so much suffering far away, but now a much-awaited initiative has been launched by the Founder of Hope for Exceptional Needs and my good friend Dr. Uzma Raheem.

From the 19th September to 1st October you can now participate in a clothing drive for some of the Rohingya people settled in Hyderabad. Please drop off clothes, blankets, bedsheets, undergarments and socks at the locations mentioned below. Spread the word to your friends and your neighbours. Let’s work together to make this campaign a success!

For Jeddah Only

What you will pack in the cartons will not be clothing, it will be your Akhirah. Pack accordingly.

Clothing is the most visible and the most agonizing and obvious part of poverty. This campaign is meant to bring some relief to those Rohingyas undergoing genocide. Its also meant to bring dignity and some sense of normalcy to these poor displaced group.

“They are your brothers, give them to wear what you wear and give them to eat what you eat” Prophet Mohammed SAW

Keeping this wisdom and guidance in mind, we need to make sure of the following:

❌ No dirty, torn and unwashed clothing/undergarment/lingerie
❌No buttons missing please
❌No soleless and damaged shoes or shoes with heels
❌No brassiere with missing hooks and straps

♥️We appreciate and thank everyone who can wash and iron what they give. Let us give with respect and dignity.

The miracle of this life is that when we heal a vulnerable and fragile soul, our own soul heals.

Let us heal together.

📍NOTE-
collection drop off points only for material items. For funds please contact the assigned persons listed for the Khak e Taiba Trust.

Top 10 Places to Eat and Drink in Dubai

Dubai is a foodie’s haven where you could try a different place for every meal for more than a year and still not go back to the same place. We Jeddawis love to find an excuse to visit Dubai, and in this piece, Jeddah Blog’s resident foodie Abdullah Yahya has short-listed 10 such excuses for 10 places for every time of the day that are simply not to be missed the next time you are in Dubai.

Breakfast

This is the most important meal of the day and Dubai has plenty to offer in this department. Here are two of the best:

The Coffee Club

With a few branches spread around Dubai, the menu of The Coffee Club is varied and extensive, but it is my favorite pick for breakfast because it’s one of the best. Try the poached eggs with avocado, and close your meal with Apple Crumble tart, with a cup of good old-fashioned black coffee.

Perfectly poached eggs.

Locations: different location: Wasl Vita Mall, Times Square Centre, and The Palm Jumeirah.

Little More

The sibling of More Café has three different branches in Dubai, but I strongly suggest you visit the one in Marina Mall. Sure, it’s hot now in Dubai, but the trick is, they have an airconditioned outdoorsy area that’s overlooking the Dubai Marina, so you get the view without the discomfort. Their Full English Breakfast is hearty and their Healthy Breakfast is guilt-free, but whatever you choose, I think you will be happy. While you’re there try their signature Red Espresso® Cappuccino made of rooibos tea which has 0 caffeine.

Full English or Healthy Breakfast with this view?

Location: Marina Mall, Business Central Tower, and  DAFZA Building.

 

Specialty Coffee

Stomping Grounds

Located in a villa in the posh Jumeirah District, this place serves amazing coffee, and excellent food as well. You can trust the barista with a coffee recommendation, and he will even suggest other coffee places in Dubai. Now that is confidence!

Try this for a pick-me-up.

Location: Villa #98, 12D Street (Corner 51 St), 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

 

Café Rider Custom

A themed specialty coffeeshop, Café Rider Custom is a motorbike warehouse/ workshop/ showroom/ café. It has the coolest vibes, but that is not the only reason to visit. Do yourself a favour and try the flat white and the tiramisu. The location is in an industrial warehouse area very close to Mall of Emirates just off Umm Suqeim Rd.

Cool vibes and coffee.

Location:  Warehouse 7, 14C Umm Suqeim Road, Dubai – United Arab Emirates.

 

Indian

There is no shortage of Indian restaurants in Dubai, from the cheapest to the finest. It’s almost as if Indian subcontinent food is the official cuisine of Dubai. To narrow it down to one restaurant is just a fool’s errand, which I am gladly tackling.

Curry Culture

Curry Culture for me is a hidden gem tucked outside the China Court in Ibn Battuta Mall near Jabal Ali. Their curries are delicious and moderately priced, and their dosa is fantastic and comes in different varieties.

The Curry Culture Dosa

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Location: China Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Mina Jebel Ali – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Ethnic Food

Tribes (African)

If you want to try African cuisine, then Tribes is where you should be heading. A bit pricey, but it’s colourful and cheerful with amazing ambience, and has the most convenient location in two of Dubai’s biggest malls. Try their Lamb Spring Roll, they are seriously, devilishly good, and don’t be afraid to try the Oxtail. It might seem exotic, but trust me when I say it is not to be missed.

Devilishly good lamb spring rolls.

Locations: The Mall of Emirates, and The Dubai Mall.

Ting Irie (Jamaican)

Just as I thought restaurants couldn’t get cooler than Tribes, I tried Ting Irie, the Jamaican Restaurant in Downtown Dubai, and I was blown away. The service is so friendly and inviting, and the food is so delicious and different from anything you’ve experienced. Don’t miss the Beef Patties which are just mouthwatering. We tried to ask for the recipe, but the chef wouldn’t tell us. Spitfiyah Jerk Chicken is another excellent dish not to be missed. The restaurant is expensive, but it is worth every penny.

The decor and food is modern and bold.

Locations: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Souk Al Manzil, Downtown – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

 

Rosa Mexicano (Mexican)

Unlike Jeddah, Dubai has many Mexican restaurants to choose from. My pick is Rosa Mexicana which has two branches in Dubai. It’s reasonably priced, and their guacamole made fresh at your table is not to be missed. Do try their hard-shells taco trio also.

Go Mexican.

Locations: The Dubai Mall and Mirdif City Centre.

Afternoon Tea

TWG Teahouse

If you are particular about your tea, then you might spend a long time at TWG making a selection from their very extensive tea menu. It has a few hundreds kinds of tea. Our favorites are the Silver Moon Tea and the Royal Moroccan. And their Crème Brûlée is seriously awesome.

A relaxing cuppa at TWG

Locations: The Dubai Mall and Festival City Mall

 

The Dinner and Movie Experience

Theatre by Rhodes at Vox Cinemas

If you love movies and food, then you can have the two in one. Theatre by Rhodes has a menu created by Michelin star chef Gary Rhodes. You will experience films in a luxurious way like you have never seen before. Food will be served to you in your seat of comfort one course after another, and don’t worry about the mess of eating in the dark, as all the food can be easily picked by hand.

A theatre experience like no other.

Locations: Vox Cinemas, Mall of Emirates.

Paperless Post Review

Paperless Post is an online stationery company with a difference. Not only are the designs beautiful and elegant, but they are eco-friendly convenient too. I was super-excited to get a message from them and be asked to explore their website.

If you’re anything like me, then your family and friends will be scattered all over the world. Now whether you want to send them birthday cards, Eid cards, save-the-dates or wedding cards, Paperless Post makes the experience so much easier. But more on that later.

First, let’s take a peek at some of the cute-as-a-button cards they have on offer.

Baby shower…

Belated birthday…

Iftar party…

 

 

Eid Mubarak…

Save-the-Dates…

The sheer number of beautiful designs are breathtaking and I guarantee you’ll be be wasting a lot of your precious time just browsing through them all.

The best part when it comes to invites? Once your guests receive a little envelope in their email inbox, they click on it to reveal the card and can also RSVP there and then!

Go ahead and customise your card. Most cards are free, and some come at a fee. If you want to send printed invitations, you have the option for doing that too – they have truly thought of everything.

Give them a try. Go Paperless today.

 

Elegant Fine Dining at Le Traiteur

Ramadan is a time of spirituality, self-control and self-reflection. Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset choosing to spend the holy month mostly with family and close friends. Iftar is the evening meal, the breaking of the fast that becomes a special occasion every day. Whether we choose to dine at home, or savour the meal outside, it becomes more than simply a meal and takes on a higher meaning.

When it comes to dining out at Iftar time, Jeddawis are positively spoilt for choice. Food courts and malls become packed and popular restaurants reach their peak. However, what about those restaurants tucked away from mainstream? Those elegant venues not openly advertised, but the quality of their food and service is whispered about in closed circles?

In our latest blog post, Jeddah Blog’s extreme foodie Abdullah Yahya spills the beans on one of the hidden gems of Jeddah’s food scene, French restaurant Le Traiteur. After reading this review, you’ll be sure to want to experience the elegance, quality and personal touch of this fine dining restaurant.

Do you know of any hidden gems that you would recommend? Secret restaurants that only a select few know about? Let us know in the comments below.

I don’t know about you, but in Ramadan I try to avoid going to open-buffet restaurants for Iftar. They are usually overcrowded, way overpriced, and they induce overeating. I know many foodies like myself who are hesitant to dine out in Ramadan because of that. That is why if you are anything like me, you should consider visiting Le Traiteur. Tucked away in a beautiful small villa in a residential area in Ash-Shati Dist., Le Traiteur is a hidden gem that not many know or talk about.

Approaching Le Traiteur

It’s a fine dining French restaurant that I can only describe as simply elegant. The restaurant is small and intimate, it has perhaps 10 – 15 tables at most, and when you enter from the main door, you feel you have been transferred to a French ballroom.

Beautifully classic French decor

I have dined at Le Traiteur several times during the years, but I have not been there for what seems like forever, which is something the restaurant manager noticed as he greeted us at the door, saying ruefully: “Mr. Abdullah, it’s nice to see you again, even though we only see you in Ramadan lately”. It struck me that he is absolutely right. I should be visiting more during the year, because even though I enjoy dining there in Ramadan, just like many restaurants in the city, they swap their regular menu in favour of a more Ramadan themed one, which in not necessarily in keeping with the restaurant cuisine.

Tastefully decorated tables

As we sat at the table minutes before the Maghrib (sunset) calling for prayer. I was busy admiring the elegant surroundings, from the classic furniture and wallpaper, glass displays of China and glassware, elegant table cloths and silverware, to the napkins that were folded to resemble the restaurant emblem. The dim lighting gives you an intimate candle-lit feeling that enhances the experience, and just shortly after the prayer ended, they began to play some classic music in the background that added majesty to the whole ambience.

The service was ever-friendly and attentive, and our waiter took extra care of my 15 month old child and made her feel welcome too.

The Arabic appetizers.

As soon as it was time to break our fast, dates, water, laban (buttermilk), and Arabic coffee was served, with pita and French bread, and a plate of Arabic appetizers. The appetizers consisted of a variety of cheese samosa, beef samosa, kibbeh, and spring rolls. I enjoyed the samosas, and I thought the kibbeh tasted good, but was too brittle and fell apart in the plate.

The soup table: Creamy Seafood and Lentil

Then it was time to head to the buffet and choose a soup. There was a choice between creamy seafood soup and lentil soup, and we opted for the seafood soup, which did not disappoint; it was hearty and warm, but was not heavy. I took a glance at the foul jar next to the soups pots, but then I decided against it, as I needed to be more selective.Next was time to visit the salad bar, and there were more than enough items to keep us happy for the next portion of our meal, and they tasted good as well.

Great variety at the salad bar.

Our waiter then asked us to choose our main course. Every day there are three dishes to choose from, and on this particular day the choices were between Beef Picatta, Chicken Cordon Blue, and Fish & Chips. We opted for the chicken and the beef and neither disappointed, especially the chicken, which was fantastic. I liked the beef too, but by the time I swapped plates with my wife, it was a little cold, but the rice was excellent and I wished I had room in my stomach to finish the plate.

Beef Picatta

Finally, we got round to dessert, and they were no dearth of choices, as the dessert buffet was full of many choice sweets, whether Arabic or Western.

Desserts galore.

There were also many fresh cuts of fruits, and even a chocolate fountain. I especially liked cheesecake and mahlabia (rice pudding) with pistachio and flower essence, and my wife was smitten by the chocolate pudding.

The Chocolate Fountain

Overall, we were very satisfied with our experience in Le Traiteur. It is a place for one who wants to savour one’s meal slowly in a sophisticated ambience. The price is 150 SR pp, which is moderate if you compare it to similar iftars in similar restaurants in Jeddah.

The choices are not very wide making you feel the need to binge, but they are varied enough that you feel satisfied. So, if you want to escape the crowds and have a pleasant experience away from the hustle and bustle of Ramadan buffet in five star hotels, here is your chance. However, if you’re still not convinced that you need to go out in Ramadan, I understand, just make sure to visit the restaurant after the holy month for the same elegant treatment only with proper French cuisine. Note to self: “Practice what you preach, and make sure to visit the restaurant yourself after Ramadan”.

Hospitality 9/10

Ambience 9/10

Soups, salads, and appetizers 9/10

Main dishes 8/10

Dessert 8/10

Value for money 8/10

Address: Abu Al Abbas Ibn Abdulmutalib, Ash Shati, Jeddah 23513, Saudi Arabia

Phone: +966 12 605 5111

Ramadan Offer: Win a Free Subscription with OSN!

We are super-excited to share this awesome giveaway with our very special Jeddah Blog readers.

Hold your breath and read on…

Have you ever wanted to have the freedom to watch what you like, when you like via 150 television channels?

OSN, the region’s leading entertainment network, is offering its customers the opportunity to enjoy 27 unmissable series for the whole family this Holy Month of Ramadan.

Click on the link below for a chance to WIN a 6 month subscription package with OSN, the Middle East’s leading entertainment network, in Ramadan.

Click here to enter the OSN

Competition

OSN’s new GeitItAll™ bundle offers ultimate access to all the best premium, not-to-miss Ramadan series, through OSN’s Plus HD Box that allows subscribers to record, pause and rewind live TV.

OSN’s extensive Ramadan line-up is also available on OSN Play and On Demand and will see the hugely popular Ottoman epic drama series Kösem Sultan, exclusive to OSN, starring award-winning actress, Nurgül Yesilçay.

Egyptian drama on OSN Ya Hala Al Oula HD also features an unbeatable line-up of talent that includes Karim Abdel Aziz in Al Zaybak; Ghada Abdel Razik in Ard Jaw and Donia Sameer Ghanem in Fi El Lala Land. Hayat Al-Fahd performs in gripping Gulf drama Rummana.

Showing on OSN’s Alfa package will be a collection of fantastic Ramadan series. The line-up includes El Hisab Yigma’a starring Yousra and Khalsana Be Shaiaka starring Ahmed Mekky. A glittering line up of stars come together in Li Aala Sie’r featuring Nelly Karim, Ahmed Fahmy and Zeina, while Amr Saad and Reham Hagag are the leading duo in Wada’ Amni. Not to be missed is Halawt El Donia starring Hind Sabry and Dafer Abdeen and Harbana Minha with Yasmine Abd El Aziz.

For the ART series, fans can catch Taim Hassan in Al Haiba as well as Qanadeel Al Oshaq featuring the ever glamorous Cyrine Abdel Nour and La Totfi Al Shams with the popular Amina Khalil.

With OSN Series Link, viewers can take control of their entertainment, ensuring they never miss a moment – recording the entire series in just two simple steps. For more information, visit:  GetItAll™ Bundle and OSN Play.

Tea and Falafel

If there’s anyone in this city who has their finger on the collective Jeddawi pulse, it’s Jeddah Blog’s Abdullah Yahya. Whether it’s honest advice on the best coffee shops  or the latest restaurant openings and dining options this is the one person you want among your handy Whatsapp contacts.

For this blog post, Abdullah has been on the hunt for a speciality breakfast hangout and he chanced upon the charmingly named Tea & Falafel on Madina Road. Scroll down to read Abdullah’s review, see what he ordered and find out how much he awarded the outlet in the all-important Jeddah Blog rating.

Breakfast is not only the most important meal of the day, but many agree that it is indeed their favorite meal of the day. As Jeddawis, in the past we only had limited options for breakfast places, but this has been changing quickly in recent years.

If social media is any indication, breakfast joints are all the rage, and of all the times we eat out, the longest we wait for an empty table is usually when we go out for breakfast.

Rustic and homely at the same time

One of the latest places to open in Jeddah is Tea & Falafel which is located on Madinah Branch Road (address: 6614 Abi Haitham Al Ansari, Al Muhammadiyah District, Al Muhammadiyah District,, Jeddah 23624). Although it is still in its soft opening phase, it is very popular already.

The tastefully decorated single’s section

It has a single section downstairs and a family section upstairs. It’s not a large restaurant and there are less than 10 tables in the family section, and maybe as many in the singles section. It is nicely decorated and brightly coloured with upbeat quotes. My favourite is their take on BFF as “Best Falafel Forever”

The spice bar

Part tea shop, part restaurant, it serves Arabic food with an emphasis on falafel. You can indulge in all of your falafel fantasies here with creations such as falafel nachos, falafel waffles, manakeesh with falafel, etc.

We loved the bright sunlight pouring in.

Since it was our first time, we played it safe and ordered an Arabic breakfast plate (40SR) which came with samplers of Arabic traditional biggest hits (hummus, falafel, foul,  manakeesh, hummus, foul, labneh, tahini, makdous, jam, potato wedges, pickles, and pita bread). It comes with a pot of English breakfast tea but we replaced that with Karak tea.

I also ordered fresh orange juice (SR14 ), falafel stuffed with nuts (serving of two pieces, SR6), and zaatar mankeesh (SR8)

Za’atar Mankeesh

Karak Tea

Arabic breakfast sampler

Everything we tried was good, but the falafel, we thought, were exceptional. They were not too greasy and they tasted pretty good especially the falafel stuffed with nuts. I also liked the Karak tea.

Next time inshaAllah we will be trying other items on the menu, and you can bet there will be a next time, because not only did we like the food, but the service was good, the ambience was cool, and the prices were excellent. We ended up paying SR68 for 2 persons. Great value for money.

Jeddah Blog rating:

Ambience 8/10

Service 8/10

Food 9/10

Value 9/10

Overall rating 8.5/10

-photo credits: Abdullah Yahya