< Previous10 Winter 2024 timeoutjeddah.com Fresh feasts to try now SULTANI RESTAURANT An authentic Persian experience This new spot features elegant décor with modern touches to create a warm and comfortable environment. We can’t forget about the food. The extensive menu is filled with grills, seafood and tempting desserts. O Open daily 5pm-11 pm. As Salamah @sultani.ksa (050 518 8282). LABASH Fill up on Egyptian dishes You better be hungry when you head over to Labash. Grills, burgers, fried chicken, fries and more comforting dishes are given an Egyptian twist here. All food is literally dumped onto your table for your crew to share – or fight over. O Open Sat-Wed 1pm-1am, Thu-Fri 1pm-2am. As Salamah, @labash.ksa (054 369 0990). Head to this cat-centric café UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY AT ARTY CAFÉ Make a masterpiece Get ready to totally kiln it (get it?) at Arty Café. The Al Zahra studio-meets-café offers painting and pottery, along with specialty coffee and matcha. Settle into a paint- stained chair and shape clay or put the finishing strokes on your latest artwork. Whatever type of art you want to create, Arty Café is the relaxing place to do it. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-11pm, Thu 10am-midnight, Fri 4.30pm- midnight. Al Zahra, @arty.cafe. EMBRACE THE SEASON AT THE TAKWA WINTER EVENT Gather your group Are you looking for a fun family-friendly winter experience? The Takwa Winter Event is your seasonal spot. Launching for the first time in December, head over for unique activities, live shows and various events suitable for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of action games or learning about different cultures, you’re covered at this festival. O Dec 26-Jan 11. Emaar Mall, Emaar Square, @takwwa.sa. Check out the Saudi Feast Food Listen up, foodies. You won’t want to miss the Saudi Feast Food Festival. The event, brought to us by the Culinary Arts Commission, is a celebration of incredible dishes and restaurants from all regions of Saudi. There are a variety of experience, like workshops from professional chefs, a tasting corner and live performances. O From SAR35. Until Fri Dec 6. Al Basateen, webook.com. There’s a purrrrrfect new spot for breakfast in Jeddah. Make your way over to Ar Rawdah to the Lazy Cat pop-up. The chic space has plenty to pick from whether you’re a sweet or salty breakfast person. Do not skip the soufflé pancakes paired with a signature blue matcha. O Open daily 7am-4pm. Ar Rawdah, @eatlazycat. TOJ_EN009_8_10_THINGS TO DO_13431082.indd 10TOJ_EN009_8_10_THINGS TO DO_13431082.indd 1030/11/2024 21:1930/11/2024 21:19Untitled-1 1Untitled-1 131/07/2022 17:31:5431/07/2022 17:31:54OUTDOOR DINING 12 Winter 2024 timeoutjeddah.com Dine out Dine out TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 12TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1202/12/2024 13:0602/12/2024 13:06OUTDOOR DINING timeoutjeddah.com Winter 2024 13 It’s terrace time again. Head out to these top al fresco spots. By Mohammed Mirza Ahmed Kaia W inter in Jeddah is truly one- of-a-kind. The weather is pleasantly mild, with gentle breezes and just enough rain to keep things fresh – no need for jackets or scarves here. After months of sweltering heat, it’s the perfect time to put down those online food orders and enjoy the outdoors. Al fresco dining spots become the hottest destinations in town, buzzing with life and flavour. If you’re searching for the best places to soak up the season, you’re in luck. From stunning venues with breathtaking views of the Red Sea to cosy eateries serving up comforting dishes, here’s your ultimate guide to Jeddah’s top al fresco experiences. BLACK POTION Ar Rawdah is home to some of Jeddah’s best cafés, and Black Potion is definitely one to check out when you’re after a bustling patio vibe. While the outdoor seating fills up quickly – especially on weekends – the charming, intimate atmosphere makes it an inviting spot to relax. The real stars here are the waffle fingers, which pair perfectly with the smooth coffee brews. If you’re a coffee-lover, this café is a must-visit. O Ar Rawdah, @blackpotion.coffee (056 882 0420). GATHER U Walk is one of the hottest places in town, and the eateries here, especially the ones with outdoor seating, are the city’s new fave hangout spots. A standout spot is Gather, which doubles up as a social hub, where people gather to eat, chat and connect. The menu is surprisingly extensive, with a decent selection of vegan options too. O U Walk, Al Zahra, @gatherksa / gatherksa.com (055 633 6839). GREEN MOUNTAIN Perched atop a hill on the city’s outskirts, Green Mountain is not your average restaurant where you just have dinner and leave. Think of it like a retreat where you find a comfy spot to sit on the Arabian majlis, order a finjan of Arabic coffee, take in incredible vistas of the city and feel the calming Jeddah winter breeze. You won’t mind waiting one bit for Green Mountain’s haneeth. It’s slow- cooked to perfection. If you haven’t had TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 13TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1302/12/2024 13:0602/12/2024 13:06OUTDOOR DINING 14 Winter 2024 timeoutjeddah.com Siddharta Lounge TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 14TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1430/11/2024 21:2130/11/2024 21:21OUTDOOR DINING timeoutjeddah.com Winter 2024 15 Khosh Hal elevates the flavours of Pakistani street food with finesse, and the results are absolutely drool-worthy. The grills here deserve a special mention. We recommend you order the mix waleema to sample a spread of the famed grilled meats. Since the restaurant is all about Pakistani fusion cuisine, it has some delectable dishes on the menu like moza biryani, which you won’t find anywhere else in the city. Dig into it while enjoying the lively ambience. O Prince Sultan Rd., As Salamah, @khoshhal_ restaurantfusion (054 969 5964). LOCALS Nestled in one of the quieter corners of Al Andalus, this café is the perfect escape for those seeking a relaxed outdoor vibe. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home as you sip your drink. Matcha-lovers, rejoice. Locals has jumped on the trend, and the brand’s version is delicious. But that’s not all, this popular café also serves up some fantastic sandwiches alongside great coffee. It’s a unique spot where you can indulge in comfort food and embrace café culture in an inviting atmosphere. O Al Andalus, @locals_cafe.sa (054 512 1031). NAFOURA Tucked away in the luxe Park Hyatt Jeddah, the outdoor terrace at Nafoura offers what’s arguably the best view of King Fahd Fountain haneeth before, to say you’re missing out would be an understatement. It’s a perfect winter warmer made with spiced slow-roasted lamb and typically served with rice. O Al Hamdaniyyah, @greenmountainrest1 (050 002 8923). KAIA Kaia is a seasonal open-air lounge that’s a feast for the senses. Best of all, it has just reopened for the cooler weather. The swanky spot on the seventh floor of the Shangri-La Jeddah brings together stunning views of the Jeddah Corniche, great music courtesy of a super-cool in- house DJ and a fusion menu that’s inspired by the flavours of the Pacific Rim. The menu, by the way, is curated by Lima-born chef Bruno Santa Cruz, who’s made the spot stand out on Jeddah’s food map, with every dish an exploration of bold and tantalising flavours. Oh, and the mocktails here are inventive and refreshing, with uncanny ingredient pairings. Come hungry. O Shangri-La Jeddah, Burj Assila, Ash Shati, @kaia.jeddah / kaiajeddah.com (012 696 8888). KHOSH HAL FUSION This upscale Pakistani restaurant has a large al fresco dining area and promises a full-on- flavour adventure you won’t want to miss. It’s shaded too, so it’s perfect for midday lunches. Green Mountain “This is not your average restaurant where you just have dinner and leave. Think of it like a retreat” TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 15TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1530/11/2024 21:2230/11/2024 21:22OUTDOOR DINING 16 Winter 2024 timeoutjeddah.com in the city. That’s saying something. Try and time your visit for when the fountain lights up – it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. But it’s not all about the fountain views, we think the grilled meats are reason enough to visit the plush restaurant. The spot is ideal for an intimate evening under the stars, in a luxury setting, with great food and vistas. O Park Hyatt Jeddah, Al Hamra, hyattrestaurants.com (012 263 9666). NAKHEEL This OG al fresco spot offers the best of both worlds for sports fans – good eats and live football. You need to be here when the biggies from the Saudi Pro League are playing – the atmosphere is just incredible. Nakheel is the kind of place where you can kick back with friends, enjoy the match and dig into food that’s absolutely lip-smacking. Make it part of your regular weekend routine. O Ash Shati, @alnakheel_ksa (055 544 3619). NAWA PATIO If you’re all about aesthetics and love a spot that’s ’gram-ready, Nawa Patio is calling your name. The presentation is on point, the view from the patio is incredible (you’ll even get sights of King Fahd Fountain from up here), and every nook and cranny of the place seems designed to make you want to snap a photo. Whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch or dinner, the menu is full of options that are as good for the eye as they are for the stomach. We’re getting hungry just thinking about it. O Prince Sultan Rd., Ar Rawdah, @nawapatio (054 141 4908). SIBLINGS Launched in 2019 as a neighbourhood coffee shop in Ar Rawdah by Jeddah-based siblings (the name gives it away), Siblings has since transformed into a full-blown restaurant without losing its cosy neighbourhood charm. The outdoor seating area is located right next to a major road, but the setting feels surprisingly peaceful, which just adds to its allure. There’s no wrong reason to visit, whether it’s to grab a cuppa or indulge in a full meal, everyone’s welcome. Gather up your siblings and go for breakfast. O Ar Rawdah, @siblings.sa / siblingsgroup.com. SIDDHARTA LOUNGE Siddhartha Lounge is all about those views that will have your social feeds getting a few more likes. It ticks many more boxes thanks to rooftop views of the cityscape below, an infinity pool that will have you wanting to take a dip and fusion Mediterranean and Asian flavours. Don’t miss the aromatic curries and fresh seafood or the lush mocktails. The lounge also features live DJ performances. This chic spot was winner of the Best Lounge at the Time Out Jeddah Restaurant Awards 2024. Head over now. O Assila, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Al Andalus, sevenrooms.com / @siddhartaloungejeddah. SHABABIK When you’re looking for a taste of Lebanon in the Red Sea city, Shababik is the spot to dine at. It’s a favourite for all occasions. When it comes to outdoor restaurants in Jeddah with sights of the city’s shimmering skyline with the gentle hum of Arabic music, there’s no better place than here. Tuck into freshly baked pita bread and sizzling grills before feasting your eyes and stomach on a colourful tapestry of mezze platters brimming with hummus, baba ganoush and falafel. O Ar Rawdah, sevenrooms.com / @shababikksa (92 000 3945). SNUG A lot of cafés focus so much on the indoor aesthetics that the outdoors seem an afterthought. But not at Snug. Here the outdoor seating area is as pretty as the inside. Adorned with hanging plants, potted greens and comfy seats, it’s a mini oasis in the Red Sea city. The coffee is top-notch and the vibe is cosy. For a laid-back but lovely café experience, Snug is the spot. The name says it all. Bring your crew and get comfortable in the plush outdoor area as you sip on specialty coffee and nosh on pastries and sandwiches. O Ar Rawdah, @snugcafe.sa (055 170 9661). TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 16TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1602/12/2024 13:5502/12/2024 13:55OUTDOOR DINING timeoutjeddah.com Winter 2024 17 “You’ll get breathtaking views from all angles at this stunning open-air lounge” Soleil SOLEIL Looking to elevate your evening? We’ll see you at Soleil, Jeddah’s newest lounge. With stunning views of the endless Red Sea, sip on a range of handcrafted refreshments by the poolside with the hustle and bustle of the city way down below. Located in the Rosewood Jeddah Hotel, you’ll get breathtaking views from all angles at this stunning open-air lounge. Whether it’s enjoying a sunset with friends or a fun evening under the stars, Soleil is a beautiful spot. O Rosewood Jeddah Hotel, Ash Shati, rosewoodhotels.com (012 260 7140). VIVACI Vivaci is quickly building a name for itself for great Italian food. Plus, it comes with an al fresco dining area that’s perfect for the season. When it comes to the food, the specialty here is pizza. The truffle pizza in particular is a star. While dining, expect to witness theatrics as the pizza chefs toss the dough high in the air and interact with diners. Keep room for dessert; you shouldn’t leave without indulging in the tiramisu. Overall, this is a fab spot to enjoy the tantalising flavours of Italy under Jeddah’s open skies. O Al Zahra, @vivaci.sa (055 103 1177). TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 17TOJ_EN009_12_17_Outdoor cafes lounges_13458548.indd 1702/12/2024 13:5502/12/2024 13:55FAMIL Y DA YS OUTFAMIL Y FUN S audi is renowned for the value it places on family. Family-bonding, outings and get-togethers are deeply ingrained in Saudi society, and while staying at home with the family during the weekend is always a great idea, going out together and creating lasting memories is the best way to strengthen ties. Lucky for us, Saudi Arabia offers plenty of exciting adventures where the little ones can join in on the fun. Whether you’re enjoying a day out in your own city (shout-out to Jeddah) or embarking on a family trip to explore new horizons, we’ve curated the best places and activities in KSA to keep you grinning from ear to ear. AL AHSA Located in the East of Saudi Arabia, and home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, Al Ahsa is a destination that’s perfect for a family trip. Filled with a variety of beautiful landmarks and landscapes, Al Ahsa meaning ‘streaming water’ (and fittingly so) is home to one of the biggest oases in the world (we’ll get to that soon enough). What will truly make you want to return to the province is the welcoming warmth of the locals, who have mastered their own unique sense of originality as seen across the many exquisite products in the area. Did we mention it’s a great place to shop local? Characterised by fertile lands, this province has enjoyed an important commercial position since 960AD, as a trading hub for many countries around the world through the port of Al Uqair. The spot, holding many stories and landmarks is a must-visit, so here are some of the things to check out once you land. AL AHSA OASIS Let’s start off big, and what’s bigger than the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ahsa Oasis. This natural oasis, located in Al Hofuf, is considered the largest natural oasis in the world, with an area that exceeds 85 square kilometres. Added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list back in 2018, this is a picturesque spot you can photograph, enjoy adventures and relax in. Picture caves, springs, plains and mountains. Of course, we mustn’t forget about the date palm trees. The oasis is filled with over 2.5 million sweet date palm trees, making it a perfect opportunity for date tasting. Kid-approved activities in Saudi you need to do at least once TuraifNext >