Jeddah, the coastal heart of Saudi Arabia, stands as a vibrant gateway between tradition and modernity. Its location along the Red Sea shapes a unique culinary identity, rich in seafood, spices, and Arabian heritage. The city’s Hejazi cuisine blends Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean influences, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange. From aromatic mandi and kabsa to elegant sea-view dining experiences, every meal in Jeddah tells a story of taste and tradition.
Locals, expats, and travelers gather across the Corniche, Al-Balad, and modern districts to explore this evolving food culture. Each restaurant, from fine-dining rooftops to family-run eateries, showcases the city’s warmth and innovation. This guide explores the top restaurants in Jeddah, revealing where Saudi flavors meet global cuisine in settings that define hospitality, creativity, and authenticity across Jeddah’s thriving dining scene.
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Jeddah
Jeddah’s vibrant dining culture represents the city’s evolving identity—where local heritage meets global cuisine. Each restaurant listed below captures a unique essence of Jeddah’s culinary landscape, from places to eat in jeddah to authentic traditional kitchens.
1. Myazu
Myazu is one of Jeddah’s most celebrated Japanese fine-dining restaurants, known for its artistic presentation and sophisticated ambiance. The restaurant offers a refined blend of Japanese minimalism and Saudi luxury, serving premium Wagyu beef, sushi, and robata-grilled dishes prepared with precision. Myazu’s sleek interiors, modern lighting, and curated playlists create a tranquil dining experience. Each dish celebrates balance, harmony, and craftsmanship, reflecting Japan’s meticulous culinary traditions. Myazu stands out as a perfect choice for those seeking elevated Asian flavors in Jeddah’s cosmopolitan heart.
Location: Prince Saud Al Faisal Street, Ar Rawdah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
2. Kuuru
Kuuru blends Japanese and Peruvian cuisines into a captivating fusion experience. The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch skilled chefs craft dishes that combine Japanese precision with Latin flair. Signature plates include tiradito, ceviche, and Nikkei-style maki, each served with vibrant sauces and fresh ingredients. Kuuru’s contemporary interiors and artistic ceramic plating enhance the sensory journey. It’s a haven for those who appreciate creativity, cultural fusion, and culinary storytelling in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
Location: Al Kurnaysh Road, Ash Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
3. Niyyali
Overlooking the beautiful Jeddah Corniche, Niyyali offers a taste of Lebanon’s coastal cuisine infused with local influences. The menu highlights seafood grills, mezze platters, and charcoal-cooked meats, capturing the Mediterranean’s freshness. Guests enjoy panoramic sea views while dining in a modern setting inspired by Beirut’s lively spirit. From family dinners to sunset meals, Niyyali delivers a perfect mix of sophistication and comfort. Its ambiance and menu make it one of Jeddah’s top destinations for authentic Lebanese dining.
Location: Corniche Road, Ash Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
4. Meez
Meez reimagines Middle Eastern dining with a modern twist. The restaurant celebrates local flavors through shared plates, creative breakfast menus, and handcrafted desserts inspired by regional traditions. Its interior combines natural textures and minimalist elegance, offering a relaxed yet upscale environment. The menu bridges cultural roots and modern tastes, presenting dishes like hummus variations, za’atar flatbreads, and spiced lamb bowls. Meez captures the soul of Jeddah’s contemporary food movement, blending innovation with heartfelt Arab hospitality.
Location: King Abdulaziz Road, Al Zahra District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
5. Indulge Thyself
Indulge Thyself stands at the forefront of sustainable fine dining in Saudi Arabia. Led by a team of talented female chefs, it pioneers zero-waste cuisine and farm-to-table sourcing. The menu changes seasonally, focusing on local ingredients and artistic presentation. Guests experience a harmony of texture, flavor, and purpose—each dish designed with mindful creativity. The restaurant’s calm atmosphere and contemporary design make it ideal for those seeking a refined dining experience aligned with modern sustainability values.
Location: Sari Street, Al Rawdah District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
6. Al Saddah
A cornerstone of traditional Saudi cuisine, Al Saddah brings authentic Hejazi flavors to life. Known for its mandi, kabsa, and saleeg, the restaurant preserves recipes passed down through generations. The interiors reflect cultural warmth with Arabic décor, family-style seating, and generous hospitality. Each meal celebrates the essence of Saudi home cooking—simple, flavorful, and communal. For visitors wanting a genuine taste of local culinary heritage, Al Saddah remains one of the most cherished restaurants in Jeddah.
Location: Prince Sultan Road, Al Salama District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
7. Al Romansiah
Al Romansiah is a popular chain that captures the heart of traditional Saudi dining. Famous for its pit-cooked mandi, madbi, and mathbi, it offers hearty meals served in generous portions. The aroma of slow-cooked meats and spiced rice welcomes every guest, creating a homely atmosphere. Its simple interiors and focus on authentic flavors make it a go-to spot for families and pilgrims. Al Romansiah represents Jeddah’s proud connection to its culinary roots, offering warmth in every bite.
Location: Prince Majid Road, Al Marwah District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
8. Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão introduces the art of Brazilian churrasco dining to Jeddah. This upscale steakhouse offers premium cuts of meat grilled over open flames, served tableside by expert gauchos. The experience is immersive—guests enjoy endless servings of meats alongside a lavish salad bar. Elegant interiors and professional service define its global standard. Perfect for celebrations or business dinners, Fogo de Chão offers Jeddah residents a genuine taste of Brazilian hospitality and culinary mastery.
Location: Al Kurnaysh Road, Ash Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
9. Avo Restaurant
Avo Restaurant represents the global flavor of Jeddah’s dining evolution. Its international fusion menu highlights creativity, presentation, and flavor balance. Dishes draw inspiration from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, combining familiar tastes with artistic flair. The sleek design, soft lighting, and elegant plating create a sophisticated atmosphere. From truffle pasta to seafood risotto, every dish showcases premium ingredients. Avo appeals to cosmopolitan diners seeking refinement, diversity, and culinary artistry in one memorable experience.
Location: Ahmad Al Attas Street, Al Zahra District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
10. Shababïk
Shababïk embodies the liveliness of Lebanese cuisine with a modern Saudi touch. Its open spaces, warm lights, and bustling energy recreate Beirut’s iconic restaurant culture. The menu features mezze platters, mixed grills, and seafood specialties, all served with authentic spices and generous portions. Shababïk balances traditional recipes with creative presentation, making it ideal for group dining and family gatherings. Every visit captures the essence of Levantine hospitality, making it a standout in Jeddah’s culinary landscape.
Location: Stars Avenue Mall, King Abdulaziz Road, Ash Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Best by Cuisine Type
Jeddah’s restaurant culture reflects the city’s openness to global influences while preserving its Saudi and Hejazi culinary roots. Each cuisine type offers a distinct experience shaped by heritage, geography, and innovation.
1. Saudi & Hejazi Cuisine
Jeddah’s Hejazi cuisine stands as a living reflection of Saudi Arabia’s coastal history and hospitality. Dishes such as mandi, kabsa, saleeg, and madfoon represent the region’s deep connection to family and tradition. These slow-cooked meals, rich with saffron, cardamom, and ghee, symbolize warmth and togetherness.
Al Saddah and Al Romansiah lead in serving authentic local flavors, offering communal seating and freshly prepared rice dishes with tender meat. Each bite embodies the simplicity and generosity that define Saudi culture. For travelers seeking genuine local dining in Jeddah, these restaurants provide a memorable cultural immersion, balancing tradition and taste in every meal.
2. Middle Eastern & Lebanese Cuisine
Levantine food holds a special place in Jeddah’s dining scene, celebrated for its mezze platters, kebabs, and charcoal-grilled seafood. The city’s cosmopolitan mix has long embraced Lebanese cuisine for its freshness and social dining style.
Niyyali, located on the Corniche, elevates Lebanese flavors through refined presentation and breathtaking sea views. Similarly, Shababïk brings Beirut’s liveliness into a modern Saudi context with colorful interiors and vibrant energy. Guests enjoy hummus, tabbouleh, and shawarma accompanied by fresh juices and Arabic desserts. These venues reflect how Jeddah’s culinary culture welcomes regional diversity while maintaining Arab authenticity and charm.
3. Seafood & Red Sea Specialties
As a historic port city along the Red Sea, Jeddah has always been synonymous with seafood. Local fishermen once supplied the markets of Al-Balad with fresh hammour, shrimp, and crab, forming the backbone of the city’s coastal cuisine. Today, restaurants across the Corniche continue this proud legacy through contemporary seafood experiences.
Top choices include Twina Seafood, known for its local recipes and family-friendly setting, Blue Ocean, offering a nautical-themed dining ambiance with panoramic sea views, and Albasali, famous for its grilled hammour and sayadiyah rice. Each venue captures the maritime essence of Jeddah’s heritage—where the Red Sea’s bounty meets culinary craftsmanship and Saudi hospitality.
4. Asian & Fusion Dining
Jeddah’s evolving global palate is evident in its rise of Asian and fusion restaurants that blend creativity with authenticity. Leading this trend, Myazu redefines Japanese fine dining with delicate flavors, minimalist aesthetics, and artistic plating. Similarly, Kuuru introduces Nikkei fusion, merging Japanese technique with Peruvian zest, offering a sensory journey unlike any other in Saudi Arabia.
Other notable names include Toki, known for its classic Asian luxury, Sushi Centro, a favorite for casual Japanese dining, and Wakame, which delivers a lively and flavorful sushi experience. These restaurants showcase Jeddah’s openness to culinary innovation, serving dishes that harmonize Eastern craftsmanship with Western presentation in elegant surroundings.
5. International & European Cuisine
Jeddah’s global diversity extends into its European-inspired fine dining scene, where Italian, French, and Mediterranean cuisines flourish. The city’s international restaurants combine global standards with local sophistication, appealing to residents and travelers seeking variety beyond traditional fare.
Avo Restaurant stands as a symbol of Jeddah’s cosmopolitan flavor, serving dishes like truffle risotto and Mediterranean seafood. Il Gabbiano, perched by the waterfront, brings authentic Italian coastal cuisine with homemade pasta and freshly baked bread. Lusin, inspired by Armenian culinary heritage, offers elegant dining infused with Middle Eastern spices and artistic design.
Together, these venues define Jeddah’s modern gastronomy—an interplay of culture, flavor, and innovation—making the city one of the most exciting culinary destinations in Saudi Arabia.
Best Dining Locations in Jeddah
Jeddah’s dining districts each tell a unique story, shaped by their history, location, and atmosphere. From the vibrant Corniche overlooking the Red Sea to the historic charm of Al-Balad, every area offers a distinct culinary identity. Here are the city’s most iconic dining locations, each celebrated for its food, setting, and spirit.
Jeddah Corniche
The Jeddah Corniche is the city’s premier waterfront dining stretch, offering panoramic Red Sea views and a refreshing coastal breeze. Restaurants here are designed for leisurely meals at sunset, blending fine dining with natural beauty. Venues like Niyyali, Blue Ocean, and Al-Nakheel Restaurant stand out for their seafood dishes and scenic ambiance. Diners enjoy grilled fish, mezze platters, and international cuisine surrounded by serene seascapes. Whether for family dinners or romantic evenings, the Corniche defines Jeddah’s modern coastal charm.
Location: Along the Red Sea coast, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Al-Balad (Historic District)
Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic heart, offers a completely different dining experience rooted in tradition and heritage. Tucked among coral-stone buildings and narrow alleys, small eateries and family-run kitchens serve authentic Saudi and Hejazi dishes. Visitors can enjoy Albasali Seafood, known for its Red Sea catch cooked with local spices, or taste freshly baked bread and traditional stews in humble settings. Dining in Al-Balad connects travelers to Jeddah’s soul—where the aroma of spices, coffee, and grilled fish fills every corner of history.
Location: Near the southern part of the city center, Saudi Arabia.
Tahlia Street & Al Rawdah
The bustling Tahlia Street and nearby Al Rawdah District form Jeddah’s contemporary dining hub. These areas are lined with trendy restaurants, designer cafés, and international franchises, attracting young professionals and tourists alike. Top venues such as Myazu, Kuuru, Meez, and Fogo de Chão offer a mix of fine dining and global gastronomy. The energy here is modern and sophisticated—where Saudi elegance meets international flavor. It’s the perfect zone for those seeking cosmopolitan dining and urban nightlife in the heart of Jeddah.
Location: Central Jeddah, near Al Rawdah district.
Al Hamra & Al Shati
The Al Hamra and Al Shati districts represent Jeddah’s refined coastal lifestyle, home to many of the city’s luxury hotels and fine-dining venues. Restaurants like Avo, Niyyali, and select hotel establishments offer premium menus with elegant interiors and sea views. These areas attract business travelers, families, and gourmet enthusiasts seeking elevated service and exclusivity. The combination of international cuisine, Red Sea ambiance, and modern architecture creates an unforgettable dining experience, defining Jeddah’s growing reputation as a culinary capital of Saudi Arabia.
Location: Coastal area of Jeddah, along the Corniche Road, Saudi Arabia.
Signature Dishes to Try in Jeddah
Jeddah’s cuisine captures the soul of Saudi Arabia’s Hejazi region, blending local ingredients with centuries-old flavors. Every dish tells a story of heritage, hospitality, and the Red Sea’s bounty. Here are some of the city’s most beloved traditional dishes every visitor should experience.
Mandi
Mandi is one of the most iconic dishes in Saudi Arabia, originating from Yemen and deeply embraced in Jeddah’s food culture. It features tender meat usually lamb or chicken cooked with spiced rice in underground pits that infuse a smoky aroma. The result is flavorful rice, soft meat, and a hint of saffron and cardamom. Mandi represents communal dining and generosity in Saudi homes. The best mandi in Jeddah is found at Al Saddah and Al Romansiah, where tradition meets authenticity in every serving.
Kabsa
Kabsa, the national dish of Saudi Arabia, is a must-try for anyone visiting Jeddah. It consists of spiced rice, tender lamb or chicken, and roasted nuts, served with tomato-based sauce and fresh salad. Unlike mandi, kabsa is cooked above ground, allowing spices to blend deeply with the meat and rice. It embodies the spirit of sharing and celebration in Saudi culture. Many locals recommend Al Romansiah for its perfectly balanced kabsa that combines aroma, color, and texture beautifully.
Saleeg
Saleeg is a signature dish of the Hejazi region, often described as Saudi Arabia’s version of risotto. Made with rice slow-cooked in milk and chicken broth, it offers a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken or lamb. The dish symbolizes comfort and family gatherings, often served on special occasions. Saleeg reflects Jeddah’s coastal identity and cultural refinement, balancing simplicity and depth of flavor. Restaurants like Al Saddah and Al Nakheel are known for serving the most traditional versions of saleeg.
Sayadiyah
Sayadiyah is Jeddah’s signature Red Sea seafood rice dish, deeply rooted in its fishing heritage. It’s made with hammour or grouper fish, cooked with caramelized onions, tomatoes, and spiced rice. The rich brown color and smoky aroma distinguish it from other rice dishes. Sayadiyah is often served with tahini sauce and fresh lemon, bringing coastal freshness to every bite. For the most authentic version, locals head to Twina Seafood or Albasali, both renowned for honoring Jeddah’s maritime legacy.
Kunafa & Arabic Sweets
No meal in Jeddah ends without traditional Arabic desserts, especially Kunafa—a sweet made with shredded pastry, cheese, and sugar syrup. Originating from the Levant, it has become a symbol of celebration across Saudi Arabia. Variations include cream-filled, nut-topped, and rosewater-infused Kunafa, often enjoyed with Arabic coffee. Dessert shops such as Mado Café and La Patisserie serve the city’s finest kunafa, baklava, and basbousa, offering visitors a taste of Jeddah’s sweet culinary heritage and Middle Eastern indulgence.
Jeddah’s culinary landscape
Jeddah’s culinary landscape reflects centuries of exchange, trade, and evolution. Historically, merchants from Africa, India, and the Levant arrived through the city’s Red Sea port, introducing spices, recipes, and flavors that merged with Hejazi traditions. In the old souks of Al-Balad, families served simple meals of fish, rice, and dates, forming the foundation of Jeddah’s local cuisine. These traditional dishes—saleeg, kabsa, and mandi—remain symbols of Saudi hospitality, often shared during gatherings and celebrations.
As the city modernized, Jeddah embraced international gastronomy while preserving its authentic food identity. Today, travelers can dine at Michelin-level venues, experience fusion menus, or enjoy seafood freshly caught from the Red Sea. The rise of sustainable dining and farm-to-table concepts highlights a new awareness of quality and culture.
Dining in Jeddah is not just about taste—it’s about experience and connection. Whether in a fine-dining restaurant along the Corniche or a hidden eatery in Al-Rawdah, visitors encounter warm service, family values, and respect for tradition. Understanding local dining etiquette, such as sharing dishes and beginning with “Bismillah,” deepens appreciation for this cultural heritage. Each restaurant, old or new, continues Jeddah’s story—where flavor meets faith, and heritage meets innovation.
Luxury Dining Experiences in Jeddah
Jeddah’s fine-dining scene reflects its cosmopolitan elegance, offering world-class culinary experiences that merge sophistication with cultural authenticity. Leading this sphere are restaurants like Myazu, Kuuru, Niyyali, and Fogo de Chão, each presenting a unique blend of global techniques and regional inspirations.
Myazu, often hailed as the finest Japanese restaurant in Saudi Arabia, offers artistic presentations, robata-grilled dishes, and omakase-style dining. Its modern ambience attracts both locals and travelers seeking refined flavors. Kuuru, another high-end Japanese-Latin fusion spot, embodies Jeddah’s bold culinary creativity with dramatic interiors and exceptional service. Niyyali, overlooking the Jeddah Corniche, delivers a luxurious Lebanese coastal experience, combining mezzes, grilled meats, and breathtaking sea views. Meanwhile, Fogo de Chão, the renowned Brazilian steakhouse, caters to those who love indulgent dining and premium cuts carved tableside.
Each of these restaurants emphasizes culinary artistry, immersive ambiance, and exceptional service, showcasing Jeddah’s evolution into a luxury dining destination. The average cost per person ranges between SAR 250–600, depending on the restaurant and menu choices, offering unforgettable experiences for discerning diners.
Foodie Experiences and Culinary Tours in Jeddah
Exploring Jeddah’s food scene is more than dining—it’s an immersive cultural journey that connects cuisine, lifestyle, and leisure. Foodie tours across the city allow travelers to experience Jeddah’s rich culinary diversity alongside its coastal and modern attractions.
Walking tours in Al-Balad, the UNESCO-listed historic district, take visitors through bustling alleys filled with traditional Hejazi street food, fresh bread, samboosa, and aromatic Arabic coffee. Guides often share stories of ancient spice routes and family recipes passed down for generations. Along the Jeddah Corniche, culinary trails focus on Red Sea specialties, where guests can enjoy freshly grilled fish, prawns, and crab while watching the sunset over the water. These experiences often blend seamlessly with water activities, such as boat rides, paddle boarding, or evening yacht dinners that showcase Jeddah’s coastal charm.
Inside the city, major malls like Red Sea Mall, Jeddah Waterfront Mall, and Mall of Arabia host some of the best mid-range dining spots, blending shopping with global cuisine. Visitors can savor everything from Lebanese platters to modern sushi before indulging in dessert cafés and artisanal gelato. For travelers interested in exploring more, you can check out the complete list of malls in Jeddah to discover additional dining, shopping, and leisure destinations across the city.
Dining Etiquette and Local Culture
Dining in Jeddah is more than a culinary experience it is an immersion into Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious identity. Every restaurant in the city adheres to halal standards, ensuring that all food is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, with alcohol and pork strictly prohibited. This reflects not only religious devotion but also the deep respect for purity and tradition that defines Saudi dining culture. Visitors will often notice restaurants separating family and singles sections, a customary practice that provides privacy and comfort within the framework of social decorum. However, many modern and international establishments in areas like Tahlia Street and Jeddah Corniche have adopted more open and inclusive layouts while maintaining cultural sensitivity.
Dress Code and Public Manners
The dress code in Jeddah remains modest—men should wear long trousers and shirts, while women are encouraged to wear an abaya, with headscarves optional for foreigners. Respectful behavior is expected in public, including refraining from loud conversation or public displays of affection. During prayer times (salah), restaurants often pause service or momentarily close their doors to honor the sanctity of worship. Locals typically plan their meals after Maghrib or Isha, creating a lively post-prayer dining scene filled with families and friends.
These customs highlight how dining in Jeddah goes beyond food—it is a reflection of faith, hospitality, and communal harmony. By observing local traditions, visitors not only enjoy the city’s diverse gastronomy but also connect deeply with its cultural rhythm, where every meal embodies the values of respect, gratitude, and togetherness.
Reliable Private City Tours and Local Transport in Jeddah
Exploring Jeddah becomes far more enjoyable when travelers have access to reliable private transportation offering comfort and flexibility. The city’s charm lies not only in its culinary diversity but also in its coastal beauty, vibrant souqs, and modern attractions. With convenient access to Jeddah’s beaches, visitors can enjoy water activities like scuba diving, parasailing, and yacht rides across the Red Sea. Many travelers prefer private taxi services for seamless travel between restaurants, shopping malls, cultural sites, and outdoor adventure spots throughout Jeddah’s scenic coastline.
Among the trusted providers, Alfalah Journey stands out for offering private city tours and customized travel experiences. Their professional drivers ensure safe, punctual, and smooth rides, ideal for travelers, families, or groups exploring Jeddah’s highlights. With door-to-door service, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free day moving between the Corniche, Al-Balad, Red Sea Mall, and fine-dining venues on Tahlia Street.
These tours combine comfort with discovery, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Jeddah’s local lifestyle while indulging in its diverse food scene. Whether heading to a seaside restaurant, a cultural museum, or a shopping district, private taxis offer the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace. For anyone seeking effortless mobility and authentic exploration, Jeddah’s private city tour services provide an ideal travel experience.
Conclusion
Jeddah stands as a living symbol of Saudi Arabia’s evolving culinary identity, where heritage and modern innovation coexist in harmony. Its restaurants, from luxurious seaside venues to humble street kitchens, reflect a society proud of its traditions yet open to global influence. Every dining experience in Jeddah celebrates hospitality, faith, and cultural depth, inviting travelers to taste the soul of the Kingdom through its diverse cuisine and explore remarkable places to visit in Jeddah that complement its vibrant food culture.
The city’s unique blend of Red Sea freshness, Hijazi warmth, and cosmopolitan creativity transforms every meal into a story of connection. Whether savoring fine dining at Tahlia Street, exploring the flavors of Al-Balad, relaxing by the Corniche, or reflecting on city tour experiences through Alfalah Journey, visitors encounter Jeddah’s essence — spiritual, vibrant, and welcoming.
In every flavor, view, and conversation, Jeddah nourishes both the spirit and the senses, reminding every traveler that in this city, food is culture, and culture is faith, intertwined with the beauty of its many places to visit.
