A Foodie’s Guide to Jeddah: Local Dishes You Must Try

“Jeddah Ghair!” Have you ever heard of this popular saying? It means “Jeddah is different!” and when it comes to the food scene of Jeddah, this saying really hits the mark! Jeddah is a city aching to tempt your palate and provides a tantalizing peek into the scene and experience, from the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, permeating throughout the wider Middle East, and beyond. Jeddah is a town displaying a rich multiracial food culture, vibrant street food, and highly traditional fine-dining establishments. No matter what, whether you're a hardcore foodie craving Matazeez or Kabsa or just someone who loves to discover new flavors like waffle and beef burgers at Food Trucks Park, the food scene in Jeddah will amaze and delight you. Ready to dive in? Come on, let's figure out the famous food in Jeddah, what restaurants, and what to experience in this crazy town.

Jeddah's food culture is a mixture of tastes because it has political and geographical significance in terms of serving as the frontier for the South Red Sea and its immediate neighborhood toward African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries. Saudi cuisine blends centuries-old traditions with modern influences. There is a food adventure in the heady fragrance of Yemen spices, the crispness of Red Sea fish, and hearty food in Bedouin life, Jeddah takes you on a food adventure.

When exploring the city, it's clear that food is deeply woven into daily life. Dining is a communal experience, with food prepared, shared, and enjoyed among friends and family. From street food to casual dining and fine dining restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every appetite!

Not only does rich culture and history make Jeddah stand out but also its mouthwatering food scene gets the real hype. Here are the 9 must-try Saudi dishes in Jeddah!

Mandi – The Ultimate Saudi Comfort Food
What's a more appropriate way to begin a food trail than with Mandi? This popular dish is a fragrant combination of rice, soft meat (such as lamb or chicken), and spices such as saffron, cumin, and cinnamon. The amount of meat can vary to make it a lesser/greater portion. Mandi is both palatable and nutritious and traditionally cooked in a tandoor.

Kabsa – Saudi Arabia’s National Dish
Kabsa is the heart and soul of Saudi cuisine. This seasoned rice is conventionally consumed with chicken or meat, and also with flavor seasonings and vegetables. Kabsa, frequently known as the national dish of Saudi Arabia, is an attention grabber, which is suitable for a group meal or a celebratory occasion.

Shawarma – A Middle Eastern Classic
Leaving Jeddah without indulging in their Shawarma? It’s no exception! Thinly sliced marinated meat (generally chicken or beef) is roasted atop a vertical rotisserie, squeezed into a pita, and topped with garlic sauce, pickles, and salads.

Jarish – A Hearty Grain Dish
For a different dining experience, you can make your way straight to Jarish. This dish is basically made of ground wheat and served with slow-cooked meat (generally chicken or lamb) with tomato and spices.

Samboosa – A Savory Snack
These light and crispy, deep-fried treats are a Ramadan ultimate favorite, but they are enjoyed any time of the year. Samboosa is a streetside food that may be served in a huge variety of dishes from spiced meat and cheese to salads and bean puddings.

Murtabak – A Street Food Delight
Murtabak is a savory stuffed bun that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Typically, stuffed and usually containing spiced ground meat, onions, and egg. It is a street food snack in Jeddah and can be served any time of the day be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Harees – A Warm, Creamy Dish
In Jeddah, finding a classic recipe for Harees is a bit challenging but why need a recipe when it can be served right in front of you ready-made? It is a warm and creamy wheat and meat mixture that is commonly seasoned with ghee and spices.

Bukhari Rice – A Rice Lover’s Dream
If flavored rice is your cup of tea, then Bukhari rice is a must-try. It is prepared with aromatic spices and tomatoes, and it is traditional in most cases consumed with grilled meat (i.e., chicken or lamb). Rice is light and delicate, while meat is intensely deep flavored—superbly satisfying for the tongue.

Al Baik – Jeddah’s Famous Fried Chicken
If you’re craving fried chicken with a Middle Eastern twist, Al Baik is the place to go. It is a fast food star of Jeddah, known for fried chicken with crisp skin and garlicky sauce, Al Baik.

Jeddah is a city where the aroma of every meal and exuberant eating traditions are infused in every corner. Whether you're enjoying rich authentic dishes like Mandi and Kabsa or wanna munch on some nicely-cooked steak in Jeddah, the city is sure to spice up your taste buds with a burst of distinctive flavors. So, hungry folks, and ready for a food adventure! Bon Appetite!