Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Ad Dammām, Saudi Arabia
1. Kabsa
A traditional Saudi Arabian rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken or mutton) and spices. Try it at Al-Bahia Restaurant for an authentic taste.
- Authenticity: Serves traditional Saudi Arabian dish made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Taste: Known for its unique blend of aromatic spices and tender meat.
- Experience: Dining at Al-Bahia Restaurant offers an immersive cultural experience.
2. Machboos
A popular dish in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, made with rice, fish or meat, and various spices. Visit Al-Fattan Restaurant for an exquisite Machboos experience.
- Regional Specialty: A local favorite from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
- Seafood Option: Offers fish and seafood options in addition to meat.
- Spiciness: Can be customized to suit varying spice tolerances.
3. Sambousa
A pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables. You can find delicious Sambousas at Al-Ghabra Bakery.
- Portability: Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Flavor Variety: Both meat and vegetarian options available.
- Tradition: A traditional Middle Eastern pastry enjoyed in many countries.
4. Fahsa
A creamy yogurt dish made with salt and spices, often served as a side dish. Try Fahsa at Al-Nassima Restaurant.
- Refreshing Side Dish: A cooling accompaniment to the rich flavors of Saudi Arabian cuisine.
- Local Ingredients: Made with fresh, locally sourced yogurt and spices.
- Customization: Can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
5. Harees
A dish made from crushed wheat and meat (usually lamb or chicken), often served during special occasions. Visit Al-Mamlakah Restaurant for Harees.
- Cultural Significance: Traditionally served during Eid celebrations.
- Hearty Meal: A filling dish perfect for larger meals.
- Flavor Intensity: Features rich flavors from the slow-cooked meat and spices.
6. Majboos
A flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and saffron. Try Majboos at Al-Nahla Restaurant.
- Rich Aroma: Infused with the rich aroma of saffron.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a main dish or side dish.
- Taste of Luxury: Majboos is considered one of the more luxurious dishes in Saudi Arabian cuisine.
7. Kunafa
A sweet pastry made from shredded khubz (Arabic bread) and soaked in sugar syrup. Al-Ahlam Pastry Shop offers a wide variety of Kunafas.
- Sweet Treat: Ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Customization: Offers various flavor options such as cheese, nuts, and pistachio.
- Tradition: A traditional Middle Eastern dessert enjoyed in many countries.
8. Mahshi
Stuffed vegetables (usually vine leaves or grape leaves) filled with rice and various spices. Try Mahshi at Al-Sham Restaurant.
- Vegetarian Option: A delicious vegetarian dish.
- Cultural Significance: A popular dish across the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses fresh, locally sourced vegetables and herbs.
9. Sahlab
A warm, milk-based drink flavored with rose water and topped with cinnamon. Enjoy Sahlab at Al-Faisaliah Center's café.
- Warm Beverage: Ideal for cold weather or after a meal.
- Taste of Saudi Arabia: A traditional Saudi Arabian drink with distinctive flavors.
- Customization: Can be customized with varying levels of sweetness and spiciness.
10. Baklava
A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts) and honey syrup. Find Baklava at Al-Aseel Pastry Shop.
- Traditional Dessert: A classic Middle Eastern dessert enjoyed in many countries.
- Taste of Nuts and Honey: Features a delicious combination of nuts and honey.
- Customization: Offers various nut options such as pistachio, walnut, or almond.
11. Fatteh
A popular Middle Eastern dish made from crushed or layered pieces of Arabic bread topped with various ingredients such as chickpeas, fried chickpeas, and yogurt. Try Fatteh at Al-Kuwait Restaurant.
- Versatile: Offers variations with different main ingredients such as meat or vegetables.
- Refreshing Side Dish: Ideal for cooling down during hot weather.
- Taste of Crunchiness and Creaminess: Features a delightful contrast between the crunchy bread and creamy toppings.
12. Foul Mudammas
A dish made from fava beans cooked with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Visit Al-Khaleej Restaurant for Foul Mudammas.
- Vegetarian Option: A delicious vegetarian dish.
- Taste of Middle East: Popular in many countries across the Middle East.
- Customization: Can be customized with various toppings such as vegetables, herbs, and spices.
13. Shawarma
A sandwich made from thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or lamb) wrapped in flatbread with various toppings and sauces. Try Shawarma at Al-Madina Sandwich Shop.
- Portability: Perfect for on-the-go dining.
- Flavor Variety: Offers various meat and topping options.
- Quick Meal: Fast service for a quick meal or snack.
14. Shish Taouk
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in yogurt and various spices. Enjoy Shish Taouk at Al-Hussain Restaurant.
- Taste of Spice: Features a delicious blend of aromatic spices.
- Healthy Option: Grilled chicken provides a lean protein source.
- Flavor Intensity: The marinade ensures a rich, flavorful chicken experience.
15. Falafel
Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas and various herbs and spices. Try Falafel at Al-Aziziah Restaurant.
- Vegetarian Option: A delicious vegetarian dish.
- Portability: Ideal for on-the-go dining or as a snack.
- Flavor Variety: Offers various toppings and sauces for customization.