National Classics

• Kabsa: Fragrant long-grain rice cooked with spices and served with roasted chicken or lamb, Saudi Arabia’s most common staple dish.
• Mandi: Lamb slow-cooked in an underground pit or specialized oven and served with rice, known for its rich meaty flavor and often served at festive meals.
• Jareesh: A thick porridge-like dish made from crushed wheat, usually served with lamb, commonly eaten during Ramadan and family meals.
• Mutabbaq: A square-shaped stuffed flatbread filled with meat, eggs, and leeks, then pan-fried—commonly found on the streets.
• Shawarma and Kebabs: Mainstays of street food, affordable and served very quickly.

Snacks and Desserts

• Hummus and Baba Ghanoush: Served with flatbread, typically eaten as a starter.
• Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls, vegetarian-friendly.
• Kunafa: A sweet dessert made with cheese-filled pastry, soaked in syrup, and extremely sweet.
• Dates: Saudi Arabia’s signature produce, available in many varieties, commonly offered to guests and as a popular souvenir.
• Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): A light yellow-green coffee infused with cardamom; traditionally enjoyed with dates.

Where to Eat and Price Range

• Local Restaurants: A serving of Kabsa or Mandi costs around 30–70 SAR, usually generous in portion, often shared by two.
• Street Food: Shawarma and kebab rolls are around 5–15 SAR.
• Chain Cafés: With a strong coffee culture, a cup of latte is about 15–25 SAR.
• Old Souks and Spice Markets: Great places to buy dates, spices, and Arabic coffee beans to take home.

Practical Tips

• Alcohol is completely banned across Saudi Arabia; restaurants do not serve any alcoholic drinks, and it is best to avoid discussing alcohol-related topics in public.
• During Ramadan, most restaurants are closed during the day, though some hotels and designated areas may serve meals.
• Portions tend to be large; sharing one main dish and a side is usually enough for two people.
• Tipping is not mandatory but 5–10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants and hotels.