Where We Are Going Today: Bread Ahead

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Updated 25 August 2022
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Where We Are Going Today: Bread Ahead

Bread Ahead is a bakery that has traveled straight from London to Jeddah, and takes the doughnut scene in the city to the next level. The doughnuts are displayed on their side, and the fillings ooze out in perfect peaks. 

The melt-in-the-mouth doughnuts are like little clouds that makes the tastebuds explode with happiness when you bite into them.

The blackcurrant cheesecake version, for example, creates an explosion of flavors that perfectly balance sweet and sour.

If doughnuts are the highlight, the rest of the goodies on offer are not far behind. The perfect croissants can be enjoyed plain or with flavors such as pistachio chocolate and almonds.

Their bread and buns can be taken home, or you can order sandwiches and French toast from their sourdough or brioche selection.

They also serve pizza made in the authentic Italian way. They have kept the flavors simple but have perfected the taste of each.

The business not only aims to spread happiness through baked goods but also to spread knowledge through its baking school. You can register for the baking school through the website.

They hold small master classes that focus on just one kind of skill.

You can attend the classes regardless of where you are in your baking journey: beginner or an expert, there is something for everyone.

The classes are sometimes specific to a certain region, such as the eastern European or the Greek baking workshops.


Where We Are Going Today: Minaa Cafe in Jeddah

Updated 13 March 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Minaa Cafe in Jeddah

Minaa Cafe is a specialty coffee spot in Al-Balad, on the left side of Bait Naseef, the well-known historic Hijazi house. It stands out as one of the most interesting concept cafes in the area.

At the weekend, I headed to Al-Balad as I usually do to enjoy the atmosphere around iftar.

And of course, after iftar comes coffee time. I am not usually picky with cafes, but this time my friend — who was visiting from Riyadh and is a passionate cafe explorer — insisted that we visit Minaa Cafe.

The cafe is about a 15-minute walk from Al-Bay’ah Square. The walk itself was part of the experience, as we passed through some of the most visually charming alleys of Al-Balad.

When we arrived, we found the cafe tucked inside one of the old historic buildings. To enter, we had to climb a narrow staircase that led up to the small space.

The moment we stepped inside, I was surprised by the cosy interior, featuring a blue and white wood-and-cement theme inspired by Jeddah’s coastal identity.

Despite its very small size, Minaa Cafe offers much more than just coffee. (AN photo by Nada Hameed)

The name Minaa, which translates to sea portal in Arabic, reflects this maritime inspiration.

Despite its very small size — barely accommodating seven people — it offers much more than just coffee.

The space has a strong artistic touch and even includes a small concept store on the side.

There you can find T-shirts featuring characters that represent the people behind the cafe, who are also the ones working behind the coffee counter.

The cafe is owned by Jeddah’s well-known latte artist, Mohammed Jojo, and if you are lucky, you might even get your brew prepared by him during your visit.

I ordered my usual flat white, this time with coconut milk, and it was excellent. What truly stood out, however, were their freshly baked cookies.

They are made on order and served with a Mastic-flavored soft serve on the side, which adds a unique local twist to the dessert. The combination was so good that I ended up ordering another one for my friend to try.

Opened in 2023, Minaa Cafe also offers small souvenirs including keychains and magnets inspired by elements from Al-Balad, and miniature sailing ships, allowing visitors to leave with a little piece of the experience.

For more information, you can visit their Instagram page: @minaacoffee.