Where We Are Going Today: Athr Cafe in Riyadh offers gourmet coffee

1 / 5
Photo/Supplied
2 / 5
Photo/Supplied
3 / 5
Photo/Supplied
4 / 5
Photo/Supplied
5 / 5
Photo/Supplied
Short Url
Updated 31 March 2023
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: Athr Cafe in Riyadh offers gourmet coffee

If you like reading books while enjoying a beverage in a cozy atmosphere, you should visit Athr Cafe. Located in the center of the Al-Malqa district in Riyadh, it is a terrific spot to study, unwind, or get together with friends for a drink.

The genuine motorcycle next to the door, which gives the coffee shop a modern classic atmosphere, will catch your eye as soon as you arrive.  

One of the most well-liked study spots for undergrads, this student-focused cafe has a ton of study spaces.  

Athr Cafe offers gourmet coffee, speciality coffee, a selection of fresh baked goods and a variety of cold beverages.  

The library area, along with the extremely comfy luxury sofas and the cafe's warm and welcoming yellow lights, are what make this place unique.  

You can browse the selection of books, pick one you like, and relax and spend hours reading it in a serene environment.  

A spacious sitting space with tables, a more intimate outdoor seating area with cushions where you may gather with friends or family to enjoy after indulging in some delectable sweets, and the library area make up the seating area at Athr.  

Once inside the cafe, you'll feel as though you've embarked on a story that will transport you between its classic books and stylish, modern design.

Small business owners and locally produced commodities, including water, coffee beans, and baked goods, are supported by the coffee shops.

Visitors enjoy coming back frequently because of the staff's friendliness and professionalism, as well as the fact that every sip of every beverage is prepared correctly.  

For a more focused drink, you may add a shot of espresso to their speciality — Athr Mojito —  which is an extremely refreshing mojito made with berries or peaches.

The shop has a lot of natural elements, like wood and plants, that make you feel at home and entice you to remain longer.  

The most expensive drink the cafe offers is the signature one, which costs $6.40, making the price rate relatively fair for a neighborhood cafe.

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Karak Haala in Jeddah

Photo/Supplied
Updated 24 January 2026
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: Karak Haala in Jeddah

  • Karak Haala offers two popular Indian classics: chapati — the traditional flatbread made from whole wheat flour and cooked on a griddle — and chai karak, a creamy milk tea infused with bold spices and inspired by Indian masala chai

While Jeddah’s rich cultural diversity means that karak tea is widely available in the city, finding a place that prepares it the perfect way is not always easy. When a place does it right, it stands out.

So I was fortunate to come across Karak Haala at a dining square in Al-Rawdah that was bustling with families enjoying quick snacks and casual dinners. The lively square features outdoor seating, making it an appealing spot in winter.

Karak Haala offers two popular Indian classics: chapati — the traditional flatbread made from whole wheat flour and cooked on a griddle — and chai karak, a creamy milk tea infused with bold spices and inspired by Indian masala chai, widely loved across the Gulf.

The tea was rich, creamy, and well-spiced. I ordered a large cup, which was a generous enough helping to share. It paired well with four chapatis, one with fried eggs, one with cheese, and two interestingly filled with chicken masala and butter chicken, both of which were generously stuffed, juicy, and well-seasoned. Other fillings are also available. Each bite of chapati, followed by a sip of karak, made for a satisfying experience.

The outlet serves a complimentary traditional Indian cream bun with every cup of karak, which, while fresh and appetizing, felt, to me, more appropriate as a breakfast item rather than an evening treat.

With reasonable prices — ranging from SR9 to SR12 — Karak Haala is a solid choice for those seeking a light dinner or a quick snack. The menu also includes a variety of hot and cold beverages, sharing boxes, burgers, club sandwiches, and more.