Where We Are Going Today: Seven

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AN photo by Jasmine Bager
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AN photo by Jasmine Bager
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AN photo by Jasmine Bager
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Updated 14 October 2023
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Where We Are Going Today: Seven

ALKHOBAR: A popular brunch spot that temporarily shuttered for renovations and rebranding recently opened its doors again in Alkhobar, offering old favorites and several new items.

Gone are the cat paintings scattered all around the space and the quirky patterned floor. Now, Seven has a fresh coat of paint, new light fixtures and a more polished ambience overall.

Their signature avocado toast also got a revamp. For SR46 ($12), you can get a “deconstructed” version, with the same ingredients, but one that requires you to assemble the dish yourself.

As a fan of the traditional Seven avocado toast, I was reluctant to try this updated version, but it was actually more enjoyable.

The beetroot hummus is now served in a small container, and the smashed guacamole, pumpkin seeds and pico de gallo sauce placed in a separate bowl.

The poached egg, which is made to order — so you can select whether you want it runny or well done — is delicately placed on top.

We asked for our egg to be cooked medium. The dish is finished off with some fresh greens and grilled sourdough bread on the side.

We also tried the new Khobar Mule drink, a refreshing lime juice with ginger ale. The only issue we had was that the glass was mostly filled with ice so we were left wanting more. We made up for it by ordering a hot latte, also for SR25.

The new menu has a wide variety of items, including a lavender lemonade drink, a truffle potato side and a philly steak sandwich.

The morning tacos, made with quail eggs and feta cheese, is sure to be a favorite, as well as the acai bowl, which is packed with fresh bananas, homemade granola, fresh berries and peanut butter.

Also, a whole selection of freshly baked flat breads have been added, including muhammara zaatar and crunchy falafel.

Many of Seven’s popular dishes remain, such as chicken and waffle, the club sandwich, and bombay omelet cooked with spices and a side of chutney.

The shakshuka is back, too, as well as the honeycomb french toast.

The birthday hot cake returns, made with fluffy pan-cooked “Aramco cake,” with cream cheese icing and a crunchy crust.

The eatery is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, visit Seven’s Instagram page @EatAtSeven.


Where We Are Going Today: Groovy cafe in AlUla

Updated 02 March 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Groovy cafe in AlUla

  • The brand’s steady expansion reflects its growing popularity across the Kingdom, and this latest outpost feels well placed in the heart of the action

One of the current trendy cafes in AlUla seems to be Groovy in Old Town.

Tucked in a corner among the winding lanes and stone buildings, it has become a notable stop for both visitors and locals looking for a caffeine fix with a view.

Originally from Riyadh, Groovy opened in Jeddah some time later and AlUla is the newer branch, opened about six months ago.

The brand’s steady expansion reflects its growing popularity across the Kingdom, and this latest outpost feels well placed in the heart of the action.

On a recent visit to bustling Old Town, people were happily sitting or standing as they sipped drinks and chatted away.

Some sat in the semi-indoor/outdoor space, others huddled in small groups, phones occasionally lifted for photos or to watch a humorous video.

The vibe was warm and friendly as the cooler breeze swept across.

I tried the coffee and it was good enough, arriving quickly despite the steady stream of customers waiting in line. But I cannot say it stood out; I enjoyed the location and the space itself most of all.

I went during the day and then later at night; each had a fun energy. It would fill up fast and then empty just as quickly.

Its turkey makdous sandwich goes for SR22 ($5.86), a burrata sandwich for SR26, while spicy tuna or halloumi is SR20.

But the establishment is perhaps more famous for its French toast, smothered in a blanket of sticky sweetness. It is dense and decadent, leaning unapologetically into indulgence and clearly designed for those with a sweet tooth.

It is described as “The French toast house. French toast that feels like home.” That makes sense.

While I could not necessarily detect groovy synergy, as its name would imply, it is definitely a lively spot and I enjoyed the atmosphere.

For more details, visit its Instagram @groovysa.