Where We Are Going Today: Al-Seqala Restaurant in Jeddah

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Updated 28 June 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: Al-Seqala Restaurant in Jeddah

  • Moving on to mains, signature dishes like tajin shrimps bechamel and kebab cherry highlight the versatility of seafood and meat, prepared with finesse and served with unique accompaniments

Al-Seqala, nestled in the scenic Obhur area of Jeddah, stands as a beacon for culinary excellence, blending Lebanese and Saudi cuisines with stunning waterfront views.

Established to offer diners a unique fusion of flavors, the restaurant offers a luxurious experience complemented by comfortable amenities and elegant wooden decor.

The menu features a tantalizing array of dishes that cater to seafood aficionados and those seeking innovative culinary delights. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every meticulously crafted dish, from traditional Lebanese favorites to inventive seafood creations.

For starters, guests are tempted with choices such as the bouillabaisse, a harmonious medley of shrimp, calamari, mussels, crab and fish that showcases the bounty of the sea in a rich broth. Alternatively, the creamy shrimp soup offers a velvety indulgence for those seeking a lighter starter.

Cold appetizers, like the seafood fruit salad, combine the freshness of shrimp, calamari, mussels and fish with vibrant fruits and a mustard honey dressing and is a must try, while the shrimp salad presents a savory blend of shrimp, lettuce, cherry tomatoes and balsamic dressing.

Hot appetizers include fattet shrimps and shawarma samak, where marinated fish with tahina sauce and vegetables showcase bold flavors. Chilli shrimps, pan-fried with sweet chili peppers and tomatoes, offer a spicy kick for adventurous diners.

Moving on to mains, signature dishes like tajin shrimps bechamel and kebab cherry highlight the versatility of seafood and meat, prepared with finesse and served with unique accompaniments. The BBQ Oriental section presents a feast of chicken and meat kebabs alongside lamb chops, catering to hearty appetites with robust flavors.

A standout feature of dining at Al-Seqala is the opportunity to choose fresh seafood prepared to perfection, whether grilled, fried or served in rock salt. The restaurant’s dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients ensures that every dish delivers an exceptional culinary experience.

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, dessert options like maamoul pistachio and pain perdu provide decadent choices that promise to leave a lasting impression.

Despite having less attentive and unfriendly staff, Al-Seqala elevates the dining experience with game nights, live music and a variety of entertainment options.

For more information, visit @alseqala_restaurant on Instagram.

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Cortaco – Mexican dish in Riyadh

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Updated 26 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Cortaco – Mexican dish in Riyadh

  • Cortaco is a homey hole in the wall that almost gives you a shock when you walk in

We’re always looking for the next best Mexican spot to obsess over because, let’s face it, no one can deny the deliciousness of a simple, well-made taco — and we think we’ve finally found it. 

Cortaco is a homey hole in the wall that almost gives you a shock when you walk in.

With its ambiguous exterior, featuring a bar window for outdoor seating, you’d have no clue you were walking into your grandmother’s home. The interior is adorned with vintage decorative pillows, lace and floral curtains, soft lighting, and antique tiles, making every corner of the place an interesting spot to observe. 

Their menu is concise but packed with flavor. After we were served complimentary chips with guacamole and salsa, we started with their signature fries, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within, and the “Frideds,” cauliflower pieces fried with green peppers and jalapeno. 

Their tacos are the main star of the show, however. We opted for their signature birria tacos, which are served with lettuce, tomato, cabbage, and jalapeno on the side. The birria sauce is thicker than we’ve found at other restaurants — a sign it’s made right. 

Their quesadillas are also a great choice, filled with cheese, onions, corn, and grilled peppers. A great thing about Cortaco is that they’re willing to substitute any dish with a vegetarian option, so if you’re plant-based or looking for a healthier option, any meat can be replaced with cauliflower or vegetables.

Another choice for mains is their burrito, which comes in either chicken or beef. The tortilla bread is grilled on the outside, which gives it a crispier texture and smokier flavor. 

Although not a Mexican dish, they also serve chicken and beef Philly cheese sandwiches.

There’s a refreshing selection of soft drinks from their bodega-style fridge, as well as an interesting range of cocktails. We recommend the Jamaica, a blend of hibiscus tea, rose, apple, and berries. 

Overall, the ambience and quality of food really sold us — not to mention the affordability. It’s going to be our spot this winter to have a cozy catch-up with friends over comfort food.