Where We Are Going Today: ‘El Tacoria’ in Alkhobar

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Updated 19 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘El Tacoria’ in Alkhobar

  • The food itself offers a flavorful journey through a variety of Mexican staples

Located in the bustling Al-Olaya district of Alkhobar, El Tacoria is a restaurant that brings a delightful slice of Mexican cuisine to Saudi Arabia.

With its inviting atmosphere, ample parking and a variety of flavorful dishes, it is an appealing spot for those craving something beyond the usual fare.

Upon arrival, diners are greeted with a warm and vibrant ambiance that echoes the lively spirit of Mexico. A standout feature right away is the ample parking space, something that can often be a hassle in popular areas such as Al-Olaya. This ease of access makes it a great option for a spontaneous dinner or a casual outing with friends.

As for the menu, El Tacoria does not disappoint. The pina colada is a must-try. Refreshing, perfectly balanced between sweetness and the tropical tang of pineapple, it stands out as one of the highlights of the experience and pairs wonderfully with the Mexican-inspired dishes, adding a cool and satisfying contrast.

The food itself offers a flavorful journey through a variety of Mexican staples. The quesadillas, which contain a generous filling of grilled chicken and gooey cheese, strike the perfect balance between crispy and savory. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a dish worth ordering again and again.

For taco lovers, a four-taco combo offers a diverse selection of fillings that includes options such as grilled chicken, ground beef and grilled shrimp. The combination of soft and hard-shell tortillas, accompanied by a spicy kick, provides a range of textures and flavors to enjoy.

In terms of value, El Tacoria’s prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of the portions. The taco combo, for example, comes in at SR59 ($16), while the hearty chicken quesadillas are SR32, both of which offer great value given the generous portions. For more information, check out @eltacoria on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Taste and Tales by Chef Shagufa

AN photo by Sadiya A. Nadeem
Updated 29 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Taste and Tales by Chef Shagufa

  • We shared three platters among the six of us, and needless to say, the portions were generous and the flavors satisfying

Relatively new on the block, Taste and Tales by Chef Shagufa, located in Jeddah’s Al-Rehab district, has been making quite a buzz on social media.

So, on a cool Friday morning at 7:00 a.m., five of my cousins and I decided to visit the restaurant to experience its much-talked-about traditional South Asian breakfast for ourselves.

We ordered the restaurant’s hyped breakfast thali (platter), which included sooji halwa (semolina pudding), kheer (rice pudding), chickpea curry, potato curry, pickles, pooris (fried, fluffy bread), and paranthas (layered flatbread), all served in beautiful copper serveware.

We shared three platters among the six of us, and needless to say, the portions were generous and the flavors satisfying. 

Personally, I enjoyed everything on the platter except the semolina pudding, which I found a little bland for my taste.

For drinks, five of us ordered milk tea, which was fairly good. One of my cousins opted for their famed Pakola lassi and couldn’t stop raving about it. Since she didn’t let any of us sample it, we’ve decided it’s something to try on our next visit.

Our total bill came to SR150 ($40), slightly higher than what nearby restaurants charge for similar breakfast platters. However, the taste, presentation, and overall ambience more than make up for the difference.

Not many South Asian restaurants in Jeddah offer decent dine-in breakfast seating for families, but Taste and Tales stands out. With its simple interiors and modest seating, the space is clean, comfortable, and welcoming. It’s definitely a place I’d visit again with my female friends, cousins, and family.