Where We Are Going Today: Balalet restaurant in Al-Khobar

For more details check their Instagram @balaleet.sa. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: Balalet restaurant in Al-Khobar

Tucked away in the heart of Al-Shamalia district in Al-Khobar, Balalet restaurant offers more than just a meal — it presents a cultural escape.

Specializing in tea and the traditional dishes it is named after, this hidden gem is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Saudi Arabian flavors with a modern twist. 

The warm and inviting decor sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The space is a harmonious blend of traditional wooden elements, soft rugs, and dim lighting that gives it a comfortable atmosphere.

The charming staircase and tasteful local art further add to the cultural vibe, creating an ambiance that feels like home.

Balalet’s menu has a variety of choices. The chapati with eggs and cheese is a highlight, offering a comforting combination of softness and crispness in every bite.

A standout item for those seeking a playful twist is the chapati filled with Chips Oman and cheese, an unexpectedly delightful blend of crunch and nostalgia.

The star of the menu is, of course, the restaurant’s namesake — balalet. This dish, a savory-sweet mix of vermicelli noodles with a traditional flavor profile, hits all the right notes.

Pair it with their carefully brewed hibiscus tea, which strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, and you have yourself a meal that provides comfort and excitement.

The only drawback is the limited parking space; finding a spot in this bustling neighborhood can be challenging, especially during peak hours, so it is worth planning ahead to avoid frustration. Once inside, however, the experience more than compensates for the inconvenience. 

Prices at Balalet are reasonable, making it a good option for casual diners and those looking to enjoy a special meal with family or friends. 

For more details check their Instagram @balaleet.sa.


Where We Are Going Today: Chicken Industry in Qatif

Updated 06 March 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Chicken Industry in Qatif

If you were to ask me what the perfect weekend treat-yourself meal is, my first choice would be fried chicken, followed by fried chicken, followed by a burger (but make it fried chicken).

One of my favorite spots for this delicious indulgence is Chicken Industry in Qatif, which, over the past few years, has become a hometown classic.

They also opened another branch in Olaya, Alkhobar.

The great thing about Chicken Industry is that you really cannot go wrong with any item on their menu; the burgers, broasted, twister, tenders, and nuggets are all very well-seasoned, juicy, and crispy.

All their menu items are available in spicy and mild options.

They have a few burger selections.

The original chicken sandwich, which comes with American cheese, pickles, and their signature industry sauce (a must to get on the side with any order), is their take on the classic Popeyes/Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich.

For the big kahuna, the chicken is so juicy and flavorful with wonderfully crispy skin that my mouth is watering just thinking about it. (Instagram: @chickenindustry.ksa)

If you want to try a different type of sauce, you could give the black pepper buttermilk sandwich a go — a good option for those who like a balance of flavors between creamy and slightly zingy.

My go-to, however, is the chicken zinger, which comes with American cheese, mayonnaise, and lettuce — a no-fuss burger that has all the right toppings, sauce, and seasoning for the chicken.

Although, I would appreciate the option to add tomato as well for a little something fresh in there.

All of the Chicken Industry burgers come with a soft brioche bun. No notes; it’s a great bun.

The twister, made with two crispy tenders, is also a crowd favorite and comes in a few different options: the original with mild sauce, the fiery twister with spicy sauce, the classic with pepper mayo, and the spicy twister with pepper mayo as well.

Whether you do not want to commit to the full bun burger or just prefer a tortilla, the twister is a great option to either accompany or be the star of your meal.

Now onto the big kahuna: the broasted. If you really want to indulge, this is the option for you.

It comes with four pieces, either spicy or mild (trust me, get the spicy), and is served with garlic sauce on the side.

Although nothing compares to the Chicky Fry broasted, this one is a very close second. The chicken is so juicy and flavorful with wonderfully crispy skin; my mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Their nuggets are good, though not amazing — fun to snack on, but I wouldn’t call them a necessity and definitely not as good as their tenders or other options.

And I must say the Chicken Industry French fries could use some improvement; not the greatest texture or flavor, just sort of meh. I will continue to order them because at the end of the day, they are fries, and they’re alright. Besides, no fried chicken meal is complete without fries.

And do not forget to get the sauces on the side: the cheese, the garlic, the industry mild or spicy, buffalo, barbecue, and buttermilk, depending on your preference. They all complement the meal very well.