Where We Are Going Today: ‘Speranza cafe’ in Jeddah

For more information visit @speranzacafe on Instagram. (Screenshot/@speranzacafe)
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Updated 05 February 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Speranza cafe’ in Jeddah

“You wanted cake? You got cake. Now, eat it!” If you are familiar with the film “Matilda,” you probably remember the iconic scene where a student is forced to devour an enormous, ultra-rich chocolate cake as punishment. Now, imagine experiencing that same chocolatey indulgence, but this time, purely for pleasure.

Speranza Cafe in Jeddah’s Al-Safa district offers the Matilda Cake and brings that unforgettable moment to life, minus the scary principal. Instead, you will be treated to a decadent, multi-layered chocolate masterpiece that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

I had the pleasure of trying it myself, and let me tell you, it was a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Pairing it with a latte made the experience even better. The coffee came with two complimentary mandarin biscuits, adding a zesty contrast to all that rich chocolate.

Speranza is spacious with two indoor floors and a charming rooftop area, exuding a modern-bohemian vibe that is both cosy and stylish.

The Arabic music selection adds to the warm, inviting ambience, making it the spot for a catch-up with friends.

And if chocolate is not your thing, Speranza’s menu has plenty more to offer including croissants, Danish pastries, pistachio and raspberry cakes, tiramisu and banoffee cake.

Coffee lovers will appreciate the giant cold brew prepared right in front of you.

With affordable prices and an experience worth every bite, I will be coming back for that cake.

For more information visit @speranzacafe on Instagram.


Where We Are Going Today: Karak Haala in Jeddah

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Updated 24 January 2026
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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.