Where We Are Going Today: Whoa Tea & Desserts in Riyadh

Brown sugar dreams — chewy pearls, rich syrup, and that perfect glossy finish. WHOA Tea knows how to do boba right. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 April 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Whoa Tea & Desserts in Riyadh

  • What makes this spot even more fun is the game-friendly atmosphere

If you live in Riyadh and love bubble tea and board games, Whoa Tea is a must-visit. Tucked in Al-Wizarat, this fun, laid-back spot brings together playful energy and some of the best boba in the city — all in one cozy setting.

We tried the brown sugar boba for SR 25 ($6.67), and it was everything you’d want in a classic: rich, creamy, and perfectly chewy pearls with that deep caramelized flavor.

The passionfruit lemon tea was a refreshing contrast — fruity, light, and ideal for hot Riyadh afternoons.

For dessert, the molten cheesecake for SR 23 was warm and gooey on the inside with a rich, slightly tangy center, and the original puff for SR 18 was light, crisp, and subtly sweet — perfect as a snack alongside your drink.

What makes this spot even more fun is the game-friendly atmosphere. They offer a wide variety of board games you can enjoy while sipping your tea, making it a perfect hangout spot for friends or even a casual solo escape.

One downside, though, is that seating can fill up fast, especially in the evenings, so it’s not always easy to find a quiet corner during peak hours.

If you’re a boba lover in Riyadh, Whoa Tea should be on your bucket list.

For more, check their Instagram @whoa_tea.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Maritime’ in Jeddah

Updated 22 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Maritime’ in Jeddah

  • From the soup station, the cauliflower and truffle offering, finished with parmigiano reggiano and a squeeze of lemon, was creamy and satisfying, though slightly mild and would have benefited from stronger seasoning

With cooler breezes and clear skies, a seaside brunch feels especially fitting in Jeddah.

Over the weekend, I visited Maritime at The Jeddah Edition, which offers an international open-buffet brunch on Saturdays, accompanied by views of the Red Sea from the yacht club side.

The salad bar was thoughtfully curated. Standout items included quinoa tabbouleh, smoked salmon with sour cream and capers, and a pesto chicken salad that had a refreshing balance of flavors. It made for a light and enjoyable side.

The main buffet featured a varied selection. The beef tagine with plums impressed with its balance of sweetness and depth, while the Indian tandoori chicken served with spiced rice delivered bold, comforting flavors. A mushroom pasta was appealing in both aroma and presentation.

From the soup station, the cauliflower and truffle offering, finished with parmigiano reggiano and a squeeze of lemon, was creamy and satisfying, though slightly mild and would have benefited from stronger seasoning.

Dessert was a highlight. The spread included an international mix of cakes, mini mille-feuille, tarts and Middle Eastern sweets.

The chocolate ganache tart was rich and indulgent, alongside an Italian-style cream brulee with a coffee twist that stood out for its depth of flavor. The red berries mille-feuille offered a pleasing contrast of crisp pastry and creamy filling, pairing well with a cortado.

The ambience at Maritime is relaxed and inviting.

Outdoor seating offers sunset sea views with live guitar and saxophone performances, while indoor seating provides a quieter but equally comfortable setting. Earthy tones, wooden finishes, greenery and rounded furnishings create a warm atmosphere.

The brunch is priced at SR250 ($67) per person. For more information, visit Instagram @maritimejeddah.