Where We Are Going Today: Ashwag restaurant in Jeddah
Ashwag’s cozy atmosphere offers comfort and privacy, making it a perfect spot for families
Updated 28 April 2025
Nada Hameed
If you are craving comforting Turkish flavors in a cozy, family-friendly setting, Ashwag restaurant in Jeddah is the place to go.
Since 1975, Ashwag has been a favorite for families seeking authentic Turkish food in Jeddah and Makkah. For many of us who grew up in Jeddah, it holds a special place in our hearts.
The menu features traditional dishes including mixed grills, juicy shish tawook, shawarma platters, meat with eggplant, and more.
My top pick is the Iskender meat: tender shawarma-style cuts over soft Turkish bread soaked in ghee, topped with tomato sauce, and served with fresh, creamy yogurt. It is a dish that brings back weekend family memories.
Ashwag’s cozy atmosphere offers comfort and privacy, making it a perfect spot for families. The decor blends vintage charm with a classic feel, creating a warm and welcoming vibe.
For dessert, try their baklava, sutlac (rice pudding), kunafa, caramel pudding, and basbousa. All pair wonderfully with Turkish tea to finish your meal.
With Turkish pies, rich tajines, and plenty of vegetarian options, Ashwag offers a great balance of tradition and variety. There is something for everyone.
For more details, check Instagram @ashwag_restaurant.
Where We Are Going Today: Lady Finger Slow Bar in Riyadh
Updated 26 December 2025
Tamara Aboalsaud
RIYADH: A comfortable little spot in Al-Mutamarat, Lady Finger Slow Bar has quickly become one of my favorite coffee spots in Riyadh.
The interior is calm and decorated with a maroon, beige, black and white palette with little pops of color here and there.
The space is open and bright without being too harsh, and the outdoor seating underneath the columns is perfect cozy hangout space in the winter.
Their coffee is, of course, fantastic, whether you get black, V60, Americano, or any milk variation — my personal favorite is the flat white because the espresso to milk ratio is just ideal.
Lady Finger Slow Bar in Al Mutamarat offers all the coffee classics in exceptional quality. (@ladyfinger.slowbar on Instagram)
Coconut and almond alternative milk options are also available, in addition to lactose-free, low-fat and full fat.
I would also recommend trying the coffee of the day, a daily rotation of different beans for those who love to test out new coffee flavors.
Lady Finger is also definitely famous for their desserts, with people constantly grabbing a cup of tiramisu, Oreo pudding, or banana pudding from their fridge all day as they are coming and going. The banana pudding is a crowd favorite; it is creamy with a balanced sweetness that makes it delicious.
During the day, the cafe also serves a breakfast menu complete with a selection of classic sandwiches, eggs and pancakes, or brioche for a sweet breakfast option.
A small and cozy yet open and comfortable interior, Lady Finger is perfect for both social and work ocassions. (@ladyfinger.slowbar on Instagram)
I have to say the turkey sandwich is just OK; the fillings and the bread were great but I would have liked a different sauce that was less citrusy.
The eggs with sourdough, pancakes, and club sandwich are all solid choices for your breakfast or mid-day meal — and the tuna sandwich is taking up space in my mind so I have to try it the next time I go.
Overall, Lady Finger is a wonderful place to relax, catch up with some friends, and get some work done while enjoying a great cup of coffee and maybe a little something sweet one the side.
I also have to give it to the servers at this spot. They are very friendly and accommodating, and they only enhance the welcoming and comfortable vibe inside the cafe.
Take advantage of this beautiful weather we have been having and grab a seat outside with a cup of hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, and decadent chocolate sauce to really feel the warmth of the season.
