Where We Are Going Today: Ghafawat Cafe

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Updated 29 July 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Ghafawat Cafe

  • The food menu is limited, though. While the coffee was decent, the flat white was not great

Ghafawat Cafe in the Kingdom’s capital presents a refreshing concept — private capsules you can book for work, meetings, or simply watching a movie in peace.

Each capsule feels like a first-class airplane seat, complete with a table, TV, and locker for your things.

The setup is ideal for focus or relaxation. The capsules are cozy and equipped with Netflix and Shahid, so you can tailor your time there however you like.

The food menu is limited, though. While the coffee was decent, the flat white was not great. The turkey sandwich was delicious, and the Ghafawat mojito was refreshing.

I also liked the Raffaello, and the cinnabon cakes were enjoyable as well, though the pecan and carrot cakes were average.

The menu would benefit greatly with more snack and meal options.

Prices range from SR20-40 ($5-10), and there is a 50 percent discount on the second hour of the capsule booking, which makes extended stays more appealing.

Overall, Ghafawat Cafe is a great spot to relax after work or the gym.

With thoughtful touches like blankets and a call button for service, it offers an experience I will be trying again, even with the occasional slow service.

 


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.