Llama Cafe, with its whimsical name and minimalistic branding, could have easily leaned into gimmicky novelty, but it instead delivers an experience that feels polished and playful.
The homegrown brand launched in Dammam some years ago and has since expanded across the Eastern Province. We visited the Alkhobar location, the second branch, which opened last year.
Sunlight poured in through massive windows, illuminating the space. The to-go fridge at the entrance was ideal for grabbing sandwiches or salads quickly.
I ordered the Llama iced tea, which features a refreshing hibiscus blend and thankfully contains no trace of actual llama.
Though SR21 ($5) felt steep for the small size, the drink came in a charming, durable cup that was so well made I gladly took it home to wash and reuse.
Food-wise, the SR25 Sahara chicken mirage salad was a standout: Fresh, full of textures and colors with pieces of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, greens, yellow corn and even little bits of toasted nuts.
It was all coated in a light dressing that you drizzle yourself. My favorite part — aside from the deliciousness — was that it was served in a compostable container.
For dessert, I chose the Madrid cheesecake (SR19), which the staff eagerly recommended. It had a golden, slightly caramelized top and a buttery, well-balanced crust that added just the right amount of texture.
Speckled with real vanilla bean, it was creamy and rich in the middle without feeling heavy. It struck that ideal middle ground between airy and indulgent. Definitely worth trying!
I had been trying to cut back my caffeine intake but could not resist trying the seemingly popular V60 drip. I ordered mine iced with Guatemalan beans (SR20), served with perfectly shaped cubes that melted at just the right pace.
A cylinder aquarium situated by the pickup station was peculiar to me. It contained a real fish swimming inside — an oddly soothing mascot for a llama-named cafe.
Up the flight of stairs — I did not notice an elevator — the space was filled with small tables ideal for working. On the day of our visit, a midday and midweek stop, almost every table was occupied with a laptop. Wall plugs were available throughout and the two restrooms were tiny but spotless.
The main floor had plenty of seating, including some directly outside, for those who dared to brave the scorching hot weather to perhaps smoke or work on their tan.
The cafe sells locally baked sourdough bread that is sliced and bagged, and I cannot wait to return to try it.
For more details visit Instagram @llama.cafe.
