Where We Are Going Today: M DEE Cafe in Riyadh

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Updated 29 August 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: M DEE Cafe in Riyadh

Riyadh’s cafe scene is booming, but M DEE has carved out its own niche with a mix of style, flavor, and a clear eye for detail. Known for its minimalist branding and playful dessert creations, the cafe has become a go-to spot for those who want more than just a caffeine fix.

The standout here is the V60 coffee. Brewed with precision, it is the kind of cup that makes you to slow down and appreciate each sip. Smooth, balanced, and deeply aromatic, it carries the kind of clarity you expect from a specialty coffee house. For enthusiasts who appreciate hand-pour brewing, this is a must-try in Riyadh.

When it comes to desserts, M DEE shows both creativity and craftsmanship. The berry cheesecake is the highlight, creamy yet light, with the right level of sweetness that lets the fruit shine. The portion is generous enough to share, but you might not want to. It pairs beautifully with the iced V60, striking that perfect balance between tart and smooth. 

The cafe also offers a wide range of trendy sweets, from mini bites to boxed assortments. They photograph as well as they taste, which explains their popularity on Instagram feeds. Yet not every option delivers equally. The tiramisu, for example, feels underwhelming. It leans too heavily on cream, lacks the layered depth that defines a true tiramisu, and the portion is noticeably small compared to expectations.

Service is efficient, and the atmosphere reflects modern Riyadh cafe culture; bright, polished, and designed for both casual meet-ups and solo coffee breaks. It is clear the team has invested in creating a brand identity that matches its culinary ambition.

For the iced V60 and the cheesecake alone, M DEE is worth the stop. While not every dessert hits the mark, the overall experience makes it one of the more exciting cafes to visit in the capital.
 


Where We Are Going Today: Granny’s Cuisine

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Updated 28 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Granny’s Cuisine

  • Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice

Visiting Historic Al-Balad during Ramadan is a cherished ritual for many families in Jeddah.

During the holy month, the area transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration. Strings of lights illuminate the heritage homes, while food stalls serving international cuisines line the courtyards. Families gather outdoors to share iftar in a setting that blends history with festivity.

Yet, the charm comes with a challenge. Securing a table requires arriving early, especially for those hoping to sample a variety of dishes from different stalls while enjoying the lively ambiance.

To avoid the rush, I reserved a table at Granny’s Cuisine, centrally located in Baya’h Square Yard. The restaurant offers a simple open buffet for SR50 ($13) per person, a reasonable price given the setting. 

On arrival, I was relieved to find my table ready, while others were still searching for seating.

Before the call to prayer, traditional Saudi coffee, dates and water were served. The buffet, though modest, offered satisfying homemade flavors. 

Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice. Classic Ramadan favorites such as sambusa and mutabbaq were also available, along with a red-sauce pasta that was acceptable.

The grape leaves stood out, delicately prepared with tamarind, giving them a pleasant tangy note that fans of the dish will appreciate. 

Juices were not included in the buffet price; a mango juice cost an additional SR10, a minor inconvenience. Dessert options featured basbousa and kunafa, while a self-serve coffee corner offered instant coffee and machine-brewed options.

The buffet was set indoors, where historic photographs of Al-Balad and Jeddah added a vintage touch to the decor. Indoor seating is also available for those seeking comfort away from the crowds.

Overall, the experience was enjoyable and well-organized. Granny’s Cuisine is a suitable choice for diners who wish to experience the spirit of Ramadan in Al-Balad without immersing themselves fully in the hustle and bustle of the busy courtyards.