Where We Are Going Today: The Matcha Cup in Alkhobar

Short Url
Updated 19 September 2025
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: The Matcha Cup in Alkhobar

ALKHOBAR:  The Matcha Cup in Alkhobar is a dream come true for matcha lovers.

This spot specializes in matcha drinks, and you can taste the quality in every sip. The matcha is rich, flavorful, and perfectly frothed, making it smooth and velvety with just the right amount of creaminess. It is clear they use premium matcha powder, and that really elevates the experience.

One of the things visitors love about The Matcha Cup is the variety of milk options they offer. The range of options makes it easy to customize your drink exactly the way you like it. The cup design and overall branding are also stunning; minimal, chic, and Instagram-worthy, adding to the whole experience of ordering from them.

The setup is neither a full cafe nor a drive-thru. You have to park, get out of the car, and place your order. Considering how simple the concept is, it would be amazing if they at least offered car-side service, like other specialty trucks do, so you do not have to step out just to grab a quick matcha.

In terms of options, the menu is focused and does not have too many extras, but honestly, that works in their favor. By staying dedicated to matcha and keeping the concept simple, they maintain a very clear identity and deliver on quality. This could easily become one of the go-to spots in Alkhobar for anyone craving good matcha on the go.

For more information check their Instagram: @thematchacup.


 


Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia announces final wave of restaurants

Updated 15 December 2025
Follow

Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia announces final wave of restaurants

DUBAI: The Michelin Guide in Saudi Arabia on Monday unveiled the final wave of restaurants in its three-part rollout, with three new Bib Gourmands awarded to restaurants in Riyadh, and one each in Jeddah and AlUla.

A total of 52 restaurants, spanning across Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla, make up the Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection, with 11 establishments earning the Bib Gourmand distinction.

The Bib Gourmand award highlights restaurants within the selection which offer good quality food at an affordable price, whereas the Michelin Selected restaurants are noted for the high standard of their cooking and consistency. It’s an endorsement that they’re worth visiting, aligned with the guide’s professional standards.

In Riyadh, the newly awarded Bib Gourmand restaurants include Lebanese eatery Em Sherif Café, local favorite Najd Village, and Persian-inspired Sasani. 

Jeddah’s new Bob Gourmand awardee is Samia’s Dish, known for its Hijazi classics.

And, finally, in AlUla, the Bib Gourmand was awarded to Tofareya, a local favorite in a charming village house at the foot of AlUla’s fort, serving authentic Saudi dishes.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, said in a statement: “Michelin Inspectors enjoyed dining everywhere whether humble village houses steeped in heritage to chic contemporary spaces that celebrate modern design. The country’s tables showcase a rich mix of influences, blending Saudi roots with Levantine warmth, Peruvian flair, and international sophistication. This diversity reflects a nation proud of its culture yet open to the world.”

The wave of announcements mark a milestone in the Kingdom’s evolving culinary landscape.

Poullennec spoke to Arab News in Paris in October the future of Saudi Arabia’s food scene. “When we are talking about Saudi, we still have to consider that it’s an emerging both gastronomic and hospitality destination … the second step … is to see more independently run and smaller properties blossom.”