Where We Are Going Today: Jareesh Chocolate in Riyadh

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Jareesh Chocolate is not overwhelming or gimmicky; instead, it feels like a respectful blend of heritage and modern taste. (Supplied)
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Jareesh Chocolate is not overwhelming or gimmicky; instead, it feels like a respectful blend of heritage and modern taste. (Supplied)
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Updated 12 October 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Jareesh Chocolate in Riyadh

  • The jareesh adds a nutty, earthy undertone that balances nicely with the richness of the white chocolate

RIYADH: If you are in Riyadh and want to try something completely different, visit Jareesh Chocolate.

This new creation is the result of a collaboration between food artist Omar Sartawi and Diplomat Sweets, and it will immediately catch your attention — Jareesh, one of Saudi Arabia’s oldest and most traditional dishes, combined with chocolate? 

The first bite will honestly surprise you. The chocolate itself is smooth and sweet but then comes the twist: little bursts of texture from the jareesh that creates a playful, crackling sensation in your mouth. It is both strange and exciting, a mix of familiar flavors with a completely new texture. That “pop” is what makes the whole experience memorable, giving it a unique character.

The jareesh adds a nutty, earthy undertone that balances nicely with the richness of the white chocolate. It is not overwhelming or gimmicky; instead, it feels like a respectful blend of heritage and modern taste. This will appeal to people who enjoy trying something bold and different but still want it to be enjoyable rather than experimental for the sake of it.

Overall, Jareesh Chocolate is a successful attempt at reimagining tradition through something as simple as a chocolate bar. It is unusual, playful, and definitely worth trying at least once.

The price is 55 Saudi riyals (about $14.50), which feels slightly pricey for its size, but considering the concept and craftsmanship, it is justified because of its specialty appeal.

You can find it at all Diplomat Sweets stores in Riyadh, but you can also order it online. For more information check their Instagram: @diplomat_sweets


 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘The Roof’ at the Jeddah Edition Hotel

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Updated 08 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘The Roof’ at the Jeddah Edition Hotel

  • I made my way to the mocktail bar, where the menu featured several options

With the first hint of winter settling over Jeddah, rooftop spaces across the city are gradually coming back to life after the long, humid summer.

Among them is The Roof at the Jeddah Edition Hotel, where I was recently invited to experience the atmosphere, food offerings, and evening setting.

The moment I stepped onto the rooftop, the scene carried a familiar coastal warmth, comfortable and understated yet framed by the luxury the hotel is known for. On one side, the Formula One circuit curves in view, while the city skyline and the Jeddah Yacht Club stretch outward, catching a beautiful sunset that softened the horizon and reminded me of why the city’s rooftops feel most alive at this time of year.

I made my way to the mocktail bar, where the menu featured several options. I chose the passionfruit blend — cold, tangy, and lightly sweet. The presentation was good, with a dried orange garnish and a small paper straw. 

The soundtrack of the evening was shaped by the hotel’s resident DJ, who alternated between Arabic and Western melodies with live percussion, pairing well with the cool breeze drifting across the terrace.

I sampled mini burgers, tacos, and a mushroom-and-onion pasta from the live station. Later, after meeting a friend, we shared dessert, churros paired with a latte, while sitting near the pool. The water was inviting, though the evening wasn’t quite cool enough for a swim.

The Roof has SR150 ($40) minimum spend per person starting from 6:00 p.m.