Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh

Jordanian Mansaf, Maqluba, or the Grape leaves with Moza, are the most highly ordered items on the menu at Al-Kofeia. (AN photo Haifa Alshammari)
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Updated 07 October 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Al-Kofeia — Palestinian cuisine in Riyadh

  • The waiter recommended I try the Jordanian mansaf, maqluba, or the grape leaves with moza — the most popular items on the menu

If you plan to dine at Al-Kofeia, be sure to take the bus or Uber — finding a parking space at this restaurant can be challenging, especially on weekends or during busy periods.

Located in the heart of Al-Tahlia Street, the restaurant serves mainly Palestinian cuisine, as well as a few other Middle Eastern dishes, including Jordanian mansaf and Saudi kabsa.

When I entered, I immediately noticed the decor. Although the Palestinian identity is clearly evident, the interior seems a bit cluttered, with random pieces of art, quotes, and signs.




Although the Palestinian identity is clearly evident at this location through the decorations hanging from the ceiling, for example, the interior seems forced and cluttered with random pieces, such as paintings, quotes, and signs. (AN photo by Haifa Alshammari)

The waiter recommended I try the Jordanian mansaf, maqluba, or the grape leaves with moza — the most popular items on the menu. 

It was my first taste of mansaf, and I had to take a sip of water with almost every mouthful. The spices were perfectly measured, but the dish was salty, mushy overall, and lacked texture.

The grape leaves, however, were delicious and well-cooked.

Considering the presentation and range of ingredients, many of the items on the menu were quite expensive. For example, the mansaf cost SR76 ($20), much higher than usual rates.

A pleasant surprise was the availability of a prayer room and a breastfeeding room for women, which shows consideration for customers. Al-Kofeia clearly welcomes all family members.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Jackie Restaurant in Riyadh

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Updated 07 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Jackie Restaurant in Riyadh

  • For mains, the wagyu burger was the table’s winner, juicy and well-seasoned with a soft bun that held everything together without falling apart

Jackie Restaurant at the St. Regis in Via Riyadh is one of those places that immediately gives you the sense that you are in for a well-curated evening. The setting feels polished and modern, with warm lighting and a lively atmosphere that would work well for a relaxed dinner or a more celebratory night out.

I visited on a busy evening, yet the service remained smooth. The staff welcomed us with genuine warmth and walked us through the menu. Their suggestions felt natural, not rehearsed, which made choosing easier. Jackie clearly puts effort into both flavor and presentation, and that becomes obvious once the food arrives.

We started with the tuna tartare, which was fresh, bright, and layered with citrus notes that kept it light. The truffle fries were another early favorite, crisp and fragrant with just enough truffle to elevate without overwhelming. The burrata with roasted tomatoes was also a standout, creamy and balanced with a sweet acidity from the slow-roasted tomatoes.

For mains, the wagyu burger was the table’s winner, juicy and well-seasoned with a soft bun that held everything together without falling apart. The black truffle pasta was rich and aromatic, though slightly heavier than expected. The grilled sea bass offered a cleaner, more delicate option and was cooked to a perfect flaky texture.

Dessert was a highlight, especially the chocolate fondant. It arrived warm, with a molten center and a scoop of vanilla ice cream that tied everything together. The lemon tart was another pleasant surprise, sharp enough to contrast the richer dishes.

If there is one drawback, it would be the pricing. While the quality is strong, some dishes, such as the truffle pasta, feel a bit too expensive for what they offer. It makes Jackie feel more like an occasional treat rather than a weekly spot.

Overall, with good service, memorable dishes, and a refined atmosphere, it is easy to see why Jackie has become a popular choice.