Where We Are Going Today: Umq Coffee

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Updated 24 October 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Umq Coffee

  • It is reliable, unpretentious and proudly Saudi, and that shows in every cup

Few Saudi Arabia coffee brands have managed to build such steady loyalty across cities as has Umq Coffee.

With branches in Alkhobar, Dammam, Riyadh and Al-Ahsa, the brand has become a familiar stop for coffee lovers looking for consistency, quality, and fair prices — three things that are rarely found together.

You will love the Ethiopian iced V60. It is smooth, rich and full-bodied, with deep chocolatey undertones and a gentle, lingering sweetness.

The clarity of the brew allows the beans’ natural profile to shine through without any bitterness, giving each sip a clean and satisfying depth — making it perfect for hot afternoons and late-night drives.

You will appreciate how their flavor remains consistent across branches, a sign that Umq takes its roasting and preparation seriously.

Beyond the coffee, the menu includes breakfast and dessert options that are decently priced but fall short in quality compared to the drinks. The food is not bad, just not memorable, it is the kind of thing you order for convenience, not craving.

The coffee, however, is a different story: always freshly brewed, well-balanced, and undeniably the highlight of the experience.

Their accessibility is another plus. Having branches in multiple cities means you can count on finding Umq almost anywhere, which adds to its charm as a truly local brand.

It is reliable, unpretentious and proudly Saudi, and that shows in every cup.

If you are looking for consistent specialty coffee at a reasonable price, Umq is an easy recommendation. It is not about luxury or hype but familiarity done right.

For more information, check their Instagram: @umqcoffee.
 


Where We Are Going Today: The Terrace in Jeddah

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Updated 31 January 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: The Terrace in Jeddah

  • Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova

The Terrace by The Good Butcher, overseen by food entrepreneur and chef Basma El-Khereiji, is a new seaside spot that combines casual dining with live music and pop-up events.

Located next to Movenpick Jeddah Al-Nawras in Ash Shati, the setting offers an open view of the water, making it a relaxed place to spend an afternoon or evening.

The menu focuses heavily on burgers, with options ranging from the double and triple smashed cheeseburgers, to the more elaborate truffle and wagyu burgers.

I tried a selection of the smashed burgers and found the beef to be well cooked and the seasoning balanced, though the triple cheeseburger felt slightly heavy with all the toppings combined.

The crispy chicken burger and chicken Caesar burger provided alternatives to red meat, with straightforward preparation and familiar flavors. Sides such as parmesan and truffle fries, paired with sauces like cheddar, BBQ and truffle mayo, complemented the mains.

Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova. I tried the cardamom creme brulee and the pavlova. The creme brulee had a smooth, creamy texture, with a delicate hint of cardamom that was noticeable, and the caramelized top added a satisfying contrast.

The pavlova offered crisp meringue with a soft interior, paired with a light mascarpone cream and fresh berries, providing a mix of textures in each bite. Both desserts were consistent with their descriptions and well prepared.

One of the standout options on the beverage menu is the spicy bull heart, a tomato-based drink that combines tomato juice with lemon, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of salt and pepper.

The menu also includes gin and tonics with a choice of tonics, as well as signature cocktails like wooden smoke house and sunny land, each bringing a unique combination of ingredients and infusions.

The beverage menu introduces new and unexpected flavors, encouraging guests to explore and try something they may never have tasted before, all while enjoying the seaside setting and relaxed ambiance.

Check @theterrace.sa for more information.