Where We Are Going Today: Black Knight Coffee Roasters

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Adham blend: Rich, full-bodied, and naturally sweet, with clear notes of honey, caramel, and nuts. (X: @bkcoffeessa)
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Morning ritual: brewing Adham from Black Knight. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
3 / 3
Adham on ice: Full flavor, no bitterness, just pure balance. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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Updated 26 October 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Black Knight Coffee Roasters

Black Knight has managed to strike a rare balance in Saudi Arabia’s growing coffee scene: a brand that feels both accessible and refined. Established in 2018, it has become one of the most recognizable local names in specialty coffee, known for blends that are bold without being bitter, and distinct without losing their smoothness.

Among their offerings, the Adham blend stands out as one of the best I’ve tried. It’s a coffee that doesn’t rely on complexity to impress; instead, it delivers depth through precision. The flavor is rich, full-bodied, and naturally sweet, with clear notes of honey, caramel, and nuts. What I like most is that it manages to stay clean and balanced, there’s no sharp acidity or unpleasant aftertaste, just a steady, rounded finish that lingers in a pleasant way. Whether brewed hot or over ice, Adham holds its character perfectly.

The price point is fair, especially considering the quality and consistency of the roast. It’s the kind of everyday specialty coffee that feels premium without pushing you to overspend. On the other hand, their Ronaldo blend offers a beautiful flavor profile as well but sits on the higher end of the price range — delicious, but harder to justify for regular use. 

Black Knight products are widely available, I usually order their beans through Ninja App or find them at local specialty retailers like Modern Supply, and they’re also available online for direct purchase.

What Black Knight has done well is create a brand that feels distinctly Saudi but can compete with international roasters. The attention to detail, quality control, and flavor design make it clear that this is more than just another local brand, it’s a confident player shaping how specialty coffee is perceived in the Kingdom.

For more information, check their Instagram: @bkcoffeessa


 


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.