Where We Are Going Today: Maiz AlKhozama – Saudi cuisine in Riyadh

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Hashi Steak. (Supplied)
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Lamb Mantu. (Supplied)
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Seafood Sayadyah. (Supplied)
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Maiz Riyadh. (Supplied)
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Updated 07 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Maiz AlKhozama – Saudi cuisine in Riyadh

  • The crispy prawns, though artfully plated and perfectly cooked, deliver a more familiar flavor profile

Set against the historic charm of Bujairi Terrace, Maiz AlKhozama stands out for its fusion of elevated Saudi cuisine and rich cultural design.

The interior impresses instantly, with elegant arches, warm lighting, and intricate patterns that nod to traditional Saudi aesthetics while maintaining a modern sense of luxury.

Even with its outdoor seating option it is a space that feels rooted in heritage yet confidently contemporary. 

While prices lean high, each dish reflects precision and purpose, creating a dining experience that feels curated rather than casual. 

The meal begins gracefully with the lamb mantu, perhaps the most memorable of the starters. Steamed dumplings filled with seasoned lamb rest under a silky spicy sauce.

The combination of tangy, savory, and subtle citrus notes is layered and deeply satisfying. This dish defines what Maiz does best: honoring tradition with elegant restraint. 

The crispy prawns, though artfully plated and perfectly cooked, deliver a more familiar flavor profile.

The cucumber and habak add freshness, while lemon aioli lends a citrus brightness. Pleasant overall, but lacking the spark found in the mantu. 

Among the mains, the seafood sayadieh is exemplary. A rich composition of grilled hamour and sbara sits atop fragrant rice, brought together by a luscious tahini sauce.

When paired with the sauce, a tamarind-forward blend of onion and garlic, the dish reaches new depth, balancing sweetness, acidity, and earthiness beautifully. 

In contrast, the hashi steak (camel tenderloin from Al-Kharj Farm) is intriguing but divisive. Cooked well and beautifully presented, it showcases local ingredients confidently, though its distinct flavor may not appeal to every palate. 

Maiz AlKhozama ultimately delivers on its promise. This is a restaurant that celebrates Saudi culinary tradition with refined execution, thoughtful flavor pairings, and a setting that mirrors the country’s evolving identity.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Adani Bar in Jeddah

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Updated 13 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Adani Bar in Jeddah

  • The two-way cheese sandwiches, paired with either strawberry or blueberry jam, play on sweet and savory contrasts

Located in Al-Rawdah, Adani Bar is a small cafe founded on Yemeni tea and coffee traditions, with a menu that mixes the familiar with personal interpretation.

The focus here is clearly on Adani tea. The classic version blends milk with tea and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, cloves and habaq. It is served hot or cold and the balance remains steady in both forms.

Other drinks lean toward fusion, including the London, which combines Yemeni Haraz coffee with cinnamon paste, milk and maple syrup, and ya caramela, in which Adani tea is paired with a Haraz espresso shot and caramel sauce.

These drinks show experimentation, though some combinations feel busier than necessary and may not appeal to those who prefer simpler tastes.

Food options are limited, but show some variety nevertheless. Sandwiches such as the ultimate tuna — with sun-dried tomatoes, olives and tahini mayo — and the establishment’s turkey offering — a regional take on turkey and mozzarella — are filling without being heavy.

The two-way cheese sandwiches, paired with either strawberry or blueberry jam, play on sweet and savory contrasts.

And do not miss the lamb kebab, a new menu addition served both as a plate and a sandwich and served with yogurt, tahini and accompaniments that stay close to traditional flavors.

Desserts follow a similar approach. I tried the basboosa with Adani ice cream, which connected well with the cafe’s core theme. I also tried dibs and tahini brownies, both of which were rich and satisfying, boasting layered elements that made for generous portions.