For lovers of the brew looking to go beyond their daily latte, Hjeen Roasters and Cafe in Riyadh offers an experience that celebrates the craft behind every cup.
Founded in Saudi Arabia in 2016, the specialty brand sources beans from coffee-growing regions around the world and roasts them locally to create distinctive flavor profiles.
I visited their Al-Nahda branch and was immediately struck by its calm and inviting atmosphere. The minimalist interior, warm lighting, and quiet setting make it an ideal place to work, study, or simply enjoy a peaceful break from the city’s bustle.
The staffers are friendly and knowledgeable about beans and brewing methods.
Instead of ordering coffee, I decided to try the iced tea breeze. The drink arrived with a fragrant aroma that raised my expectations, but the taste fell a little short.
It leaned more toward a sweet fruit juice than tea. I would have preferred a stronger tea base with the sweetness dialed back to create a more balanced drink.
Fortunately, Hjeen’s coffee lived up to its reputation. After my visit, I brewed the roastery’s Laden beans at home using a V60 pour-over. The result was clean, balanced, and full of nuanced flavors that showcased the quality of the beans.
I am quite particular when it comes to specialty coffee, so I do not say this lightly: It was genuinely one of the better coffees I have brewed, and one I would happily buy again.
Another highlight is Hjeen’s retail section, which is stocked with brewing equipment, including French presses, V60 drippers, filters, servers, grinders, and other coffee accessories.
For those looking to deepen their appreciation of coffee, Hjeen offers a one-hour coffee cupping session for SR90 ($24). Suitable for beginners and intermediate enthusiasts, it introduces participants to international cupping standards, teaches how to evaluate coffee using all five senses, and includes tastings of beans from different countries.
Participants also learn to distinguish between classic chocolate and nutty notes and brighter fruity profiles, helping them better understand their own coffee preferences.
Whether you are shopping for brewing gear or simply looking to enjoy a thoughtfully roasted cup of coffee, Hjeen is worth checking out.
