Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Jeddah
Discover the 7 best local and traditional foods to try in Jeddah. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Mandi
Mandi is a traditional Arabian dish made of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of spices. The dish is slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and is often served on a large platter, making it perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Mandi is a staple in Saudi households and is often served during festive occasions and gatherings.
Where to try it
Kabsa
Kabsa is a spiced rice dish commonly enjoyed across the Arabian Peninsula, featuring rice cooked with meat and a mix of spices. It's often garnished with fried onions and served with a side of salad or yogurt.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Kabsa is considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia and reflects the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Where to try it
Jasheed
Jasheed is a hearty dish made from shredded meat and rice, often cooked with a variety of spices and served with a rich broth. It is usually enjoyed with flatbread or rice.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
This dish is popular among the locals for its comforting and satisfying nature, especially during colder months.
Where to try it
Baklava
Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. It's a popular dessert throughout the Middle East, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
Baklava is a symbol of hospitality and is often served during celebrations and special occasions.
Where to try it
Kunafa
Kunafa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or nuts. It's sweet, rich, and decadent, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
Kunafa is especially popular during Ramadan and is often enjoyed at iftar gatherings.
Where to try it
Qamar al-Din Juice
Qamar al-Din is a popular apricot juice made from dried apricots, water, and sugar. It's refreshing and often served during Ramadan, fitting perfectly with the hot climate of Jeddah.
Ingredients
Best Time
during Ramadan or anytime
Cultural Significance
This drink is a traditional favorite during the fasting month of Ramadan, symbolizing hospitality and refreshment.
Where to try it
Sambusa
Sambusa are savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, typically enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. They are deep-fried until golden and crispy, making them a favorite street food option.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time or iftar
Cultural Significance
Sambusa is commonly served during Ramadan at iftar, symbolizing breaking the fast with a delightful treat.