Saudi cuisine has blossomed onto a lively scene, attracting an increasing number of tourists each year. In Saudi, food is much more than a necessity; it is a central element of hospitality and social bonding.
Culinary options in the country showcase Saudi’s culture and long heritage as a diverse and multicultural country.
Saudi cuisine, shaped by historical trade routes and cultural exchanges, is an exotic blend of Middle Eastern flavours, Asian spices, and a touch of modern innovation. The fusion of savours and techniques from different regions has created a unique and diverse gastronomic experience that reflects Saudi’s cosmopolitan heritage.
The use of spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cumin, combined with traditional techniques like slow-cooking and grilling, highlight the depth and complexity of Saudi dishes. Dishes such as Kabsa, infused with a variety of spices, and Jareesh, made from grains, exemplify this diversity.
Throughout the years, gastronomy has emerged as a significant draw, with both local and international chefs contributing more and more to the evolving culinary landscape. Chefs are indeed exploring new ways to integrate traditional aromas with modern techniques, creating a dynamic gastronomic scene.
Maiz is the perfect example of these establishments revisiting the heritage of Saudi cuisine with style and elegance to offer a high-level gastronomic experience, a similar approach shared by Nagwa, also based in Riyadh and specialized in Saudi sweets and pastries.
Moreover, discover below some remarkable chefs that are making waves in Saudi cuisine today!
Abdel Rahmane Enani is a prime example of this new generation of Saudi chefs who are redefining the culinary scene. He is the mastermind behind Jeddah’s famous taco truck “Caliente.” Enani specializes in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, a style influenced by his family and mentors. He has declared, “I appreciate the finesse of Japanese cuisine and the authenticity of Mediterranean cuisines. I believe their juxtaposition creates a perfect balance in the world of food, offering a truly refined gastronomic experience.”
Enani participated in the American reality cooking show “Top Chef,” honing his skills in South America and California. His work reflects the vibrant fusion of global influences present in modern Saudi cuisine, offering a unique culinary proposition that blends multiple cultures while remaining deeply rooted in Saudi traditions.
Rakan Al-Oraifi Rising culinary star and TV presenter Rakan Al-Oraifi was hailed as the “Best Saudi Chef” at the 2018 Saudi Excellence in Tourism Awards. He also showcased his talent on “Top Chef Middle East” season two. Known for his modern take on traditional Saudi dishes, Al-Oraifi continues to captivate food enthusiasts with his creative culinary vision.
Nour Al-Zaben A graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Paris, Nour Al-Zaben is a judge on the reality cooking show “Chopped” and the founder of Urb Kitchen in Jeddah. Her culinary style combines classic techniques with modern twists, resulting in dishes that are both sophisticated and approachable.
Alain Ducasse – renowned French chef Alain Ducasse has brought his expertise to the heart of the AlUla oasis, presenting a menu that showcases local products through the lens of French culinary excellence. Visitors can savour dishes that combine local and French inspirations. Examples of his creations include traditional lamb dishes infused with Arabian spices and desserts that feature local dates and honey. This pop-up experience will return in 2025, offering another opportunity to enjoy Ducasse’s masterful fusion of flavours in Saudi.