The SL ME Team's Go-To Dining Spots In The Region

There are so many exciting concepts in Saudi right now, it’s hard to narrow it down, but I’d start with Moon Shell when I’m craving vegetables and healthy bowls. For a relaxed, simple meal, The Good Butcher is a reliable favourite for its comforting, hearty meat dishes. 

For a more elevated experience, The Lucky Llama shines with its stylish take on Nikkei cuisine, a vibrant fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavours. When I’m after something indulgent and satisfying, MMM Burger is delicious.  

For matcha, Let’s Matcha is my go-to, while Off Brief Cafe is perfect for coffee. I also have a soft spot for dessert, and Sucre de Nada is a must – the lychee sagodana is light, refreshing, and just a little different. A hidden gem I always recommend is Otium Concept – the shrimp orzo and mushroom dip are standout dishes, perfect for sharing. Next on my list is Kilo Kitchen, which I’ve heard amazing things about and can’t wait to try. 

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For a meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying, Tasha's is always my top choice thanks to its extensive menu and perfectly balanced options. Kinoya is another favourite – the ramen there is consistently excellent and always satisfying. When I’m seeking something a bit more adventurous and refined,  Jun's offers a creative tasting menu that turns dining into a truly immersive experience.  

Jailbird’s fried chicken never fails to deliver on indulgence and flavour. For matcha lovers, Club Ocha stands out with its ceremonial-grade powder and customisable sweetness, while my sweet tooth is always tempted by the banoffee pie at Middle Child when dining out. At home, I turn to Butter by the Dozen, especially for their Nutella and Valrhona cookies, which are simply irresistible.  

A hidden gem I often recommend is Raju Omlet – its flavourful Indian street food, like Eggs Kejriwal and egg rolls, is not to be missed. And next up on my list is Itadaku, a place I’ve heard completely redefines Japanese dining. 

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I can be quite picky when it comes to food, so I tend to stick to places I know never disappoint. For comforting, home-style dishes, Lebanese eatery Al Beiruti is my go-to; the grills are excellent and the vermicelli rice is a favourite, alongside the mezze dishes. 

I’m a big breakfast person, especially when it comes to egg dishes, and Of The Earth is a standout for healthier options. Also, the multiseed waffle is crunchy and delicious. For coffee, it has to be The Espresso Lab – the spot’s 3oz espresso with milk is my favourite – usually followed by something sweet from Home Bakery.  

I love a good burger, and SALT is my monthly fix (I love eating at their Kite Beach location). For a hidden gem, Biker's Cafe is a must; the traditional Emirati-inspired ‘Flavour of Arabia’ breakfast platter is one of a kind. Next on my list is Farida, a Persian restaurant in Kuwait, I would love to try on my next visit.  

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I’m all about balance when it comes to food – mixing indulgence with comfort and a bit of discovery. For dessert, I always go for gelato at Venchi, ordering stracciatella with the darkest chocolate available.  

When I’m craving something healthy but still delicious, I love Kokoro. For a cosy, no-fuss meal, I usually go to Em Sherif Café, and if I’m looking for something more elevated, Rohen at The Arts Club is my go-to. The food is some of the best Japanese I’ve had in Dubai and the setting is always so stylish and inviting.  

When it comes to fast food, Five Guys always hits the spot. My order is a little cheeseburger with mayo, ketchup, lettuce, grilled onions and pickles. For coffee or matcha, I swear by Toby’s Estate. A hidden gem, I think more people should know about is El Primo, I order all the tacos. Next on my list is Window in Alserkal, its modern interiors and wood-fire concept is so unique.  

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When it comes to dining in Dubai, I tend to rotate between a few favourites. I usually crave dishes more on the healthier side but that still feel indulgent, so I always order from Bowlful. Then, for dessert, I find myself ordering from Tirameu, where the homemade tiramisu, especially flavours like Lotus and pistachio, are so unique and delicious.  

For an easy, everyday meal, I love going to Yava, the Mediterranean fusion offering is great, but it’s really the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that keeps me coming back. When I’m in the mood for something more elevated, KIRA is a favourite, thanks to its beautiful blend of Mediterranean and Japanese flavours, stunning interiors and incredible views.  

My ultimate fast-food fix has to be pizza from Pitfire Pizza. I’m a bread-and-cheese person through and through, and they do it best. For coffee, I always go back to Arabica; its flat white with coconut milk is a staple order for me. One hidden gem I love is Lazy Cat – the pond-side setting makes it feel really special, and I always order the Japanese cheesecake, which melts in your mouth. Next on my list to try is OTHER, a design-led spot everyone’s talking about.  

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There are so many amazing homegrown restaurants in Kuwait, it’s hard to choose favourites, but I’d start with Superfoods - their green bowl is my go-to for something healthy yet satisfying. I also love OVO for everyday ease, especially the Shuwaikh branch, which has such a warm feel and a great mix of salads and comforting dishes.  

I like to go to the Jacc Republique pop-up at Cocoa Room when I want something more glamorous or head to White Robata for some of the best sushi in town. I’m not big on fast food, but BBT (Best Burger in Town) is a favourite, get the West Coast with fries. For matcha and coffee, it’s always  Neighbors Matcha, usually followed by something from Neighbors Deli next door.  

I do have a soft spot for dessert and the chocolate cake at Nutbutter is unbeatable (especially with a scoop of ice cream), while OH G! is my go-to when I’m specifically craving ice cream. For a hidden gem, I always recommend Phet Phet – the chilli wontons, pad krapao beef and mango sticky rice are all standouts. Ode Eatery also has a tasty pancake with cream, qaimar and honey. Next on my list are Cocina Tres, and Kinugawa in Dubai.  

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