Restaurant Review: Toki, Jeddah

One of the oldest and most coveted Jeddah establishments, Toki has withstood the test of time by constantly transforming itself.

With new menu items and a fresh look that debuted in May of last year, this homegrown restaurant remains unmatched as our favourite local fine-dining Chinese. Shanghai’s rich culture mixed in with hints of art deco inspire the restaurant’s interiors, while the floor-to-ceiling floral mosaic design evokes a sense of contemporary elegance.  

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Don't fill up too much on the complimentary prawn crackers (we personally find them hard to resist), as there’s so much to be savoured.

For starters, the classics are hard to beat.

The lettuce wrap is crunchy and flavourful, the smoked corn chicken delivers unexpected and delightful sweetness, and the crispy prawn with wasabi mayo dressing is a crowd pleaser.

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We opted to try some new menu items, and were pleasantly surprised to discover a wagyu sesame bun.

Plus, the dim sum is crave-worthy, a delicate symphony of piquancy in each bite. Some of our other favourites are the crystal shrimp dumplings (perfect for the purists) and Sichuan siu mai dumplings (for those looking for a tangy burst).

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A meal at Toki is never complete without an order of Sichuan aromatic crispy duck, available in half or whole portions. The deep-fried duck is served with scallions, cucumbers, homemade pancakes, and signature plum sauce – we recommend you roll them yourself, so you can balance the flavours to your liking.

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If you still have room for a main course, the steamed local najel (Red Sea grouper) fillet cooked in a simple Cantonese-style ginger and soy sauce is a light option. Feeling more indulgent? Opt for kung pao chicken with a side of garlic fried rice and an interesting take on broccoli to round it off.  

Must Try Dish: Sichuan aromatic crispy duck 

King Abdulaziz Road, Al Khaldiyah 
@tokiksa