From traditional Saudi cuisine to global fusion, fine dining and breezy burger joints, there’s something to suit everyone in the varied dining scene of Tabuk.
Middle Eastern influence is baked into the city’s eateries, with local dishes on offer at the majority of restaurants, while big sharing platters give a nod to traditional communal gatherings. The city’s dining scene has grown in recent years, as its population has swelled, and there are now scores of noteworthy places to grab a bite. These are the best places to eat in Tabuk.
1. Jandofly
Set a few hours inland from the Red Sea, Tabuk boasts a delicious seafood offering in Jandofly – the mouthwatering fresh catch of the day is king. From grilled fish to lobster dishes, siyadiah and shrimp rice, if it can be found in the sea, you’ll see it on the menu. The restaurant also offers curries and Middle Eastern dishes, so there’s truly something for everyone. Decor is pleasant and simple, and a meal here won’t break the bank. Make sure you ask the staff for the day’s recommendations.
King Abdulaziz Rd, Al Ulaya, Tabuk 47911, Saudi Arabia
2. Hikari
Sleek floor-to-ceiling windows and intricate glass chandeliers decorate Hikari, but the menu is much more fun than its upscale interior suggests. Here you’ll find giant wooden sushi boats complete with sails, rice dishes served in pineapples, and stacked fish dishes decorated with bamboo leaves. Eat inside for the ambience or outside to people-watch.
King Khalid Rd, Almasif, Tabuk 47321, Saudi Arabia
3. Al Biryani House
Al Biryani House, set in a large, imposing building on Prince Sultan Road, is widely known as the go-to spot in Tabuk for Indian cuisine. What this no frills joint lacks in decoration it makes up for in flavour – think big biryani dishes, flavoursome curries, fresh naan bread and veggie options aplenty. Visit during busy times when a full restaurant makes for a buzzy atmosphere and detracts from the rather plain surroundings.
Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Road, Al Salam, Tabuk, 47311
4. Hatchers
Kids are a regular sight at restaurants in Tabuk. Saudi culture is very family-friendly and, as such, you’ll easily be able to take smaller people to most eateries. Even the fussiest of children will find something they like at American diner Hatchers, where dishes such as waffles, omelette and French toast with syrup grace the menu. The German chocolate pancake (that’s several layers of stacked pancake to the uninitiated) is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
King Abdulaziz Rd, Alulaya, Tabuk 47911
5. Al-Qaryah Al-Turathiyah
Specialities from chicken mandi and kabsa to madhbi and camel can be found at this Tabuk restaurant, where dishes are served up in generous portions in traditional surroundings. Local artefacts and pictures hang on the walls, while booth seating is divided up by impressive white columns that add to the ambience. Enjoy food picnic-stye on the floor to experience classic communal dining.
King Khalid Rd, Al Faisaliyah Ashamaliyah, Tabuk 47913, Saudi Arabia
6. Een Sukkar
This bustling Arabic restaurant hits the spot with local flavours. Here, you’ll find regional favourites with a twist – think honey and barbecue shakshuka, watercress and pomegranate salad, and chickpea ghee. There’s also a classic grill, freshly-made pastries and a decent variety of fresh juices. Foodies will be impressed by the thoughtful and unique flavour combinations, and kids will enjoy the busy, friendly atmosphere.
Faisaliyah South Dist, Alulaya, Tabuk 47911, Saudi Arabia
7. Elavora
Though it’s not strictly a vegetarian restaurant, French-Italian joint Elavora has plenty of non-meat options on the menu ranging from pizza and pasta dishes to salads, flatbreads, fries and mouthwatering desserts like creme brulee and a generously sized tiramisu. There’s a laid back, homey feel to this eatery, where you can watch the chefs at work making pizza across the counter or hide away from view in one of the seating booths.
Abi Bakr As Siddiq, Sultanah, Tabuk 47312
8. Western Road Steak & Grill
Some days only a burger will do and in Tabuk there are a number of burger joints, from fast food options to higher-scale eateries such as Western Road Steak & Grill. Here you’ll find a meaty menu with offerings from premium cuts of steak to ribs drizzled in barbecue sauce and loaded burgers (don’t worry, there are fish and vegetarian dishes located among the beefy selection). Seating includes closed family rooms and VIP areas.
King Abdullah Street, Tabuk 11111 Saudi Arabia
