If you’re on the lookout for a great coffee with a stunning outdoor setting, these venues in Jeddah are exactly what you need. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s second-largest city, has a strong coffee culture. The coastal favourite has a vibrant coffee scene, boasting roasts from around the world alongside more typical Saudi coffee blends, served in both contemporary and traditional coffee houses.
From heritage spots in the old town of Al Balad to sleek new spaces with contemporary designs, these are our favourite outdoor cafes in Jeddah.
1. Local’s Café
Local’s is consistently busy no matter the time or season. Located in the Al Andalus district of Jeddah, this lively neighborhood coffee shop is perfect for both a coffee on the run and a longer experience with friends. And it’s not just coffee on offer here – enjoy delicious sweets, sandwiches, cookies, scones and croissants that are great for a hearty meal.
Solo visitors can grab a book from the small library and enjoy some literature while they sip their brew. The outside terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy the views and the buzzing conversation from the patrons.
2. Gathering
Just like its name, this cafe in Ar Rawdah is known as a popular gathering place because of the warm and inviting ambiance that lures guests from around the city. Whether you’re heading there solo or with a group of people, this is a great place for relaxing amid inviting surroundings and with a great drink in hand.
Take a seat outside on the inviting terrace and sip an iced coffee or specialty drink as you nibble on a delicious salty or sweet dish. Take a break from the bustling city and play one of the many board games set up for patrons (chess, anyone?). There are also regular art workshops and exhibitions at Gathering – no wonder it’s such a popular community hotspot.
3. Layali Tarikhiya Café
At this cafe in the heart of Al Balad, Jeddah’s historic district, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time. One of the most renowned social spots in the area, this isn’t just a place to grab coffee and a bite to eat, it is a place to revisit and relish the past.
Steeped in traditional décor and a curated collection of antiques, time spent at Layali Tarikhiya Café (Historical Nights Café in English) is a culturally enriching experience. Sip your coffee on the roof terrace and people watch to your heart’s content. If you’re peckish, there are a variety of delicious bites such as sandwiches and sweets for you to try.
4. Bait Ziryab
Another cultural hotspot for coffee lovers is Bait Ziryab and it is also located in Al Balad. It’s packed with historical and cultural objects set within traditional Hejazi architecture featuring large wooden latticed windows painted in striking sapphire blue colour.
Enjoy a variety of specialty drinks, including Saudi beans and more exotic blends as well as delicious snacks. Beyond coffee and incredible views of the historic district, there are regular art events, poetry readings and musical performances to keep Jeddah’s unique community and cultural identity thriving.
5. Kiaora
The first espresso bar in Jeddah, this invigorating cafe serves delicious brews and espresso within an authentic urban contemporary Latin ambiance with indoor seating and an outdoor terrace. Decorated in bright, vibrant colors, the venue is expansive and offers a wonderful place for friends and family to gather together. Choose from a variety of espressos, coffees, mocktails, pastries and sandwiches. Kiaora is open 24 hours a day – perfect for late-night visits.
