Whether you're looking for traditional Saudi dishes, affordable family-friendly options, or upscale dining experiences, Dammam will have somewhere to suit you. Of course, there are endless places to try local specialities such as kabsa and saleeg, but Dammam’s vibrant expat communities have also had a huge influence on the dining scene here.
So if you’re craving a plate of creamy Italian pasta, a table filled with Lebanese mezze, hearty biriyani or a freshly-caught seafood feast, you’ll be able to find it. Here are some of the best places to eat in Dammam.
1. Heritage Village restaurant
The on-site restaurant in Dammam’s Heritage Village is a superb introduction to Saudi cuisine, with a menu that covers all the national favourites. The atmospheric dining room is on the ground floor of the village’s fort, so diners can admire the stained glass windows and traditional Hejazi architecture as they tuck into hearty plates of local grub.
Try their kabsa, a fragrantly spiced chicken and rice dish; saleeg, meat with rice cooked in broth and milk; or jareesh, crushed wheat served with lamb – all come in sharing-sized portions. There’s also plenty of traditional mezze, salads and grilled meat and seafood to choose from. Make a night of it and follow a meal here with some sightseeing around the rest of the Heritage Village.
2. Al-Sanbok Restaurant
Make the most of Dammam’s coastal location with a splurge at Al-Sanbok Restaurant. This award-winning eatery serves up the freshest local fish and seafood in a dazzling setting, complete with large windows overlooking the sea.
You can select your fish from the day’s catch, which usually includes hammour (grouper), lobster, prawns, and crab, then order your pick to be grilled, baked or fried as you like it. The options are very international, so expect Thai soup, Boston-style chowder and Indian curried fish on the menu too. Seafood lovers couldn’t pick a better spot to get a taste of the Arabian Gulf.
3. Steak House
A local institution for over two decades, Steak House on Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd Road has stayed popular by serving up reliably great steak meals in an unpretentious setting. This easy-going spot offers cuts to suit every steak-lover, from ribeye to filet mignon, as well as chicken dishes, burgers, veggie options and plenty of lighter bites.
This is also a good place to get a taste of traditional Middle Eastern-style meat dishes, as you’ll find regional specialties such as shish taouk (grilled chicken skewers) and kabsa on the menu too.
4. Enab Beirut
Widely described as the best Lebanese food in Dammam (there’s stiff competition!), Enab Beirut offers a long, mouthwatering list of hot and cold mezze, authentic manakeesh, charcoal mixed grills and other Lebanese classic dishes.
Housed inside the Kempinski Al Othman Hotel, there’s indoor and outdoor seating available, making it a great choice whatever the weather. The restaurant’s chintzy decor includes retro lamps and floral fabrics, creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. Traditional live oud music is performed every night except Sundays.
5. Operation Falafel
For affordable Middle Eastern street food served in a contemporary style, Operation Falafel is a must-visit. This chain originated in Dubai and quickly went global – for a time it even had branches as far-flung as London and New York. Well-priced Middle Eastern basics such as falafel wraps, chicken shawarma and mezze platters make it a great option for a quick meal or a relaxed dinner with friends. Perfect for anyone visiting Dammam on a budget.
6. Macs Eatery
When you have a real craving for Tex-Mex, Macs Eatery might be the only place that can hit the spot. The menu is a great mix of typical Tex Mex fare (think loaded nachos, cheesy quesadillas and flavour-packed tacos) plus dishes with a little added Saudi flair, like the sweet and spicy chipotle wings marinated in date honey from Al-Ahsa.
The upbeat, lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for sitting in and sharing a spread with friends. Alternatively, order your food to go – Macs is just moments from the Corniche, so take your Tex-Mex feast to enjoy in a scenic picnic spot by the Arabian Gulf.
7. Nozomi
Looking for somewhere extra-special to book for date night? Try Nozomi. With its low lighting, sleek, dark-wood decor and grown-up atmosphere, it’s one of Khobar’s most romantic restaurants. The high-end international Japanese chain has become known for being a celeb haunt, and the menu of sushi, sashimi, grills and creative mocktails is as fabulous as you’d expect. If you’re feeling really flashy, order the Nozomi Gold Seared Salmon, topped with truffle cream and 24ct gold flakes.
8. Naya Daur
Naya Daur is one of Khobar’s best-loved Indian restaurants, serving up flavoursome curries, biriyanis, tandoori grills and piping-hot naan and roti bread – all presented beautifully. The drinks menu here is a lot of fun, with creative mocktails from Saudi champagne to Masala cola on offer.
It’s another great spot for families, as the service is warm and welcoming, and the bold, poppy-red walls are covered with bright murals of elephants and peacocks. It’s a little on the expensive side, but regular diners rave about the friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere and generous portions.
9. Momas
Momas is a popular family-friendly spot, best known for its delectable breakfasts and brunches. Bring the kids at the weekend to tuck into traditional Arabic lunches and international brunch staples – think eggs served with everything from avo toast to labna and beetroot.
This modern, relaxed chain is family-run and has branches in both Dammam and Al Khobar. Don't leave without trying the ultimate Western-Arab fusion brunch dish: Date n Cream Toast, loaded with cottage cheese and cream and topped with dates, pistachios, dried roses and honey. Delicious.
