Food History of Abraj Al Bait (Clock Tower), Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia

The Abraj Al Bait Towers, also known as the Clock Tower, is more than just an architectural wonder; it is also a hub for diverse culinary experiences. As part of the government's initiative to modernize Mecca to accommodate the millions of pilgrims who travel for the Hajj and Umrah each year, the complex features a large shopping mall that includes a variety of dining options catering to the tastes of visitors from all over the world. Traditional Arabian cuisine, with its rich spices and flavors, represents the historical gastronomy of the region.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Abraj Al Bait (Clock Tower) for Tourists

1. Kabsa – A flavorful rice dish mixed with spices and traditionally served with chicken. It's a staple dish and a must-try for those looking to savor local flavors (non-veg).
2. Shawarma – A popular Middle Eastern wrap filled with marinated slices of chicken or lamb, vegetables, and sauces, and it is perfect for a quick bite on the go (non-veg).
3. Falafel – These deep-fried chickpea patties are commonly served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce and are a delicious vegetarian option (veg).
4. Hummus – A creamy spread made of mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is a popular vegetarian appetizer (veg).
5. Mutabbaq – A savory stuffed pancake that can be filled with a variety of ingredients including vegetables or minced meat, making it a versatile dish (can be veg or non-veg).
6. Tabbouleh – A refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice, which is a perfect vegetarian option (veg).
7. Samboosa – These are triangular pastry pockets filled with spiced vegetables, cheese, or meat and are similar to Indian samosas (can be veg or non-veg).
8. Al Harees – A traditional dish of wheat mixed with meat and seasoned with regional spices, slowly cooked until they blend into a smooth texture (non-veg).
9. Umm Ali – A delicious and creamy dessert made with pastry, nuts, and milk, similar to a bread pudding, this is an indulgent sweet treat for after meals (veg).
10. Kunafa – A sweet cheese pastry soaked in a sugar-based syrup, it's a popular dessert throughout the Middle East, and a must-try sweet dish (veg).

Top Famous Restaurants in Abraj Al Bait (Clock Tower)

• The Oasis
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Kabsa, Local Arabian Cuisine (non-veg)
• Al Tazaj
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: BBQ Chicken, Middle Eastern Grilled Dishes (non-veg)
• Al-Dar Al-Baida Restaurant
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Endowment, Mecca
  Famous Food: Local breakfast buffet, Arabic pastries (veg and non-veg)
• Al Baik
  Address: Food Court, Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Broasted Chicken, Garlic Sauce (non-veg)
• Zam Zam Restaurant
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Towers, Mecca
  Famous Food: Nasi Briyani, Arabian Cuisine (non-veg)
• Smash Burger
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Burgers and Fries (non-veg)
• Bin Dawood
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Supermarket with a variety of local and international food products (veg and non-veg)
• Al Fairouz
  Address: Al Maabda, King Abdul Aziz Endowment, Abraj Al Bait, Mecca
  Famous Food: Mediterranean Cuisine, Shawarma (non-veg)
• Maqam Café
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Coffee, Pastries, Snacks (veg and non-veg)
• Hardee's
  Address: Abraj Al Bait Mall, Mecca
  Famous Food: Thickburgers, Chicken Tender Sandwich (non-veg)