Must-Try Foods In Desert Designs (Al Khobar) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Desert Designs, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia

Though Desert Designs itself is a store specializing in authentic Arabian crafts, fashion, and regional artwork rather than food, the city it resides in, Al Khobar, has a rich culinary tradition. Al Khobar is part of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, where food culture has been influenced by the trading history of the Persian Gulf. Traditional Bedouin cuisine has also left a mark with its emphasis on simple, hearty dishes that can be prepared in a desert environment.

The local cuisine often features rice, lentils, and spices, with a variety of meats except pork, which is prohibited in Islam. Seafood is also a staple given the city's coastal location. Dishes are often flavored with cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon, reflecting the spice trade's contribution to the area's culinary development. Ingredients like dates and nuts are also frequently used, reflecting the region's agricultural offerings.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Desert Designs, Al Khobar

1. Shawarma - A popular Middle Eastern dish of marinated chicken or other meats, wrapped in a soft flatbread, eaten as a quick snack or meal. (Non-Veg)

2. Hummus - A smooth spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, usually served with flatbread. (Veg)

3. Falafel - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and/or fava beans, often served in a pita and accompanied by salads, pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and drizzled with tahini-based sauces. (Veg)

4. Kabsa - A traditional Saudi dish of rice, vegetables, and meat, usually chicken, cooked with a blend of spices. (Non-Veg)

5. Tabbouleh - A refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, and onion, seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. (Veg)

6. Mutabbaq - A stuffed pancake or layered bread, typically filled with minced mutton or chicken, but also available in vegetable versions. (Non-Veg/Veg)

7. Samboosa - Savory pastry triangles stuffed with a variety of fillings such as cheese or vegetables, similar to Indian samosas. (Veg/Non-Veg)

8. Sayadiyah - A fish lovers' delight, this dish features seasoned rice topped with fried or grilled fish and nuts, hailing from the coastal areas. (Non-Veg)

9. Baba Ganoush - A levantine dish of mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahina, olive oil, possibly with onion, tomato, and spices. (Veg)

10. Umm Ali - A delicious traditional dessert made with pastry, milk, sugar, and a blend of nuts, typically served hot. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Desert Designs, Al Khobar

1. Al-Sanbok Seafood Restaurant
Address: Prince Turkey St, Al Yacht, Al Khobar 34624, Saudi Arabia
Famous for: Sayadiyah, various seafood dishes (Non-Veg)

2. Villa Palma
Address: Corniche Blvd, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
Famous for: Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Hummus and Tabbouleh (Veg/Non-Veg)

3. The Butcher Shop & Grill
Address: Al Rashid Mall, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
Famous for: Grilled meats like chicken and lamb, excluding cow non-veg food items (Non-Veg)

4. Indian Summer
Address: King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Road, Rakah Al Janubiyah, Al Khobar 34226, Saudi Arabia
Famous for: Traditional Indian cuisine, offering a variety of vegetable-based curries (Veg/Non-Veg)

5. Mizo Eatery
Address: Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Road, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
Famous for: Fusion dishes with a focus on vegetarian options like Falafel (Veg)

Note that many restaurants in the region accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions by offering a selection of plant-based dishes along with their standard meat-based fare.