I was first introduced to Al Afrah years ago, back when I was still new to Riyadh. Tucked away in Al Murabba, this breakfast spot has been serving locals for decades—and after just one visit, I understood why. Whenever I’ve been away from the city for a while, this is the place I find myself craving.
If I wanted to give a guest visiting Riyadh a feel for the hustle, warmth, and flavor of a true Saudi morning, this is exactly where I’d take them. The buzz of conversation, the rhythm of orders flying out of the kitchen, and the smell of fresh bread—it’s an experience that captures the heart of the city.
Here’s what I had (and what I always go back for):
- Tamis bil Jubin – warm, soft bread filled with melted cheese. Classic, comforting, and a definite 10/10.
- Mixed Maasoub – sweet and hearty, made with mashed banana, cream, honey, and ghee.
- Lentils – light yet flavorful, the perfect savory balance to the sweeter dishes.
- Adani Tea – served in simple paper cups, but don’t let that fool you. This sweet, spiced tea—flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger—is rich, fragrant, and absolutely magical. You can even buy the spice mix from the store to recreate the experience at home.
Honestly, everything on the menu hits. Al Afrah now has several locations throughout Riyadh, so it’s easy to find one near you—including a branch in Olaya. Just be sure to check their hours before you go—this place stays busy for good reason.
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