Ha’il, known for its warm hospitality and desert charm, offers a rich variety of traditional Saudi dishes rooted in Bedouin culture. From camel meat specialties to hearty wheat stews and aromatic rice platters, the local food scene is authentic, filling, and best enjoyed in traditional settings.
1. Taste haresa, a local wheat porridge
Why visit: A comforting dish made from crushed wheat and meat, slow-cooked until creamy.
Highlights: – Popular in winter – Simple and hearty – Often eaten with laban (buttermilk)
Timing: Best during lunch hours
Entry: Available at local homes or traditional restaurants
2. Dine at Al Turathi Traditional Restaurant
Why visit: One of Ha’il’s top cultural restaurants, offering classic Najdi dishes in a heritage setting.
Highlights: – Kabsa, jareesh, qursan – Floor seating and family rooms – Antique-themed interiors
Timing: 12:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹1,000–1,600 for two (approx.)
3. Try camel meat (hashi) specialties
Why visit: Ha’il is known for its tender camel dishes cooked with regional spices.
Highlights: – Cooked in mandi or grilled form – Rich in flavor – Best with rice or flatbread
Timing: Lunch and early dinner
Entry: Available at Al Khodariyah Restaurant and similar spots
4. Sample local dates and Arabic coffee
Why visit: The region produces some of the finest dates, often served with spiced coffee.
Highlights: – Sukkari and khalas date varieties – Served as welcome treat – Aromatic cardamom-laced qahwa
Timing: All day; especially during breaks or gatherings
Entry: Free in homes, or try Bait Al Qahwa Café
5. Enjoy kabsa at Al Khodariyah Restaurant
Why visit: A popular spot in Ha’il for large portions of chicken or lamb kabsa with traditional sides.
Highlights: – Flavored rice with meat – Yogurt, salad, and hot sauce on the side – Fast, friendly service
Timing: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹800–1,200 for two (approx.)
6. Eat jareesh and qursan at Najdiyat Restaurant
Why visit: This restaurant specializes in wheat-based dishes served in traditional copper pots.
Highlights: – Thick jareesh with meat topping – Qursan with vegetables and bread – Rustic taste of the region
Timing: 1:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Entry: ₹900–1,400 for two (approx.)
7. Try mutabbaq from a street cart
Why visit: A savory snack stuffed with meat or eggs, folded and fried to crisp perfection.
Highlights: – Local evening favorite – Served hot with lemon – Budget-friendly street food
Timing: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–300 per piece (approx.)
8. Sip laban and eat dates at a local souq
Why visit: Refresh with cool buttermilk and sweet dates after shopping or sightseeing.
Highlights: – Sold fresh at open markets – Traditional pairing – Ideal as a light refreshment
Timing: Morning and early evening
Entry: ₹100–200 (approx.)
9. Visit Heritage Café for traditional desserts
Why visit: Offers local sweets like hininy and date cake in a cozy, folk-style café.
Highlights: – Served with Arabic tea – Family-friendly space – Traditional music and décor
Timing: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹500–800 for two (approx.)
10. Explore evening food stalls during festivals
Why visit: Ha’il hosts seasonal fairs where you can try freshly prepared local snacks.
Highlights: – Sambusas, kabsa, sweets – Casual, open-air setup – Great cultural experience
Timing: During Ha’il Winter Festival or weekends
Entry: ₹300–600 per plate (approx.)
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Rabah Al Shammary on Unsplash
