Irth Cafe to Celebrate Saudi Traditional Dishes

The Irth Cafe, a fresh and exciting venture by the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, will be opening its doors in Saudi Arabia. The name “Irth” means “heritage” in Arabic, and this cafe aims to celebrate and promote the rich culinary traditions of Saudi Arabia.

Irth cafe: A culinary journey through Saudi heritage

Irth Cafe will open in three major cities: Madinah, Jeddah, and Riyadh. The Madinah and Jeddah branches will open in mid-September, while the Riyadh branch will follow in October. Each location promises a unique experience, blending traditional Arabian hospitality with contemporary culinary innovation.

One of the standout features of Irth Cafe is its commitment to supporting local chefs and producers. The cafe will serve as a platform for these talented individuals to showcase their skills and products. This initiative aims to elevate Saudi cuisine by offering traditional dishes with a creative twist. Visitors can expect a delightful mix of flavors that honor the past.

Irth is also the flagship Saudi restaurant of Aroya Cruises, which is re-launching its refurbished ship Aroya in December 2024. Basing on the designs shared thus far, the design of the restaurant will feature tapestries representing the different Saudi regions. In addition, Irth’s materials and color scheme will take inspiration from the kingdom’s unique landscapes and architecture.

A cultural and gastronomic experience

Irth Cafe is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural experience. For those who love to explore new cultures through their cuisine, the cafe is a must-visit. The cafe’s mission to promote Saudi culinary heritage and support local talent makes it a standout destination. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Saudi Arabia, it should be on your itinerary.

The opening of Irth Cafe marks an exciting chapter in Saudi Arabia’s culinary scene. With its focus on heritage, innovation, and local talent, the cafe promises to offer a unique and memorable experience for all visitors.

About the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission

The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission is the body that promotes all forms of culinary arts activities in Saudi Arabia. It strives to develop and encourage innovation in cooking techniques, recipes, ingredients, food preparation, and presentation. Moreover, it aims to introduce Saudi dishes both within the kingdom and to the rest of the world. With the launch of Irth Cafe, both locals and visitors will be able to enjoy the best of Saudi traditional cuisine.

The Saudi government launched the commission in February 2020 to oversee the culinary arts sector.

In July 2024, the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission hosted an open meeting to gather producers in the culinary arts sector. The event covered topics such as improving production efficiency, improving the quality of local products, and increasing small producers’ income.

Meanwhile, in June 2024, the commission treated Londoners to a taste of traditional Saudi food at the London Food Festival. Chefs served dishes like jareesh, a wheat dish with onions and black lemon, and muttabaq, a spicy, filled omelet pancake.

Photo: X/MOCCulinary