The fine-dining scene in Dammam has come into its own in recent years. More of the newer restaurants, including those in Al Khobar’s smart restaurant complex, Matal, have started focusing on the overall experience as well as the food itself. As a result, a wonderful atmosphere, beautiful dining rooms and polished service are not hard to find.
Meanwhile, many of the best restaurants along Dammam’s seafront and in top hotels continue to impress, bringing in great chefs from around the world to deliver authentic, mouth-watering cuisines. And several upscale international chains have set up shop in Dammam in recent years, too, treating diners to meals on a par with hotspots in London, Dubai and New York.
Prices can certainly be high in the top restaurants, but if you’re in the mood to splurge, there are endless options for date nights and family celebrations. These are just some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Dammam.
1. Nozomi
Serving dishes as decadent as gold-seared salmon, wagyu beef with truffle sauce and miso-marinated black cod, Nozomi offers indulgence on a plate. Fans of Japanese fine dining will be in seventh heaven here – the ingredients are top-notch, the preparation skilled and the presentation second-to-none, with each dish plated as carefully as a miniature work of art.
One of Khobar’s most exclusive evening spots, Nozomi attracts a sophisticated crowd, and there’s often a lively see-and-be-seen vibe here until late. It's often fully booked on weekends and in high season, so definitely reserve a table well in advance to avoid disappointment. There’s also a strict smart dress code, so make sure to wear your finest threads! Unsurprisingly, prices are on the high side for a typical meal from the à la carte menu.
2. Al Sanbok Restaurant
There’s possibly no dining experience more luxurious than eating fresh seafood while overlooking the waters where it was caught. This is just what Al Sanbok Restaurant offers – glorious coastal views over the Gulf and a huge array of fish and seafood prepared in styles as diverse as Indian, Thai, American and Arab.
The day’s catch is laid out on ice at the counter, and you can select what you want to eat and how you want it cooked. There are both local and imported fish on offer here, so if you’re keen to get an authentic taste of the region, ask the knowledgeable staff for advice about which varieties are most local and how they are typically prepared – they’ll be happy to advise. It's the perfect spot for a special occasion.
3. San Carlo Cicchetti
This supremely elegant branch of the international San Carlo chain serves up authentic Italian cuisine inspired by the Venetian tradition of cicchetti (small plates that can be eaten alone or shared). Located in Al Khobar’s smart Patio Mall, the setting is lovely, with pretty blue decor, mirrored walls and floral accents creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
San Carlo’s menu changes regularly to incorporate seasonal ingredients, but you can expect all the Italian favourites on there year round – salads, pasta, risotto and seafood dishes, all plated beautifully. Don’t forget to order a sizeable portion of the homemade tiramisu for dessert.
The service is known to be exceptionally warm and helpful, with wait staff always happy to talk through the menu and make personal recommendations. A great choice for a special occasion dinner, business lunch, or just to indulge in delicious Italian food.
4. Belgravian Brasserie
Belgravian Brasserie aims to bring together the cuisine of France’s famed brasseries and the dining culture of London’s upmarket Belgravia neighbourhood. And walking into the dining room with its polished, art deco styling complete with classic banquets, white linens and brass finishings really does give an ultra-European feel.
The menu reads like a typical Parisian brasserie, with steak, moules frites and French onion soup all featured, along with burgers, salads, oyster platters and – if you’re feeling particularly fancy – Beluga caviar. In a nod to British culture, there’s also Afternoon Tea served daily between 3pm and 6pm with a traditional range of loose-leaf teas available, including Jasmine Blossom, Darjeeling and Fujian Oolong.
5. Hellenika
Hellenika’s magnificent sea views, breezy alfresco dining area and authentic decor (think oversized pottery, whitewashed walls and large olive trees) make you feel as though you’re taking a seat in a taverna on a Greek island. This award-winning restaurant is housed in the restaurant complex, Matal, which is right on the Al Khobar seafront.
The menu is packed with mouthwatering Greek classics, from moussaka and lamb kleftiko to superb grilled seafood, summery salads and endless creamy dips with pita bread. The creative signature drinks are also a delight – try the Mykonos, a blend of Greek honey, yoghurt, fruity chunks and homemade watermelon syrup.
You can even finish your meal with some traditional plate-smashing, the perfect way to celebrate a delicious meal – staff demonstrate then invite guests to have a go.
6. Fayrouz
If you’re not in the Middle East for very long and want to pack in as many traditional foods as you can, try Fayrouz restaurant in Dammam’s Sheraton Hotel. This all-day buffet, specialising in Lebanese and Arabic dishes, is a great opportunity to try a vast array of authentic local flavours in one sitting.
The elegant, airy dining room features live cooking stations with grilled meats seasoned and cooked local-style, plus endless mezze, salads and traditional Saudi rice dishes to choose from. The dessert station is a real treat too, with a dizzying array of cakes, mousses and gooey pastries prepared with regional ingredients. Fayrouz also hosts popular themed Egyptian and seafood nights, and is known for being one of the most welcoming restaurants to families in Dammam.
