Where We Are Going Today: ‘Flat Burger’ in Jeddah

Foodsphere in Riyadh is a new spot that takes visitors on an educational and adventurous journey through Saudi Arabia’s rich food culture.

Located on Riyadh’s Tahlia Street, Foodsphere is part of the Riyadh Oases Network, which will be built across numerous neighborhoods in the Kingdom.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by the warm staff and ushers that provide a guided experience in each of the themed spaces.

The first space is dedicated to the significance of coffee and dates in Saudi Arabia, a key symbol of hospitality.

In the Coffee Capsule visitors enter an immersive room highlighting the process of coffee cultivation in Jazan, in the Asir region. The coffee space has two invigorating sensory experiences, allowing guests to smell different types of Arabic coffee, consisting of different base notes and flavors according to the region.

The Date Library includes the most prominent dates of the region, including descriptions on the fruit’s characteristics and region of cultivation.

I had a cappuccino and date pudding from Saudi coffee shop Rawaa, which brews locally sourced coffee. The coffee had a balanced flavor and the date pudding was heart-warming and delicious with a sweet date flavor.

The Apiary features a live beehive exhibit, allowing guests to witness the wonders of one of the most important insects.

My favorite part of Foodsphere is the Biosphere, which includes a butterfly exhibit. Upon entering the sphere-shaped space, you are greeted with colorful, majestic butterflies flying over your head and thriving in their environment.

The center includes thorough descriptions of each zone in English and Arabic, to provide an accessible learning experience for visitors.

Outside of the center is an area dedicated to food and drink venues, as well as a running track and public seating.

Entry is free, making Foodsphere an ideal spot for friends and families to visit together.

Marble Slab Creamery is one of the go-to destinations for ice cream lovers across the Kingdom, offering a fully customizable experience.

Known for its handcrafted ice cream and a wide selection of mix-ins, the ice cream parlor allows customers to create their perfect dessert. 

The menu features a variety of sizes, with prices starting at SR21 ($5.60) for a small cup and going up to SR46 ($12) for a pint. Customers can select one or two flavors and add unlimited mix-ins at no extra charge.

For those looking for something more indulgent, the tasty creations for SR29 offer pre-mixed combinations such as Nutella Matilda’s cake, which blends Nutella ice cream, graham crackers, chocolate cake, and Nutella sauce, and cookie dough drizzle, featuring birthday cake ice cream, cookie dough, and chocolate sauce.

The ice cream shop also offers a selection of ice cream cakes, including fun designs such as the Chanel ribbon cake and butterfly cake, as well as cookie cakes and cake’n’cup, a mix of chocolate and red velvet flavors served in individual cups. 

While the quality of the ice cream and the variety of flavors make it a great spot for a sweet treat, the prices are on the higher side compared to other ice cream parlors.

For more information, check their Instagram @marbleslabksa.