Where We Are Going Today: NOC Caffe & Roastry in Riyadh

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Updated 02 August 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: NOC Caffe & Roastry in Riyadh

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  • NOC offers a diverse selection of baked goods, with their star dessert being the honey cake, multi-layered with thin levels of sponge and creamy filling, topped with a bed of graham crackers for texture

Amid Riyadh’s trendy coffee shops, where uncomfortable seating often prioritizes quantity over quality, NOC Cafe stands out by promising a relaxed, cozy atmosphere and an authentic coffee experience.

The cafe, which stands for “Not Only Coffee,” is famous for its wide variety of coffee beans, and their menu showcases a selection sourced directly from farms in South America and Africa, including from Kenya, Rwanda, Brazil, Mexico, and Peru.

Their standout coffee is the V60, prepared by pouring hot water over freshly roasted ground coffee, which then drips into the cup. The taste has a balanced flavor profile, bringing subtle notes of fruit, nuts and chocolate.

NOC offers a diverse selection of baked goods, with their star dessert being the honey cake, multi-layered with thin levels of sponge and creamy filling, topped with a bed of graham crackers for texture.

NOC is renowned for its luxury interior design, combining wood, stone, and iron elements that exude authenticity and timelessness, taking you to different places all in one location.

The bar area is inspired by Texan architecture, adorned with wood and stone, along with warm hanging lights and five different hanging clocks that show different times based on cities such as Paris, Moscow, and Berlin, and wooden barrels around the bar, referencing the cold brew process, adding rustic charm.

The walls combine grey sepia tones, wood, and lush greenery that transport you to Africa and South America, with a corner featuring traditional African-inspired artwork. The leather seating area, inspired by cigar lounges, is a comfortable space for studying, work, or gatherings with family and friends.

Located in the Hittin district, NOC also offers a variety of coffee beans and coffee accessories for purchase.

 


Content creators in Saudi Arabia lean into skincare science

Content creators in Saudi Arabia lean into skincare science
Updated 04 June 2025
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Content creators in Saudi Arabia lean into skincare science

Content creators in Saudi Arabia lean into skincare science

DUBAI: As skincare continues to dominate the beauty conversation online, Arab News caught up with two Saudi influencers to understand more about how they are tailoring their content in an age where science-backed skincare is a key part of any makeup routine.

Sara Ali and Sarleen Ahmed attended L’Oréal’s first-ever Skin Summit in Riyadh that convened more than 400 content creators.

“Since the summit, I’ve started asking myself ‘does this product have real value? Is it backed by research? Is it something I’d recommend with confidence?’ Now, my content isn’t just about the glow, it’s about the why behind the glow,” Ali told Arab News.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by SA | (@sarleenaa)

As beauty influencers are increasingly expected to provide at least a cursory explanation about the skincare products they recommend, Ahmed explained that “when you start understanding the science behind formulations and the long-term impact of ingredients, it brings a whole new level of purpose to the content you share.”

“I used to talk about how something made me feel – now, I want to talk about how it works,” Ali added.

Dr. Richard Betts, scientific director at the consumer products division at L'Oréal SAPMENA, agrees with the push to inform beauty influencers.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by SARA ALI | @eso.1ah)

“As a scientist, I believe bridging scientific expertise with creator-led storytelling is not just important, it is essential, especially in a market like Saudi Arabia, where digital engagement is amongst the highest globally,” he explained.

Digital penetration in the Kingdom stands at a staggering 99 percent, according to the Communications, Space and Technology Commission. And with around half the population sitting within the under-30 age range, it is no wonder that skincare companies are looking to leverage beauty influencers.

“Content creators have a unique ability to turn complex science into relatable, everyday skincare knowledge,” Betts noted.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Amigos’ — Mexican dining in Riyadh

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Updated 03 June 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Amigos’ — Mexican dining in Riyadh

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  • The homemade nacho chips, guacamole and salsa were delightful, and the quality of the beef was exceptional

If you are seeking a Mexican dining experience in Riyadh, look no further than Amigos.

Stepping in felt like a warm hug from an old friend. The restaurant has maintained its charm over the years, and aside from some new touches, the heart and soul of Amigos remains as it was.

The ambiance is simple and unpretentious, reminiscent of a small-town cantina. So, if hearty, soul-warming Mexican food is what you crave, this is the place to be.

During my recent visit, we indulged in a variety of dishes, including nachos, shrimp tacos, chicken quesadilla and even a hot dog. Each item left me feeling eager to return for more.

The homemade nacho chips, guacamole and salsa were delightful, and the quality of the beef was exceptional. Every bite was just like I remembered.

I also tried a meat taco, which could have been better with some toppings like avocado and sour cream. The meal came with fried potatoes and rice, though I found the nachos a bit lacking in quantity.

I visited Amigos based on a recommendation and was impressed by the ambiance and the food. The staff were also attentive, making for a wonderful dining experience. We left completely satisfied.

While the portions could be larger for the price — about SR50 riyals ($13) for a decent burrito or SR40 for tacos — the quality makes it worthwhile.

For those raised in Riyadh, Amigos represents a soulful corner of the city that stays evergreen.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Crome London’ Cafe in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Crome London’ Cafe in Riyadh
Updated 02 June 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Crome London’ Cafe in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Crome London’ Cafe in Riyadh
  • Crome London offers a variety of French toast options, including the berry best, maple syrup, chocoholic, and lotus and banana

Nestled in Riyadh Park Mall, Crome London is a charming cafe offering great food and a stunning rooftop view of the Kingdom’s capital.

Having visited a couple of times, I’ve had the opportunity to explore their menu and experience the inviting atmosphere.

I’ve enjoyed several dishes during my visits, starting with the freddo cappuccino, which was fantastic. The Nutella croissant was equally delightful — rich and indulgent. The prices were reasonable for the quality.

On another occasion, I tried the red velvet French toast, which was delicious with just the right amount of sweetness.

The green tea and flat white I ordered were decent, though I found them a bit overpriced compared to other options.

One standout feature of this cafe is the food presentation; each dish is served with an artistic touch, making it Instagram-worthy.

I also sampled their tiramisu, honey cakes, and latte. The tiramisu was classic and creamy, while the honey cakes were light and flavorful. The latte was perfectly smooth and frothy.

Crome London also offers a variety of French toast options, including the berry best, maple syrup, chocoholic, and lotus and banana.

They also serve brunch items like Benedict French toast and smashed avocado French toast, along with fried chicken and sweet brioche.

However, my experience was not without its drawbacks. On one visit, I waited for half an hour without anyone checking on me, which was disappointing. Given the cafe’s welcoming atmosphere, I expected better service.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Onda’ Coffee in Riyadh

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Updated 01 June 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Onda’ Coffee in Riyadh

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  • Onda offers a range of pre-packaged pastries, such as croissants in plain, cheese, and zaatar flavors

With several branches across Riyadh, Onda is a quiet, cozy coffee shop that offers a peaceful setting — ideal for studying or working.

Music, if played, is usually kept at a low volume, which helps maintain a calm atmosphere.

The menu includes a variety of hot and cold beverages, such as espresso-based drinks, iced teas, and seasonal options like hot chocolate raspberry and Arabian latte.

While the cold drinks include flavored iced teas like raspberry and peach, these are made with syrups rather than fresh fruit.

Onda also offers a range of pre-packaged pastries, such as croissants in plain, cheese, and zaatar flavors. These are reheated on-site, which is common in many Riyadh cafes, but there is no in-house bakery.

The interiors are simple and calming, with blue and white decor, comfortable seating, and plenty of charging outlets. Each location features a small bookshelf for guests to browse, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Outdoor seating — especially in the Diplomatic Quarter — is a nice touch, with some locations offering views of lively streets.

Onda is also open from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m., making it a convenient spot for both early risers and night owls.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Tar’fay cafe in Alkhobar

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Updated 31 May 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Tar’fay cafe in Alkhobar

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  • Tar’fay hosts a treasure trove of items and every space is full of vibrant and inspiring art to help fuel your creative energy as you fuel up on caffeine

In historic northern Alkhobar — where tradition and the contemporary collide — lies a quintessential Eastern Province cafe: The eclectic and quirky world of Tar’fay.

A kaleidoscope of color and craft, the cafe is the best-kept local secret.

Everything we tried was delicious — their famous cake slice, affectionately known as “cake heart of Khobar,” features a tiny red heart in the corner and goes for SR15 ($4).

Opened in 2023, the cafe is the brainchild of a Saudi woman creative whose name it proudly carries. More than just a cafe, Tar’fay hosts a variety of artsy events; their recent calendar has been packed with workshops like junk journaling, rubber-stamp making and a teddy bear workshop.

This is the place where you would take someone from out of town to show them the aura and essence of Alkhobar.

It is also the spot in which locals park their laptops and work while sipping on some coffee or matcha.

Tar’fay hosts a treasure trove of items and every space is full of vibrant and inspiring art to help fuel your creative energy as you fuel up on caffeine. They even have fun mugs that feel like a hug for your hands.

It is an Instagram and TikTok haven but also a great spot to slow down and delve into a physical book — many of which are supplied on the coffee tables.

Tar’fay is a gathering space for creatives with a large communal table and plenty of nooks to nestle in and read, or scroll on your phone.

The cafe is open daily. Check out Tar’fay’s Instagram page for more @tarfay.sa.