Afshan Aziz

3 days ago | arabnews.com | Afshan Aziz

JEDDAH: A children’s cookbook showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary heritage has won one of the world’s top awards. Layal Idriss received the 2024 “Best in the World” Gourmand Cookbook Award in Cascais, Portugal, recently for her work as the creative director, publisher, and visual storyteller behind the “Aklana” book series. The series is an ambitious project documenting the Kingdom’s culinary culture for children.

1 week ago | arabnews.com | Afshan Aziz

JEDDAH: Hayy Jameel has hosted Recess: Closing Conversations to mark the conclusion of its flagship after-school initiative for teenagers. The evening offered a platform to revisit the transformative journey of the program’s first cohort, and featured thoughtful exchanges with the learning team at Hayy, along with mentors who guided the students through the months-long experience.

1 week ago | arabnews.com | Afshan Aziz

JEDDAH: With digital innovation taking place at a rapid pace, Awaser, a mobile application developed in Saudi Arabia, is at the forefront of a quiet transformation in the Kingdom’s matchmaking traditions. It offers a modern approach to marriage, but remains firmly rooted in cultural and religious values. Founded by psychiatrist Dr. Mohammed Alolayan, Awaser is not just a dating platform but a dedicated space for individuals and families with the intention of forming lasting marriages.

1 week ago | arabnews.pk | Afshan Aziz

RIYADH: The Mediterranean dining venue The Lighthouse, founded in the UAE, recently opened its first Saudi outpost in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. “I like to describe the Lighthouse menu as a celebration of fresh and seasonal ingredients that represent the Mediterranean culturally as a whole,” says its executive chef Davisha Burrowes. “I think it’s a perfect balance between East and West.”  Burrowes — who grew up in Barbados — caught the culinary bug early.

1 week ago | arabnews.com | Afshan Aziz

Located in the Al-Zahra District of Jeddah, UPPER is a burger spot that focuses on a small menu built around quality ingredients and generous portions. While the menu is limited, the flavors are solid, and the casual setting makes it a decent option for those who enjoy burgers. The wagyu beef burgers are the main draw. Served on a pretzel bun with either white or yellow cheese, the patties are juicy and well-prepared.