In the western suburbs of Medina, where gentle winds from the desert blow through, “Bait Sa’af” and “Yathrib” stand side by side. These two neighboring restaurants have gained attention for their immersive settings that recreate traditional dining experiences, capturing the spotlight on social media platforms like TikTok and earning passionate support from local Saudis. As their names suggest, they offer a rare opportunity to experience authentic Arabian cuisine in spaces that feel like stepping back in time to the good old days of Yathrib (Medina’s former name). Today, I’ll share my visit report to Bait Sa’af and Yathrib.
How It All Began
While planning my visit to Medina, I casually came across a striking video while scrolling through social media. It showed an immersive space that felt like stepping into “One Thousand and One Nights.” The interior featured traditional Arabian designs, with people relaxing while enjoying their meals. There was a mystical atmosphere that set it apart from modern restaurants.
The post had many likes, and the comments section was filled with enthusiastic support from locals. I decided to investigate more about this restaurant called “Yathrib.” Strangely, when searching on Google, I found the exact same establishment introduced as “Bait Sa’af.” Had there been a name change, or was there another reason? This mysterious quality only heightened my curiosity.
A Unique Guidance System Rooted in Culture
Yathrib (right) and Bait Sa’af (left) adjacent to each other in symmetry
Upon actually visiting, the mystery was solved. “Yathrib” and “Bait Sa’af” were operating as sister restaurants right next to each other. Even more interestingly, they employed a distinctly Saudi Arabian system where guests are directed to different establishments based on their demographics. Families are guided to “Yathrib,” while single men or male groups are directed to “Bait Sa’af,” showing meticulous cultural consideration.
At first, I didn’t understand the system and opened the gate to Yathrib, which is exclusively for families
Initially unaware of this system, I tried to check in at Yathrib, only to be directed to Bait Sa’af as a male guest. While separate dining spaces for men and women are common in Saudi Arabia, being guided to an entirely different restaurant was unusual, which immediately piqued my interest.
Being guided to Bait Sa’af next door as a solo male customer
Due to the location, arriving by public transportation is impractical. Using the local ride-hailing app “Careem” is wise, and locals typically visit in their own vehicles. Notably, these restaurants are so popular that weekend visits without reservations are nearly impossible, making advance booking essential.
Fantastical Spatial Design
Interior reminiscent of a traditional Hejaz household
Stepping into “Bait Sa’af,” you’re enveloped in a feeling of time travel. The interior, modeled after traditional Yathrib houses, creates a truly different world. It’s comparable to the setting of Najd Village in Riyadh.
The open courtyard. At night it’s illuminated, and I’m told you can dine here enjoying the cool evening breeze
After passing through the courtyard, you’re guided to a semi-private room set up as a terrace seat.
I was guided to a semi-private space
The commitment to spatial design extends to every detail. The style of dining on traditional carpets covering the entire floor epitomizes authentic Arabian dining. It feels like a theme park with its otherworldly atmosphere, yet there’s also a sense of nostalgia.
The indoor seating layout looks like this. This might be more comfortable on extremely hot or cold days.
Savoring Authentic Flavors
Menu is in Arabic only. The authentic atmosphere is unmistakable.
The menu is entirely in Arabic, and the staff only speak Arabic. There are no special accommodations for foreign tourists, reflecting an extremely local-oriented operation style. During ordering, I needed to communicate using my limited Arabic.
After placing your order, relax deeply against the cushions in your private room and wait for your meal to arrive.
For this visit, I ordered “Kabsa” and “Hareez,” two dishes that represent Saudi Arabian cuisine. Kabsa comes with a choice of meat, and I selected Mandi (goat meat). Shortly afterward, a generously portioned Kabsa on a large plate and steaming Hareez arrived. They were accompanied by chili sauce and salt for flavor variation, and plastic spoons were provided, perhaps as a consideration for foreign guests.
Behind the counter, kitchen staff can be seen preparing meat
Hareez (left) and Kabsa Mandi (right). The menu included calorie information, which gave me some idea of the portions, but it was still a very large serving for one person.
The Kabsa exceeded my expectations. The spicy aroma and meat juices from the Mandi created an exquisite harmony, bringing out unique umami flavors. The Mandi included not just lean meat but also fatty neck parts and liver, offering variety in taste. The portion was enough for at least two people, making it impossible to finish, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Kabsa is Saudi Arabia’s highly popular traditional dish. It’s a must-try during a stay in Saudi Arabia.
Hareez is a heart-warming dish infused with spice flavors. While often compared to Japanese rice porridge or Western oatmeal, it offers a deeper taste and richness that transcends these comparisons. The way it permeates a body that has been sweating was especially remarkable.
Personally, I really enjoyed this Hareez. The abundant use of pepper created a fragrant dish that soothed my travel fatigue.
Conclusion
Bait Sa’af and Yathrib offer immersive interiors but stand apart from commercialized tourist establishments as exceptionally authentic Saudi Arabian dining venues. While there are challenges with access and language barriers, these enhance the opportunity to experience genuine Saudi Arabian food culture. I strongly recommend these restaurants for the special experience they provide of enjoying authentic flavors in a traditional setting.
The only drawback might be their extreme popularity, making reservations difficult to secure after going viral on social media platforms like TikTok. If you’re considering a visit, advance reservations are definitely recommended.
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