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If you plan to dine at Al-Kofeia, be sure to take the bus or Uber — finding a parking space at this restaurant can be challenging, especially on weekends or during busy periods.

Located in the heart of Al-Tahlia Street, the restaurant serves mainly Palestinian cuisine, as well as a few other Middle Eastern dishes, including Jordanian mansaf and Saudi kabsa.

When I entered, I immediately noticed the decor. Although the Palestinian identity is clearly evident, the interior seems a bit cluttered, with random pieces of art, quotes, and signs.

The waiter recommended I try the Jordanian mansaf, maqluba, or the grape leaves with moza — the most popular items on the menu. 

It was my first taste of mansaf, and I had to take a sip of water with almost every mouthful. The spices were perfectly measured, but the dish was salty, mushy overall, and lacked texture.

The grape leaves, however, were delicious and well-cooked.

Considering the presentation and range of ingredients, many of the items on the menu were quite expensive. For example, the mansaf cost SR76 ($20), much higher than usual rates.

A pleasant surprise was the availability of a prayer room and a breastfeeding room for women, which shows consideration for customers. Al-Kofeia clearly welcomes all family members.

Originally known for its macaron-making expertise when it first opened in Jeddah, Pink Camel has expanded its offerings and reopened in AlUla this September as a full-fledged dining destination.

Set amid the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, the cafe now combines its dessert-focused legacy with an array of savory dishes, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

During my visit, I tried a variety of dishes, starting with the spicy labneh poached eggs, which stood out as one of the best options on the menu.

The creamy labneh, paired with zaatar, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, created a harmonious blend of bold and tangy flavors that made for an excellent breakfast.

The grilled halloumi on sourdough was another highlight, with perfectly seared halloumi atop rustic sourdough bread. Simple, but incredibly satisfying.

On the sweeter side, the pain au chocolat lived up to expectations. It was buttery, flaky, and filled with just the right amount of rich chocolate, a classic done perfectly.

For those looking for a fresh and light option, the citrus acai bowl was a refreshing choice. It had a vibrant mix of citrus flavors that complemented the creamy acai base, making it ideal for vegans or anyone wanting a healthy start to the day.

Not every dish, however, hit the mark. The cauliflower pumpkin soup failed to leave a lasting impression, as it lacked the depth of flavor I was hoping for.

The pulled lamb brioche, while tender and served with a flavorful dipping sauce, felt overly heavy and indulgent for my taste. Lastly, the superfood salad was fresh but unremarkable, offering little to distinguish it from similar options elsewhere.

Overall, Pink Camel in AlUla is a charming spot with standout dishes that cater to a variety of tastes.

While not every dish was perfect, the highlights make it worth visiting, especially for breakfast or lighter meals.

With its unique location and evolving menu, Pink Camel continues to bring something special to AlUla’s growing food scene.