Khaybar Restaurant Tips by MM212

Bukhari Table Restaurant (al-Ma'ida al-Bukhari): Eating with the locals

Although it has plenty of history, Khaybar is not a tourist town. It does, however, make a perfect stop for lunch along the long drive from the Medina airport to al-Ula and Mada'in Saleh. One place to eat is this Bukhari Table Restaurant (Mat'am al-Ma'ida al-Bukhari), which is located on the motorway which cuts through the modern town, known here as King Abdulaziz Road. Only locals here, including many immigrants from Indian sub-continent, so there is nothing luxurious about the restaurant. It does serve savoury grills and a couple of local Hijazi dishes including Bukhari rice (flavoured with aromatic spices and served with chicken). We chose to eat grilled chicken served on a yellow rice, which was quite delicious. Given that only plastic spoons were provided, eating the chicken was a challenge so bare hands were indispensable! The restaurant only has two tables, but has a large raised, carpeted platform to replicate the bedouin and provincial practice of eating on the floor. It is part of the fun experience!

Address: King Abdulaziz Road

Comparison: less expensive than average

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 3

Theme: Middle Eastern