Chef Nawal AlKhalawi Cooks Up Saudi-Japanese Fusion at ROKA Jeddah

Renowned Saudi chef Nawal AlKhalawi returns to her hometown for an exclusive three-day collaboration with Japanese restaurant ROKA Jeddah from December 4th to the 6th.

"Jeddah has long been a cultural crossroads where diverse cuisines come together,” Chef AlKhalawi tells SceneNowSaudi. “This partnership with ROKA is an opportunity to showcase the rich, hearty flavors of Saudi Arabia, while blending them with the sophistication of Japanese techniques.”

Curated by Chef AlKhalawi and ROKA’s culinary team, who have worked together once before in Riyadh, the menu includes dishes such as aburi nigiri with Saudi-inspired toppings, a barley jareesh hot pot with chicken and black lime, and zaatar roasted cauliflower with spicy tahini sauce. Other highlights include Saudi spiced najel fish served with sayadia rice and tamarind sauce, as well as a signature dessert platter featuring sticky date pudding, camel milk gelato and Saudi coffee granola.

The exclusive tasting menu will be available for SAR 240 per person, with select dishes offered à la carte. ROKA’s regular menu will also be available throughout the event. The event will feature live DJ sets from 8:00 PM to midnight each evening.

The limited-time dining experience will take place at ROKA Jeddah, located at Cascade Jeddah Walk. Dinner will be served from 6:00 PM to midnight on December  4th and the 5th, and from 1:00 PM to 12:30 AM on December 6th.