JEDDAH’S CULINARY GEM: TAQMEERA RESTAURANT
Nestled in a historic building in Madina, Taqmeera is a culinary treasure that beautifully encapsulates the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Named after the golden-brown crust on freshly baked bread, Taqmeera is housed in a building that dates back over 80 years.
Originally owned by Ghazi Al-Maghzawi, the son of Saleh Al-Maghzawi who served in the Prophet’s Chamber in Madinah, the building has been lovingly restored to its former glory.
Although the restaurant owners do not own the building, they have invested in its renovation, preserving its traditional character while adding modern touches.
The founders of the restaurant believe that by showcasing the city’s cultural traditions, they can foster a deeper appreciation for Madinah’s history and people.
Saleh Shahini, the visionary behind Taqmeera, transformed the building into a restaurant to attract international visitors and introduce them to traditional Madini dishes with a contemporary twist.
Shahini describes Taqmeera as “a revival of Madinah’s urban symbolism,” aiming to blend the city’s past with its present in a captivating way.
Immersive Dining Experience
The historic building housing Taqmeera features three floors, each with three rooms, including a kitchen and two traditional sitting areas called Al-Tarbi’a. The spacious rooms exude warmth and hospitality, inviting guests to relax and enjoy.
Guests are treated to floor seating and classic chairs, enhancing the nostalgic charm of the restaurant.
The menu at Taqmeera showcases a variety of urban Hijazi dishes, highlighting the region’s culinary traditions. From Madinah’s unique fatoot to the breakfast feast ta’ateemah, guests are in for a flavorful experience.
For hot beverages, Taqmeera offers the famous Madini tea with fresh mint leaves, habaq, and Madini roses, paired with traditional shortbread cookies called mamoul.
Local Specialties and Global Appeal
Taqmeera’s offerings have garnered a loyal following among both local and global customers, with homemade jams, pickles, mamoul, and ghraybeh being popular choices.
Visitors from around the world, including pilgrims from Turkey, the US, and Kuwait, have praised Taqmeera for its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and the unique character of Madinah’s residents.