In the bustling city of Jeddah, where the Arabian Gulf meets the Red Sea, lies a hidden gem that transports you to the enchanting landscapes of Santorini, Greece. Alieía By The Sea, a culinary haven of fresh Greek flavors, is not just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience that tantalizes your taste buds while offering breathtaking sea views that make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a Mediterranean paradise.
The Ambience
As you step into Alieía By The Sea, you are immediately greeted by the sea-inspired decor and a Greek-style whitewashed building that stands proudly on the water’s edge. The name “Alieía” itself, meaning a place where one goes fishing in Greek, sets the tone for the seafood adventure that awaits.
The interior of the restaurant is designed with an open layout and large windows that maximize the stunning sea views. A glass ceiling bathes the space in natural light, making the ambiance even more enchanting. Tall olive trees, reminiscent of those in Greece, serve as centrepieces, connecting diners to the rich Mediterranean heritage. The walls adorned with ceramics add a touch of rustic elegance, completing the immersive experience.
The Fresh Catch
One of the standout features of Alieía By The Sea is its commitment to serving the freshest seafood. The restaurant receives a shipment of fresh fish straight from Greece not once, but twice a week. This includes a delectable selection of sea bream, sea bass, Dover sole, and more. What truly sets Alieía apart is its policy of never freezing the fish, ensuring that every bite is bursting with the flavors of the sea. To complement its imported stock, the restaurant also offers fresh local specialties like najel and hamour, further enriching the menu.
The Culinary Journey Begins
As you settle into your seat, it’s time to embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Alieía By The Sea takes its mocktail menu seriously, offering a delightful array of refreshing options. The Desert Rendez-Vous, with its fresh and tangy blend of basil, pineapple, and ginger, is an instant favorite. For those looking for a spicy twist, Apollo’s Punch, with its unexpected combination of Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and raspberry puree, will surely leave a memorable impression.
Appetizers to Savor
To start your meal on a high note, indulge in a selection of appetizers that showcase the rich flavors of Greek cuisine. The tzatziki, a creamy Greek yogurt dip infused with cucumber, garlic, and dill, is a classic choice. Another must-try is the tyrokafteri, a delectable mix of feta cheese, yogurt, green chili, and olive oil. The accompanying herbed pita, freshly baked and irresistibly fluffy, is the perfect accompaniment, and you’ll find yourself reaching for more throughout your meal.
The Greek salad at Alieía is a standout, bursting with freshness and flavor. The eggplant chips, thinly sliced and lightly breaded, provide a delightful crunch that complements the other dishes perfectly. As you indulge in these appetizers, be sure to dip your pita into the restaurant’s specially pressed Greek olive oil, elevating your dining experience to new heights.
The Main Course
For the main course, the knowledgeable staff at Alieía By The Sea can guide you in making the perfect choice. During my visit, the grilled sea bream, sourced just hours before, was recommended. The white, fleshy fish was expertly grilled to perfection and filleted tableside, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to freshness. Paired with truffle pasta skioufichta, the dish offered a delightful harmony of flavors. The subtle truffle notes complemented the fish’s freshness, creating a culinary masterpiece. Don’t miss the chance to explore other favorites like Alieía’s lobster giouvetsi and the grilled tiger prawns, each promising a unique and satisfying experience.
Sweet Conclusions
A meal at Alieía By The Sea is not complete without indulging in their dessert offerings. The hot beverage menu surprises with the inclusion of white coffee, a rare find outside traditional Middle Eastern restaurants. The orange blossom infusion, a personal favorite, provides the perfect digestif to conclude your feast.
For the grand finale, Alieía presents its take on karidopita, a beloved Greek walnut cake. This rendition is a heavenly blend of warm chocolate mousse, walnuts, and vanilla ice cream, a delightful combination of lightness and decadence that will leave your taste buds singing.
Reservations and Sunset Views
Alieía By The Sea invites diners to experience its culinary magic from 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm. We highly recommend booking an early spot to fully immerse yourself in the exceptional seaside experience. As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a warm glow across the water, you’ll understand why there’s truly nothing quite like Alieía By The Sea in Jeddah.
For more information and reservations, visit Alieía’s official website.
