Rayan Maimani and Homam Bogary aren’t typical Saudis. Not content to just mull along with their day jobs, they chose to start their very own gourmet sweet and dates business. While other men their age may be whistling away their youth, Rayan and Homam have been spending all their spare time working on their latest venture. “Tamraty Al Momayazah”, or “Distinctive Dates”, is described as a gourmet date store with a difference.
The duo decided to start a family business after Rayan came back from the US early in 2009 after completing his degree. Within a few months they had sketched out their idea and the concept of Tamraty was born.
The personal touches are what make this business unique. For example, all guests are welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee and given a tour of the products on offer. Staff have an excellent knowledge of the numerous varieties of dates on offer in Tamraty.
What really sets Tamraty apart from the competition however, are the exclusive sweets on offer. Take the Momayazah for example. These small glossy balls of caramel look like marbles.
You expect them to be hard based on their appearance, but risk a bite, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the satisfying crunch that follows.
The Mamool is also different here. Baked by the duo’s grandmother, these sweet cakes are as home made as you can get, and you can really taste the difference.
As for the dates, varieties from across the Kingdom are available, but the owners are particularly proud of their Medjool dates, which are dark, smooth and creamy, almost like eating molten toffee. Presentation is key, something the pair has down to a tee. Seasonal dates are cleaned, washed and offered for the same price as anywhere else in the market.
Special trays and platters of dates are also available, but with a twist. For example, you can have an array of dates wrapped up in the form of a small palm tree for something really different. Rayan explained their ambition is “to do what New Zealand did for the Kiwi.”
They are quick to add that all of the offerings at Tamraty are unique and custom made for the store. For example, Tamraty’s selection of date sweets include imaginative ingredients such as cornflakes, coconut, caramel and even new variations of sweet.
For example, you can actually get a pistachio mixed date ball. These small spheres are tiny little bites, rich and satisfying and an indulgent treat. Their mouthful sized mini date cakes are also fantastic.
Tamoor the mascot is surely also a first for a sweet shop in Jeddah. It’s certainly quirky. A large legged date with cartoon like eyes stares out through the windows at passers-by or those approaching the store. It didn’t surprise me to learn that a family member also created the design. Homam’s sister was responsible for all the branding and logo design, right down to the packaging. Everything is Saudi made, said the cousins.
All in all, there’s plenty on offer at Tamraty. If you’re looking for a new source of dates in Jeddah, consider it a fresh take on traditional Saudi sweets.
Tel: 02 2902385
Location: Al Murjan Street