The hours tracking prayer times at the Grand Mosque in Makkah serves as important indicator for meals in the restaurants in the central area around the mosque. Pilgrims from 120 countries come in droves to these eateries during the Umrah and Haj seasons.
Overcrowding, booked seats and voices are everywhere. Delicious aromas of local popular foods from restaurants permeate the air that is buzzing with activity. Tables become meeting places for pilgrims from different nationalities.
Indonesian restaurants are among the most sought after restaurants as people from all nationalities frequent them. The demand on them has increased so much they now have special sections for families.
“Some of the most prominent foods presented in these eateries are satay, sambal, curries, Javanese macaroni, nasi shampor and paso,” said Mohammad Flmpan, a supervisor in one of the restaurants.
He added demand for these foods is certainly much more than what can be supplied and many are now ordering takeaway in their residences.
The holy capital is different from any other area in the Kingdom because of the many nationalities there that are willing to spend money on food. The restaurants, particularly the ones near the Grand Mosque, aim to cater to people from different countries, such as Asian and Maghreb countries.
Indonesian, Indian, Pakistani and Yemeni restaurants are in abundance in Makkah. Experts say their volume of returns amount to more than SR5 billion.
Some of these outlets are simple in decor but the aroma of Biryani rice with broth, stock and chapattis hold a promise of some of the best dishes in the Pakistani and Indian cuisine.
The same goes for Yemeni restaurants located in the residential areas of the pilgrims. These too offer tasty traditional dishes and have built a good customer base.
Makkah restaurants cater to a multitude of tastes
