Swordfish Blends Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern Flavors in Jeddah
Swordfish, a restaurant and retail shop in Jeddah’s Ash Shati district, distinguishes itself by combining Mediterranean cuisine with Asian and Middle Eastern influences. The venue offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with subtle retro touches evoking the 1960s, including a central coffee station that reinforces its relaxed, all-day appeal. Guests can browse shelves stocked with imported food products, many used in the restaurant’s kitchen, while Wagyu beef, white fish, and salmon are displayed in refrigerated cases, creating the ambiance of a fancy fish market.
Starters: Sweet Green Salad and Wagyu Hummus
Dinner began with the sweet green salad, featuring kale, wild rocket, green apple, grapes, and goat cheese. The mix of textures—sweet, sour, and nutty—was balanced by the house dressing, which tied the ingredients together without overwhelming them. The Wagyu hummus followed, served with toasted sourdough bread. The creamy hummus provided a perfect foundation for tender Wagyu beef, with the Wagyu sauce and olive oil adding richness and depth.
Signature Beetroot-Cured Salmon Stands Out
A standout starter was the signature beetroot-cured salmon. The raw salmon, lightly marinated in beetroot, was accompanied by pickled ginger. The beetroot imparted a touch of sweetness and a contrasting color, making the dish visually appealing and flavorful.
Mains: Beef Taco, Black Bao, and Truffle Burger
For mains, the beef taco featured slow-cooked beef that was tender and melting, with a crisp taco shell providing a satisfying crunch. A touch of tanginess cut through the richness of the meat, creating a well-balanced bite. The black bao offered an unexpected twist with its deep black color; the bao was light and fluffy, encasing crispy fried prawn that delivered both texture and flavor. The truffle burger arrived with a thick beef patty cooked medium-well, retaining enough moisture for a juicy bite. However, despite its name, the dish lacked a defining truffle character that would set it apart from other gourmet burgers. A touch of truffle seasoning or truffle-infused flavor on the accompanying fries could have tied the components together more effectively.
Desserts: San Sebastian Cheesecake and French Toast
For dessert, the San Sebastian cheesecake was served with dark chocolate sauce and raspberry jam, which elevated the dish. It was paired with a flat white presented with delicate latte art. The French toast featured a creamy, orange-infused sauce layered with toffee notes; the citrus brought freshness while the toffee added warmth, creating a comforting dessert.
