Zaitoon Restaurant — Restaurant in Medina Province

Newer of the two locations in Masjid Nabwi area (this one is located on the Qibla side in a newly built museum/mall). We saw the good reviews and went in with some doubts if it will live up to those and it definitely did.

The restaurant does get busy after salahs so be aware. It is an order & pay first at counter and then hand the receipt to the server. There are ample menus that you can take and even sit at table to decide, then order. Prices are great. You can pay by AMEX, VISA/other cards or cash.

We ordered chicken shawarma and chicken biryani.

The shawarma was ample size but tasty and chicken biryani was delicious. Biryani looked filled with spices but it was just the right amount of spice while not compromising flavour (As per westernized Pakistani). Do not expect spicy Pakistani biryani because you will be disappointed. Biryani was good enough size to share.

The server, Fahad was friendly and even asked us if we wanted something else when we were about to finish to which we ordered mango ice cream for only 10 SAR. The ice cream tasted like fresh mangoes and was good enough to share between 2 people.

The place also has multiple hand washing areas with soap which is definitely a plus point.

I would be recommending the place to my friends and family when they come to Madinah. May الله SWT bless this business and put barakah in...

Ordered beef burgers, zinger burgers, a chicken shawarma and Pepsis. To me it seems like this restaurant has a high rating because the waiters tell you to give a high rating and put their name in your review after their service.

The beef burgers were absolutely dreadful. It lacked flavour. The burger itself had a funny meaty taste. 👎

The zinger burgers were decent. It lacked flavour. Compliments on the chicken itself which had a crunch right through 👍

The chips that came with both burgers were below average for a restaurant of this sort. 👎

The chicken shawarma is definitely nothing to boast about. It lacked flavour and had a certain Indian spice taste which I did not like. It also didn't have much chicken. 👎

Thankfully I had the Pepsi on standby to wash the food down.

The service is not "restaurant" service. It's more like a takeaway. The staff are friendly though.

I don't understand how this restaurant is getting away with serving food of such a quality.

For the price, it's definitely...

Zaitoon Restaurant has become my preferred dining spot in Madinah, whether at the Taiba Center branch or the one located in the As safiyyah museum and park. The latter, however, holds a special place for me as it’s spacious, less crowded, and far easier to find a table. Their chicken and beef biryani remain my consistent favorites, though the curries are equally worth experiencing. What truly sets Zaitoon apart is the staff: exceptionally courteous, attentive, and genuinely hospitable. Every interaction reflects respect and care, ensuring that guests are well served. I must particularly acknowledge Asif Bhai at the As-Safiyyah Museum branch, whose service leaves a lasting impression. And, of course, no visit feels complete without their mango and vanilla ice cream, which has quickly become a personal indulgence. A perfect spot for desis or those who love to try...