Jeddah isn't just the gateway to Hajj — it's Saudi Arabia's unofficial seafood capital. Sitting on a Red Sea coastline rich in marine life, the city has built its culinary identity around grilled, fried, and rice-cooked fish, and it shows in the sheer density of seafood restaurants ranging from upscale to unpretentiously local.

The traditional way to eat fish in Jeddah starts with picking your own: many restaurants, especially in older neighborhoods near the historic port, display fresh fish on ice or in tanks for customers to choose by type and size before it's cooked to order — grilled, fried, or as "sayadiyah," served over spiced yellow rice with caramelized onions. Look for local favorites like hammour (grouper), najil, and shaari if they're on the menu — staples along the western coast.

For dining spots, Corniche-front restaurants are especially popular for combining a meal with Red Sea views — places like Al-Sagala, known for fresh grilled fish and shrimp with a striking waterfront setting, or Al-Safina, which runs a rich all-day seafood buffet. Those after a more refined experience will find dedicated seafood restaurants offering a full dining experience in polished surroundings, while simpler, more local spots offer lower prices and a family-friendly atmosphere, some with private family corners.

Beyond grilled fish, shrimp dishes deserve a spot on your list — some restaurants dedicate entire sections to shrimp prepared multiple ways, from grilled to garlic-butter. For those wanting more variety, open buffets combine several types of fish, shellfish, and shrimp with side dishes of rice, soups, and salads — a practical option for larger families or groups.

Practical tip: avoid weekend evening peak hours if you prefer a quieter meal, and book ahead at waterfront restaurants to secure a table with a view. If you like exploring off the beaten path, ask locals about small, lesser-known spots in neighborhoods near central Jeddah — they're often the most authentic in both flavor and price.

In short, no trip to Jeddah is complete without a plate of fresh fish by the Red Sea, whether at an upscale restaurant with a panoramic view or a modest local corner filled with the smell of charcoal and spice.