10 Un-Known Facts About AlBaik Rise in Saudi Arabia

Al Baik stands out as an exceptional brand, from humble beginnings to culinary excellence in Saudi Arabia. Its story is an excellent example of entrepreneurial spirit and enduring popularity. It operates more than 120 locations throughout Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Bahrain, and Egypt.

Over the past five decades, its authentic taste has won the hearts of millions. It is known for its legendary broasted and fried chicken with unique flavors everyone loves. Here are ten lesser-known facts about this iconic Saudi brand:

The name of AlBaik was “BROAST RESTAURANT”

Many of us don’t know that Albaik’s first name was “BROAST RESTAURANT,” reflecting its focus on pressure-fried chicken. The company was officially registered as “AlBaik” in 1986 in Saudi Arabia. 

The first AlBaik branch was in Sharfiyah

The first AlBaik branch started in an old warehouse in Sharfiyah, Jeddah, in 1974. The second Broast Restaurant eventually debuted in March 1976 in the Al Dakheel Building, the original location chosen to introduce the chain.

The founder-owner of Al Baik

AlBaik started his journey in 1974 with Shakour Abu Ghazalah in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The name “AlBaik” is derived from Arabic, which means “My Family”. Just after five months of the restaurant’s opening, the owner of the restaurant passed away due to cancer. After their death, his son Ihsan Abu Ghazalah took over the family business. 

Al Baik Chicken Broast Recipe

In 1984, after three years of extensive research, AlBaik introduced a secret recipe that became very popular. The recipe included the secret herbs and spices that give the fried chicken its distinctive flavor. This recipe has remained unchanged to this day.

“We learned everything from our father,” said Ihsan Shakkour AbuGhazalah, Chairman of the Board of AL BAIK Food Systems Group of Companies.

AlBaik had 400 competitors

When broast chicken was initially introduced to Saudi Arabia, AlBaik was the first restaurant in the Kingdom to serve it. Soon after Al Baik’s breakthrough, some 400 restaurants in Saudi Arabia started serving it.

AlBaik in Makkah 1990

After achieving significant success in Jeddah, AlBaik expanded its operations to other cities in Saudi Arabia. In 1990, Al Baik opened its first branch in Makkah, which led to increased popularity in Saudi Arabia. This branch is still on Umm ul Qura Road, and anyone visiting Haram would likely have seen it.

AlBaik and Charity

The main reason behind AlBaik’s popularity and success is its commitment to charity. After selling each broasted and fried chicken, AlBaik committed to donating one riyal to charity. I will remember that during the lockdown, AlBaik gave free food to 10,000 poor houses daily.

The meaning of Al Baik

Many people don’t know the actual meaning of AlBaik. The name “AlBaik” is derived from Arabic, which means “My Family”. Thus, you should be prepared to respond if someone asks you what Al Baik means.

Signature Garlic Sauce 

Al Baik’s garlic sauce is legendary. This creamy and flavorful sauce adds a unique taste that elevates any dish on the menu. Whether you’re dipping your chicken, fries, shrimp, or onion rings, the garlic sauce adds flavor to any meal that keeps you returning for more.

One of the most beloved things about Al Baik is its signature garlic sauce, known as “Thomb.” This unique sauce is exclusive to Al Baik and cannot be found in any other restaurant in the Kingdom.

Affordable AlBaik Meal Pricing 

Despite its high-quality offerings, AlBaik maintains relatively affordable prices, with meals generally costing around 30% less than similar international fast-food chains like McDonald’s and KFC. This has contributed to the brand’s widespread popularity among Saudi consumers. 

• These fascinating facts showcase the rich history, innovative spirit, and enduring appeal of the Al Baik brand, which has become integral to Saudi culture and nostalgia over the past five decades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved institution, Al Baik’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, quality, and community engagement.