Bahrain is where Gulf cool goes off-script. An island nation that blends old-soul charm with a sharp, modern edge. Think seaside sunsets, art-drenched alleys, neon cafés, and a rhythm that’s softer than Dubai and louder than you expect. It’s intimate, effortless, and quietly confident; the kind of place you slip into and instantly feel like a regular. A little pearl-diver nostalgia, a little rooftop-at-golden-hour.
This week, to take us through it, KHAMSA asked Salwa Attiga (@salwaattiga on Instagram) about her favorite hidden spots in Bahrain.
Born in the U.S., shaped by Dubai, and rooted in Palestinian, Jordanian, and Libyan heritage she’s a cross-cultural storyteller. Salwa holds a Communications degree from Northeastern University, a Master’s in Strategic Marketing from Imperial College London, and a career that spans New York’s luxury PR scene to the Middle East’s most exciting creative projects.
Between launching her Pilates brand sCore (@s__core on Instagram) and steering regional campaigns for MISSONI, MOSCHINO, GIANVITO ROSSI, VACHERON CONSTANTIN, and more, she has mastered the art of shaping narratives and destinations.
Bahrain doesn’t shout. It whispers stories, builds memories, then surprises you with warmth when you least expect it. Says Salwa
I moved from New York to be with my family in Bahrain during the pandemic – two whirlwind years of big changes, new routines, and finding calm in corners of this island I didn’t even know existed. Since then, Bahrain has become more than a stopover. It’s home.
Top Must-Visit Food Spots
Cafés & Coffee Spots
Green Bar Café (Seef / Bahrain Fort) – “My all-time favorite: wholesome, fresh, iconic”.
Grind – “Minimalist, consistent and cozy.”
Fresh – “Bahrain’s first superfood cafe – obsessed with their smoothies and acai!”
Glo Café – “Love their matcha – lots of gluten free, sugar free and dairy free options.
Plant Café – “Bahrain’s first 100% plant-based restaurant. LOVE!”
Breakfast / Brunch
The Orangery (multiple branches) – “Floral, and timeless.”
Ritz Gourmet Lounge (Seef) – “A Bahrain classic, elegant mornings if you feel like a bit of luxury.”
Villa Mamas (Saar) – “Go for the traditional Bahraini breakfast.”
My Café (Adliya) – “Warm, reliable, and always delicious.”
Lunch / Dinner
Mirai (Adliya) – “Japanese, always perfection. My forever favorite.”
Ramenara (Seef)
If you’re craving ramen or a comforting bowl after a long day; warm, inviting, and creative.
Avli by Tashas (Block 338) – “Greek chic. Mediterranean-meets-Bahrain, with warmth, good vibes, and great food.”
CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Four Seasons Bahrain Bay) – “The best steak in town.”
Biba (Bahrain Bay) – “Mediterranean comfort by the water, mezze-style, friendly and easy.”
Authentic / Local
JASMI’S!!!!!
My absolute favorite, only in Bahrain. Order the Chickee Chicken – trust me, it hits every single time.
Agaily & Karak (multiple locations) – Simple, nostalgic, perfect.
I always say Bahrain has a softness to it – a warmth you feel the moment you land. The food, the culture, the sunsets, the people… it’s the kind of place that surprises you in the best way. Once you experience the island properly, you understand why those of us who love it… really love it.
Best Places for Sundowners / Rooftops
Orla Bahrain – “The perfect blend of seaside energy, music, and sunset tones.”
The sunsets in Bahrain are unreal – gold, soft pink, and warm, just like the island’s energy.
Thai Lounge (The Ritz-Carlton, Seef) – “The spot for golden hour.”
Haus (Block 338) — “Lively, warm and made for evenings that stretch into stories.”
There is something so cinematic about watching the Bahrain sun melt into the sea – each rooftop becomes a front-row seat.
Roka (Bahrain Harbour) — “Japanese robata with a view.”
Best Places for Shopping
Bahrain makes shopping calm and enjoyable – no chaos, just good taste everywhere.
City Centre Bahrain – “All types of shops, a go-to shopping experience, people’s favorite.”
Al Aali Mall (Seef) – “For those calm, curated shopping vibes.”
The Avenues (Bahrain Bay) – “Waterfront shopping + restaurants.”
Marassi Galleria (Diyar Al Muharraq) – “The kingdom’s best retail mix.”
Must-Visit Cultural Spots
This is where Bahrain shines — rich history, warm people, and culture that feels lived-in and soulful.
Bahrain National Museum (Manama) – “When you want to feel Bahrain’s soul.”
Bahrain Fort (Seef) – “Dreamy at sunset; very “old Arabia.”
Old Muharraq Houses & Souq (Muharraq) – “Beautifully restored culture spots”.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque (Juffair)
An architectural and cultural must-see. Stunning domes, peaceful halls.
Tree of Life (Sakhir) – “A true Bahrain icon.”
Walking through these places feels like time stands still.
Best Boutique Hotels
The Merchant House (Manama) – “First 5 star boutique hotel in Bahrain. Artsy, stylish & intimate.”
Palmyard Hotel – “A boutique escape in the heart of Adliya.”
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain (Seef) – “Not boutique, but my personal favorite — unmatched service, beach, vibe.”
Four Seasons – “Also not boutique, but iconic. Truly a landmark stay.”
Underrated Places
Jarada Island – A sandbank paradise only reachable by boat.”
The Bahrain Airport — “Genuinely one of the best airports in the region.”
Bahrain in Winter is unmatched: cozy nights, festive vibes, and that soft winter breeze that reminds you why island life is a gift.
Wellness Scene
Bahrain has a quiet wellness rhythm — the kind that’s less about intensity and more about feeling grounded, connected, and held. And for me, this island will forever be where my wellness journey truly bloomed.
sCore – My heart project
I founded sCore in 2020, at the peak of the pandemic, when the world felt uncertain and still. I was teaching my mat Pilates classes from Bahrain — first online, then slowly to the Bahraini community who welcomed me with so much kindness and warmth.
For something high-energy and structured, Barry’s is always a great option. And if you go, Graham is my absolute favorite — he knows exactly how to push you without overwhelming you.
Walking at The Ritz-Carlton — My ultimate reset
My best workout in Bahrain isn’t a class — it’s walking along the paths of The Ritz-Carlton. The water, the gardens, the breeze… it’s the one place where I fully switch off. No music, no calls, no rush — just breath, movement, and peace.
What Should You Avoid?
Adliya on weekends – “Charming, yes, but also chaotic. Go if you must — or go earlier in the week.”
Must-Pack Items
- SPF 50 — non-negotiable.
- Sunglasses + Hat — the island sun is strong. (pics of me in sunglasses and hat in shared album)
- Tower 28 SOS spray – stay refreshed.
- Light, breathable fabrics (or a light jacket in winter).
- Hydrating skincare — the AC indoors can be drying.
- Comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking a lot, I love being in my Asics or Nike p6000 at all times.
- A water bottle & good playlist – I love playing my music and just cruising around.
Tips & Tricks to Tackle the City
- A CAR — the island is easy to navigate: north → south in under an hour.
- Hydrate like it’s a lifestyle — always.
- Try both sides of Bahrain — the modern bits and the traditional pockets. Don’t choose. Do both.
- Enjoy the coastline — beach days at the Ritz or Bahrain Bay walks are a must.
- Go café-hopping — the coffee culture here is real and delicious.
- Let the island slow you down — you don’t always need to rush; sometimes the magic is in quiet cafes or random lanes.
- Trust the locals & trusted favorites— they’ll show you Bahrain’s real heartbeat.
