曼达林阿尔沙马尔酒店公寓

Get your breakfast fix at this contemporary Saudi eatery located a short distance from Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District. Served from early morning to mid-afternoon, the food here proudly represents the country’s regions, particularly in its ingredients and spices. Start with the Mirzam platter, a selection of appetisers including hummus, foul and salads all served with warm flatbreads fresh from the oven. Their Egg Maghash and Kibda Hijazi – aka lamb’s liver – are must haves but do leave room for dessert – the maasoub is the chef’s speciality – and come with friends as sharing is enco

This is Chef Hisham Baeshen’s first restaurant. The cooking is inspired by five Saudi regions and sprinkled with some dishes from various Middle Eastern countries. The eatery, whose name translates as ‘in your heart’, is set in a large open room with an eye-catching tree trunk suspended from the ceiling. Be sure to come in a big group as portions are perfect for sharing. Recommendations include their samosas, seabream in molasses stew and the sharqawi rice topped with caramelised onions. Finish off the meal with the queen of Arabic desserts, the kunafah.

Lebanese owner Dalal Haj Ibrahim has created a cosy restaurant offering a wide selection of delightful dishes inspired by her memories of home. Mixed in with a few Turkish influences and other regions, the menu boasts plenty of tasty options, ranging from beef or cheese sambousek, fresh salads, dips and mains focused on grilled kebabs. The desserts continue the homely feel thanks to the traditional flavours – the mahalabia with honey is especially noteworthy. In the cooler months, opt for a seat on the terrace.

Overlooking the Financial Plaza in KAFD is this branch of Alain Ducasse’s Benoit. This classic French bistro de luxe is a restaurant on the ground level and a café on the first floor. Bright red banquettes and vintage chandeliers hanging from the ceiling add a classic touch to the otherwise modern and futuristic architecture of the district. It’s like being in a tiny corner of France as the vocals Édith Piaff and Charles Aznavour play in the background, while the menu offers escargot, pâté en croûte and soufflé au chocolat. Some subtle Middle Eastern influences are evident too, like the Camel

Italian classics find themselves in the heart of KAFD. This elegant restaurant sits at the footsteps of one the many modern skyscrapers and comes dressed with velvet armchairs, large bouquets of fresh flowers and art pieces hung on the walls. The charming team is happy to guide you through the extensive menu which is packed with favourites like gnocchi alla Sorrentina, veal chop alla Milanese or the feather-light Amalfi lemon soufflé. If you’re working in the area, head over for the business lunch – it’s a steal.

Korean barbeque meets a fun and elevated setting. It’s on you to cook up the meat as you like on a hot plate at the centre of the table. Get yourselves a couple of starters to share before choosing your preferred cut of beef. Expect a generously portioned selection of pickles and kimchi to complement your barbeque experience. If you’re still looking to prolong your evening, make your way to the nearby bowling alley and cinema for the ultimate fun night out.

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