Dank Sandwich in Riyadh has become a go-to destination for those craving filling sandwiches.
The menu offers a variety of options, with popular choices like the Philadelphia steak meal for SR39 ($10.40) which features tender steak and melted cheese, and the brisket meal known for its rich, smoky flavor.
For spice lovers, the dynamite meal brings a satisfying kick, while the crispy chicken meal delivers crunch and flavor.
Dank Sandwich also provides a variety of sides to enhance the experience, including classic French fries and sweet potato fries, which add balance to the hearty sandwiches.
For dessert, the choco marshmallow offers a sweet finish, and fresh juices like orange complement the bold flavors of the meals.
A minor drawback, however, is the pricing. While the meals are substantial and flavorful, they might appear a bit pricey for casual dining.
More affordable options could make Dank Sandwich even more appealing for regular visits.
Overall, Dank Sandwich in Riyadh impresses with generous portions and robust flavors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort food with a twist.
For more information, check their Instagram @dank_ksa.
Recipes for Success: Chef Garnaras Giorgos of Parea Greek Brasserie talks cooking with love
Updated 23 January 2025
Shyama Krishna Kumar
RIYADH: Parea Greek Brasserie, newly opened at the Hilton Riyadh Olaya, aims “to present Greek cuisine in a way that respects tradition but also embraces innovation,” head chef Garnaras Giorgos tells Arab News.
“Parea offers a unique experience, not only through the stunning scenery and view but also through my personal take on Greek cuisine. I bring flavors and memories from across Greece — from Cyprus to the Zagori mountains and northern Greece. What I aim to offer my guests is a taste of my journey, along with a deep appreciation for Santorini, where I spent five years learning to respect nature and use exceptional ingredients.”
Parea Greek Brasserie head chef Garnaras Giorgos. (Supplied)
The Greek chef says his grandfathers were his first mentors. “I vividly remember when I was four, standing alongside both my grandfathers — Panayioti and Yiorgo (whom I was named after). They were showing me how to prepare a whole lamb on the spit for our family celebrations. It’s a cherished memory I’ll never forget,” he explains.
“I’ve been in love with food since a very young age, and that passion is the main driving force behind my career,” he adds.
Here, he talks to Arab News about his time in Saudi Arabia, his top tip for amateur chefs and his management style.
What has it been like living and working in Saudi Arabia so far?
Having lived in various countries, what stands out most to me here is the sense of safety. I’ve never felt more secure. I’m still taking time to integrate into the local culture, which I deeply admire. I make it a point to explore new places in my free time.
What’s your top tip for amateurs?
Focus on using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. When you cook with what’s available at the right time of year, the results will always be delicious.
What one ingredient can instantly improve any dish?
Love! When you cook with love, the food is guaranteed to be full of flavor and soul.
When you go out to eat, do you find yourself critiquing the food?
I try to simply enjoy the moment and savor the flavors. I focus on the positives and appreciate the effort that goes into the dish, rather than being overly critical.
What’s your favorite cuisine to order?
It really depends on my mood. I can go from street food to a fine dining experience — I’m always eager to try something new.
What’s your go-to dish if you have to cook something quickly at home?
Trahanas — a traditional Greek hearty soup. It’s quick, healthy and full of flavor. I actually make my version of it at Parea.
What customer request most annoys you?
I’m usually able to accommodate any request. The key is understanding the guest’s needs and finding a way to deliver.
What’s your favorite dish to cook and why?
There’s no one particular dish — I love the ones that bring back memories, especially those with a story behind them. So I’d say anything hearty with personal significance.
What’s the most difficult dish for you to get right?
The whole quail. It’s a dish that always presents a challenge — but it’s also an opportunity to perfect my technique.
Pare
Relaxed? Quite the opposite! While we do have our fun moments, when it’s busy there’s no room for democracy in the kitchen. It’s all about precision, teamwork and getting the job done efficiently.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Finding Sushi’ restaurant in Riyadh
Updated 22 January 2025
Waad Hussain
If you are looking for a spot in Riyadh to satisfy your sushi and teppanyaki cravings, Finding Sushi is worth a visit.
This restaurant delivers a delightful dining experience with a fusion of sushi rolls and sizzling teppanyaki dishes.
The sushi selection was impressive. The shrimp tempura roll (SR63/$16.80), dynamite shrimp roll (SR43), and classic California roll (SR61) were well-crafted, with fresh flavors. The rolls were paired beautifully with traditional ginger and wasabi.
For a heartier option, the chicken teppanyaki stood out with tender chicken pieces grilled to perfection, accompanied by a medley of sauteed vegetables. The fried rice served with it was fragrant and well-seasoned, making it a satisfying choice.
The overall pricing is on the higher side, with a total bill of SR245 for two people, including two soft drinks. While the quality of the food was commendable, the portion sizes were quite small, leaving us wanting more for the price paid. This makes it a better option for light dining rather than a filling meal.
For more information, check their Instagram @findingsushi.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Copacabana’ – Brazilian restaurant in Riyadh
The restaurant’s decor enhances the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere
Updated 20 January 2025
Rahaf Jambi
Brazilian restaurant Copacabana offers an unforgettable dining experience with its fixed price, all-you-can-eat meat skewers.
Located on King Fahd Road in Riyadh, the restaurant caters to those seeking lighter options as well — you can find chicken, a variety of salads and soups alongside an array of succulent meats such as tenderloin and ribs.
The lunchtime buffet is priced at SR180 ($48) and includes 16 different salads including salmon, chicken and the classic Caesar. For dinner, the cost is SR265 and the highlight is undoubtedly the signature picanha, a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience.
I particularly enjoyed the spicy malagueta wings and skewered chicken and the grilled pineapple, served as a dessert, added a unique touch to the meal. While I found the burger to be average, the other dishes left a lasting impression.
The restaurant’s decor enhances the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I have dined there three times, each visit marked by excellent service and flavorful food.
The attentive staff ensured we had everything we needed. The restaurant is well-maintained and thoughtfully decorated, with small cushions on the seats contributing to a cozy ambiance. The portion sizes are generous, although the grilled seabass was slightly salty for my taste.
Whether you prefer your meat rare, medium or well-done, Copacabana has you covered. With its luxurious environment and exceptional food, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Where We Are Going Today: Slice of Bread bakery in Qatif
Slice of Bread is known locally for their freshly baked speciality breads such as brioche, ciabbata and keto bread
Updated 18 January 2025
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
On entering Slice of Bread bakery, located in Qatif municipality in the Eastern Province, you will be greeted with the sweet and comforting aroma of freshly baked goods.
This local business offers an international selection of in-house-made savory and sweet baked treats made from high-quality ingredients, created with love.
Enjoy baked treats, from date-filled maamoul cookies and breadsticks to buttery French croissants with a variety of fillings and creamy Japanese cheesecakes.
Slice of Bread is known locally for their freshly baked speciality breads such as brioche, ciabbata and keto bread. My favorite is their sourdough bread, a gut-healthy alternative to white bread, providing nutrients such as protein, fiber and folic acid.
Sourdough is baked differently from traditional bread, with a more intricate preparation required to level the bread and ferment it. Slice of Bread has nailed their own recipe, with a consistent result every time. The sourdough is offered in different flavors; plain, olive herb, and grain.
To satisfy a sweet tooth, try the “gers ogaily” bites, fluffy saffron and cardamom cakes from Kuwait, or their tiramisu, a rich and hearty Italian desert made of coffee-infused ladyfinger pastries layered in a mixture of mascarpone cream cheese.
Slice of Bread is considered to be more on the expensive side, with a loaf of sourdough starting at SR34 ($9), with varying prices depending on the flavor.
Slice of Bread has two locations in Qatif, in Al-Jazirah and Az-Zahra.
Where We Are Going Today: Spontini pizza in Riyadh
Spontini currently operates over 20 stores across Italy and Japan, serving signature thick, fluffy pizzas and delicious slices worldwide
Updated 14 January 2025
Rahaf Jambi
Spontini pizza at Roshn Front in Riyadh has made its much-anticipated Saudi debut. Hailing from Milan, this casual restaurant chain, renowned for its pizza by the slice, was established in 1953.
The first location, off Corso Buenos Aires, quickly gained fame for its unique offerings. The recipes have apparently remained unchanged over the decades, ensuring that the beloved pizza al taglio retains its original taste.
During my visit, I tried the margherita pizza, and one slice was more than enough—thick, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, reminiscent of the branch in Italy. We also sampled the lasagna, which, while full of flavor, did not quite align with my personal tastes.
To round off the meal, we indulged in a refreshing tiramisu dessert that was perfectly chilled.
Spontini currently operates over 20 stores across Italy and Japan, serving signature thick, fluffy pizzas and delicious slices worldwide.
Customers can expect all the Italian classics, including lasagna, various pizzas, and delightful desserts like creme brulee and profiteroles.
The venue prides itself on using fresh, fully Italian ingredients. Each pizza is crafted artisanally, with dough carefully kneaded and leavened daily. Picture a thick slice with a crispy base, soft dough, an ample helping of signature sauce, and a generous layer of cheese — it is a pizza lover’s dream.
Expanding into the Middle East in collaboration with Al-Shaya Group in 2018, Spontini opened in Kuwait and Qatar before arriving in Riyadh.
