When it was introduced that the London famed Roka was creating its largest outpost in Riyadh, individuals have been abuzz. The restaurant simply turned one of the vital in style eating places in Dubai a yr in the past, and the anticipation of its arrival in Saudi Arabia was palpable. So the second we set foot on its industrial-chic tackle and took our first chew of their culinary oeuvre, we knew that we have been in for a eating expertise that may hit all the correct notes. And it did.
Specializing in the concord of flavors and components was a constant characteristic we noticed at play in Roka Riyadh. We advocate beginning your gastronomic journey with the crowd-favorite Kampachi salad – yellowtail sashimi with yuzu truffle dressing. The tartar assortment is to not be missed with its rice cracker pairing, our editor favoring the yellowtail, and salmon varieties, particularly when made a part of their recent sashimi platter (their fatty tuna is divine).
For these craving a superb crunch on the facet, the in-house creation, iceberg salad with pickled onions is great to have on the desk (all through the meal, we’d say).
Something from their Robata grill is sure to titillate your tastebuds, to be trustworthy, however what really had us craving (to the purpose of scheduling a return quickly after) is the grilled Octopus bathe in wagyu drippings. The succulence of their meats is to not be missed, whether or not you’re choosing a seafood deal with (the cod and sea bream listed here are the freshest, tastiest mouthful we’ve had shortly) or indulging your internal carnivore with their Korean lamb chops or rooster wings. And earlier than we neglect… you possibly can’t go mistaken with the Roka baked potato as a trusted essential companion.
The plates that may hit your desk present grace and confidence, nicely balanced and ready with meticulous consideration to element. On the helm of this culinary brigade is Chef Libor, whose ardour runs by way of the veins of the kitchen alongside his dedication to high quality substances, and intelligent use of them is translated on the menu.
What completes the Roka expertise and units it aside is its great vitality and ambiance. The suggestions of their gents and women are at all times spot on, their service constantly enthusiastic but heat and easily impeccable.
As a fan of daytime eating, lunch at Roka has turn into a mainstay on my calendar, and when reservations at instances turn into elusive, I welcome opting to stroll in and take my place on the counter. It truthfully is likely one of the greatest spots to look at the kitchen in motion whilst you sip certainly one of their signature mocktails (sure to the inexperienced Yoda and sure to that spiced citrusy concoction you’d should ask about).
General, Roka is a formidable addition to Riyadh’s ever-growing modern eating scene and one which we see will likely be turning strangers to patrons one well-balanced plate at a time.
Instagram: @rokariyadhofficial
