Latest news with #A.O.KKitchen
FACT
05-03-2025
- Business
- FACT
FACT award-winning A.O.K Kitchen expands to Diriyah
All eyes are (rightfully) on Saudi Arabia's burgeoning hospitality scene – Riyadh alone has seen Chotto Matte, SUSHISAMBA and Zuma debut in recent months. However, one restaurant that has firmly held its ground is A.O.K Kitchen, and now, this FACT award-winner is expanding to Diriyah. Located in Zallal Diriyah, a mixed-use commercial office and retail project, this new A.O.K Kitchen outpost will be the brand's second location in Saudi Arabia. This time, it promises to bring its delicious flavours to the UNESCO Heritage Site in the Kingdom. A.O.K Kitchen in Zallal Diriyah will blend the brand's signature contemporary style with Najdi architectural elements, paying homage to Diriyah's historic charm while ensuring that the space feels stylish. With 78 seats up for grabs, you can choose to dine indoors or alfresco. There's also a counter if you'd like to grab and go. A.O.K Kitchen has always been about refined yet nourishing dining, and its newest location continues that mission. Led by Chef Nikolas Mataragkas, it will offer signature favourites alongside exciting new creations. Must-try dishes include the Cobb Salad, Roasted Honey Salmon, and the ever-popular A.O.K Pancakes. Expect the same sugar-free, gluten-free and plant-based options that you're used to. For the uninitiated, the chic London-based dining concept was founded by second-generation restaurateur Kelly Landesberg in 2019 and rapidly gained recognition for its refined menu, much of it gluten- and dairy-free and all of it free from refined sugar. Incidentally, A.O.K stands for 'All is Okay', translating to a brand's philosophy of curating a feel-good dining experience that accommodates everyone. Since launching in KAFD in 2022, A.O.K Kitchen has won over foodies with its wellness-focused menu, stylish setting and locally sourced ingredient philosophy. And with this new opening, it's clear that the brand's popularity is only growing. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
27-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Ramadan 2025: The top choices for iftar in Riyadh
Ramadan is a time of reflection, community, and of course, delicious feasts. The dining scene in the capital is going all out to make sure you experience the best food and hospitality this Ramadan. To ensure you embrace the traditions of the Holy Month, FACT highlights some of the best places for iftar in Riyadh this year. The FACT award-winning A.O.K Kitchen's iftar buffet is not to be missed. Featuring gluten- and dairy-limited dishes, a live saj station, and a cosy games area along with the likes of soups, samosas, Saudi coffee and much more, A.O.K Kitchen has something for everyone. Available daily, from sunset to 10pm. SAR 149 (adults) and SAR 91 (children aged six to 12). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. For a touch of French sophistication during Ramadan, head to Café Boulud, which is located in Four Seasons Kingdom Tower. Here, Chef Daniel Boulud presents a modern take on Ramadan classics with starters like Tomato with Burrata and Nicoise Salad, followed by mains such as Bass with Potato or Beef Tournedos. End your iftar with a decadent Chocolate Molten Cake. Available daily, from sunset to 9pm. SAR 425 per person. GO: Visit for more information. Fairmont Hotel Riyadh's Ramadan setting features a traditional Bedouin-style bazaar. Its Al Thuraya Ramadan Tent will feature Saudi classics such as spiced camel kabsa, Turkish Fattah, and fresh shawarmas this season. A children's tent on site also lets the little ones fill up their own plates, ensuring you have a great experience. Available daily, from sunset to 9pm. SAR 635 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Il Baretto Riyadh blends Italian cuisine with Ramadan traditions as part of its Luna Del Ramadan celebration. Enjoy a four-course iftar menu with options like Quinoa Salad, Burrata, Penne all'Arrabbiata and Petto di Pollo alla Milanese to name a few. Wrap up with a Tiramisu or choose from a wide selection of desserts for a wholesome feast. Available daily, from sunset to 7.30pm. SAR 184 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. The newly-opened Isabel Mayfair, Riyadh brings a European twist to Ramadan. With a set menu featuring Sukkari dates, lentil soup, cheese bites, grilled meat, and saffron risotto, you're guaranteed to have a flavourful iftar. You'll also get Isabel's signature handmade Chocolate Truffles. Available daily, from sunset to 12am. SAR 200 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. As you step into JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh this Ramadan, you'll find yourself in the old souks of the Kingdom. With traditional decor, the menu here features the likes of mixed grills, shawarmas, along with international flavours for a truly wholesome dining experience. Available daily, from sunset to 8pm. SAR 370 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. The multiple FACT award-winning La Petite Maison Riyadh brings a French-Mediterranean take on iftar. It features a sharing menu with Burrata, Yellowtail Carpaccio, Marinated Lamb Cutlets, and Vanilla Cheesecake, so you're guaranteed to have a wholesome dining experience this Ramadan. Available daily, from sunset to 8.30pm. SAR 250 per person (minimum booking of two). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Mandarin Oriental, Al Faisaliah Riyadh is also upping the ante for Ramadan. With a Majlis at Nur, inspired by Her Royal Highness Nourah Al Faisal's signature fan design, features 13 embroidered circular panels representing the Kingdom's diverse provinces. With a variety of dishes for iftar, a play area for children and live entertainment, this dining experience is one of the most luxurious ones in the capital. Available daily, from 5.30pm to 9pm. SAR 595 (adults) and SAR 298 (children aged seven to 12). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. For a fantastic iftar experience, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh presents Layalina. Offering an immersive journey through Saudi flavours and live entertainment in an elegant setting, you're in to have a feast that is surely going to result in a memorable meal. Available daily, from sunset to 10pm. SAR 500 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Zuma Riyadh marks its first Ramadan in the Kingdom with an exquisite contemporary Japanese iftar. If you're able to secure a table, you can indulge in a curated selection of signature dishes such as the Wagyu Gyoza, Shrimp Tempura, Miso Marinated Black Cod and much more. Available daily, from 5.30pm to 2am. SAR 275 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information.
FACT
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The best dishes we ate in January 2025
Restaurants come and go in the Middle East, but FACT's unwavering passion for dining remains unchanged. The team can be found across the region, sampling the good, the bad and the exceptional. We eat at every kind of restaurant and experience every type of meal, from flash-in-the-pan novelties to iconic institutions. To spare you the guesswork, here are the best dishes we ate in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh this month. There are pancakes, and then there are A.O.K Pancakes — the kind that make you pause after the first bite just to fully take in how good they are. Served at FACT award-winning A.O.K Kitchen in KAFD, these beauties were fluffy, light and indulgent, like biting into a sweet, buttery cloud. The warm, caramelised apples added a nice richness, while the golden crumble provided the perfect crunch. And with some of the friendliest staff in town making sure you're well taken care of, it's the kind of dish that instantly puts you in a good mood. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer . A good friend invited me to Chef Akmal Anuar's new Wasl 51 restaurant earlier this month. Showcasing Singaporean Malay cuisine inspired by generational recipes—many from Chef Akmal's mother—Harummanis features street food classics and traditional Malay dishes. One, however, caught us off guard. Beef lungs wouldn't usually be my pick, but this bold dish invites adventurous diners to try a rare delicacy. Carefully prepared for a tender yet slightly chewy texture, the skewered meat is lightly charcoal-grilled for a smoky char that deepens its earthy richness. Yet it's the fiery and tangy Sambal Belado that takes the dish to the next level. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief. At Al Naqa Kebab, Chef Aphisith Phongsavanh brings a taste of Laos to the Neighbourhood Food Hall in Motor City. The fragrant Lao Black Lemon Lamb Kebab is easily one of the best dishes available in the entire hall, skewered and grilled over charcoal. The juicy meat is infused with lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaf and fresh herbs, creating a vibrant balance of citrusy, earthy, and smoky flavours where each bite offers a fragrant punch, complemented by the slight heat of Laotian spices. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief. If there's one thing I'll always say yes to, it's pasta — especially if it's homemade — and has truffle. And the L˜ARIA's pop-up at Mandarin Oriental, Al Faisaliah in Riyadh, promises just that. The Homemade Black Truffle Tagliolino was everything I expected and is evidently one of the restaurant's best dishes. The pasta was silky, al dente and generously coated in a truffle-infused sauce. The thin shavings of black truffle scattered on top elevated the aroma (and lavishness) of the dish. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer . Camel meat isn't something you often see prepared with classic French finesse, but Ducasse in AlUla pulls it off. The Confit Camel a la Rossini, slow-cooked in its own fat until tender, is probably the best camel dish you'll ever have. With an almost foie gras-like velvety texture, this camel steak of sorts was delicious and juicy. Having lived in Saudi most of my life, I was surprised this was my first time trying camel, but I'm glad it happened at Alain Ducasse's acclaimed AlUla venue. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer . At the newly-opened MiMi Mei Fair Dubai, indulgence takes centre stage with the Crispy Golden Langoustine with Black Truffle—a dish that blends luxury and precision. Wrapped in delicate kataifi pastry, the langoustine is fried to a golden crisp, creating a delightful contrast between its crunchy exterior and the succulent seafood within. Elevating the decadence, a generous dollop of caviar crowns the dish, adding briny depth to the delicate shellfish. The finishing touch? A hint of black truffle infuses the dish with earthy opulence and surpasses the Apple Wood-Fired Roasted Peking Duck as my favourite of MiMi Mei Fair Dubai's best dishes. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I don't have much of a sweet tooth. I'd much prefer a cheese plate or even another superb starter rather than dessert. However, a recent visit to NAC in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi introduced me to the Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies. These moreish morsels are gloriously gooey, served warm so that the chocolate chips have begun to melt and topped with a fantastic Frosties soft serve ice cream. It's a dessert that takes the childhood nostalgia of cookies and a glass of milk and elevates it a notch. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief. Sat on the breezy terrace at L'Amo Bistro del Mare overlooking the bobbing boats in Dubai Harbour; it's difficult not to feel like you're on the Amalfi coast. With a new menu from Head Chef Alessandro Salvatico, seasonal ingredients are reimagined with a modern, artistic touch, and the Ravioli del Plin is a highlight. These delicate, handmade ravioli—named 'Plin' after the Italian word for 'pinch'—are crafted in-house and filled with slow-braised beef, creating a rich and deeply satisfying bite. Bathed in a simple yet luxurious sauce of butter and sage, the dish lets the quality of the ingredients shine, resulting in one of our best dishes of the month. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief. You'd never expect an Arabian spice such as sumac to appear in any dish in a French restaurant, but Café Boulud in Riyadh is all about surprising you. The restaurant's Salmon & Sumac is as strikingly tasteful as it is visually appealing. This perfectly pink grilled salmon fillet, with a generous sprinkle of even brighter pink sumac, is a visual treat. The spice adds a kick, cutting through the fish's rich, buttery texture. Pine nuts and raisins are scattered on top, offering a contrast of crunch and chewiness and elevating the texture of the dish. With a side of quinoa keeping things light yet satisfying, it's a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer .
FACT
30-01-2025
- Business
- FACT
23 business lunches in Riyadh to break the midday monotony
For those looking to make the most of their workday, the capital offers business lunches to suit all price points. From upscale restaurants to more casual settings for a quick bite, these are the best business lunches in Riyadh right now. A.O.K Kitchen is an excellent spot for an all-inclusive business lunch featuring a weekly changing two-course menu. Enjoy their popular dishes, including Grilled Halloumi Salad, Grilled Chicken Paillard, and Grilled Fillet of Sea Bass for a quick yet delicious lunch. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 11am to 6pm. SAR 119 (two-course menu). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. For a more casual lunch, Black Tap offers a variety of burgers served with Idaho Fries or a House Salad. The burgers include the all-American Burger, Crispy Chicken, and the Old-Fashioned. You can also choose a drink to pair up with your meal. However, those who love a shake with their burger will need to pay a little extra. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 5pm. SAR 89 per person and an additional SAR 20 for a milkshake. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Café Boulud promises an exquisite selection of choices to make your business lunch experience one you keep returning for. Indulge in Bluefin Tuna Crudo or a Thai Salad before moving on to mains such as Grilled Sea Bream, Mushroom Linguine, or a classic Wagyu Sirloin Steak. With a wide selection of desserts to choose from, you're in for a sophisticated lunch experience. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12.30pm to 4pm. SAR 175 (two-course) and SAR 225 (three-course). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Charcoza serves a business lunch menu featuring premium steaks for a carnivorous fix. From Steak to Grilled Salmon and Street-style Short-rib Tacos, you're in for a delicious meal that comes with a selection of salad, fries, or mashed potatoes, and a drink. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 4pm. SAR 129 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. For those seeking a taste of Japanese cuisine, CLAP offers a business lunch that includes Miso Soup and a selection of two starters, such as Crispy Shiitake Salad and Wagyu Beef Tartare. You can also choose one main course, including Black Cod Miso and Marinated Lamb Back, and finish your business lunch with a sweet treat. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. SAR 150 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. COYA offers two business lunch menus to choose from. With Pumpkin Soup, Chicken with Potatoes, Chicken Seabass and Rice and Beef Ribs up for grabs, there's plenty for you to enjoy. And for dessert, you can opt for Orange & Lime Churros, Coconut Parfait, or Profiteroles. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 1pm to 6pm. SAR 140 per person (Batea Peruana Lunch Menu) and SAR 170 (Batea Peruana Premium Lunch Menu). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Located in bustling As Sulimaniyah, Da Mimmo serves an in-house recipe with only the freshest ingredients. The business lunch menu includes an appetiser, like Tomato Soup or Caesar Salad, followed by a main course of Spaghetti Pomodoro or Pizza Margherita. For dessert, there is an additional charge for a taste of Tiramisu, Nutella and Lotus Calzone. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 1pm to 5pm. SAR 75 per person and an additional SAR 17 (dessert). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Encore's business lunch menu offers international cuisine with a Mediterranean influence. The dishes range from Mizuna Corn Salad to Beef Ragout Rigatoni for you to indulge in. You can also enjoy desserts like Frozen Yogurt, Loukoumades or Ice Cream. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 3pm. SAR 150 per person (two-course meal) and SAR 190 (three-course meal). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Elevate your midday mealtime with a business lunch at House of Grill at Fairmont Riyadh. This dining experience features a great selection of grilled goods that will fill you up. Choose between a two-course menu or a three-course option, and sit back to let the flavours do the talking. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12.30pm to 3pm. SAR 225 (two-course) and SAR 275 (three-course). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. If you're looking for Italian cuisine, the FACT award-winning Il Baretto has an exciting array of dishes as part of its business lunch menu. You can choose from Salmon Carpaccio or Kale Salad, followed by Linguine Lobster, Saffron Risotto, and Grilled Salmon Fillet. Available from Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 4pm. SAR 70 per person (one-course meal) and SAR 135 (two-course meal). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Bring a touch of Paris to your midweek lunches at Laduree. Choose from Quinoa Salad or a Vegetable Soup followed by mains such as Grilled Salmon, Truffle Asparagus Gnocchi, or the Classic Penne Arrabbiata. End your meal with a Macaron to wrap up a wholesome meal. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 4pm. SAR 115 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. If you're looking for a mix of European flavours, Los Bandidos is where you should dine. With various dishes such as Grilled Salmon with herbs and Mushroom Risotto, you're in for a memorable meal. Available from 1pm to 6pm. SAR 139 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. The FACT award-winning La Petite Maison Riyadh offers a business lunch that's sure to make your afternoons exciting. Indulge in Oysters with Smoked Tabasco and Crispy Quinoa, followed by Homemade Rigatoni Pasta with cream and mushrooms. If you'd like to take it up a notch, upgrade to a three-course option and enjoy a Black Forest Cake to end on a sweet note. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. SAR 180 per person (Le Petite Menu) and SAR 230 (Le Grand Menu). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Mr. Chow invites you to try its two-course business lunch menu featuring the best Chinese cuisine. You're in for a delicious meal with the likes of Lobster Shumai, Shanghai Little Dragon, and Sweet and Sour Prawns. To cap it off, try their cheesecake because you deserve some midweek indulgence. Available daily, from 12pm to 5:30pm. SAR 159 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Another restaurant offering a great business lunch is Nozomi. You can expect a fantastic feast featuring starters such as Shrimp Popcorn and Maki Rolls and a main course menu consisting of Wagyu Beef Sliders, Salmon Teriyaki, and Spring Chicken. Available Saturday to Thursday, from 1pm to 5pm. SAR 185 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Enjoy a business lunch with live kitchen theatrics every afternoon at ROKA. Choose between the classic or premium menu and enjoy dishes such as Salmon Fillet Teriyaki with Sansho Salt and Roasted Baby Chicken with Chili and Lemon. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 1pm to 4:30pm. SAR 125 per person (classic lunch menu) and SAR 145 (premium lunch menu). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Known for being the first Anatolian restaurant in Saudi Arabia, Rüya offers a business lunch with a set three-course meal. As part of this, you'll try Muhammara, Hand-Cut Lamb & Burned Tomato, and Hazelnut Baklava. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 5:30pm. SAR 135 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Sadelle's at Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Hotel, offers an exciting array of dishes as part of its business lunch menu. Choose between a Cobb Salad or the Sadelle's appetisers duo and follow it up with a Baked Sea Bass or Garlic Chicken. To end on a sweet note, try the mini version of the French Toast or Strawberry Cake. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 5pm. SAR 180 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Sumosan, located in Laysen Valley, offers a business lunch menu that's not to be missed. With the likes of Miso Soup, Salmon Cucumber Roll, Grilled Chicken Thighs, Vegetable Fried Rice, and Miso Cheesecake on the agenda, you'll be sure to leave with your taste buds satisfied. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 1pm to 4pm. SAR 180 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Serving dishes inspired by Japan, Brazil, and Peru, SUSHISAMBA offers the Hayai business lunch menu with two and three-course options. Dishes include Shrimp Tempura, Beef Anticucho, and Mochi for dessert, so ensure you get your reservations in. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12:30pm to 4:30pm. SAR 170 per person (two-course menu) and SAR 195 (three-course menu). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Tokyo is Riyadh's first Japanese restaurant. It offers a set business lunch menu featuring classics like Miso Soup, Gyoza, Maki Rolls, and Teppanyaki served with Steamed Rice. The menu is available Sunday through Thursday, from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The price is SAR 135 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Set under a canopy of pink blossom trees, Yauatcha provides a business lunch in a stunning setting. With Crispy Duck Salad, Chicken Prawn Wonton, and Wok-Tossed Tiger Prawn on offer, you're guaranteed to have a delicious meal. Plus, you get two macarons to wrap it up. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 4pm. SAR 140 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. The newly-opened Zuma Riyadh brings its popular Ebisu business lunch to the capital, showcasing a selection of dishes inspired by its global reputation. Enjoy the Miso Soup, followed by a choice of Fresh Crab Maki, Prawn and Black Cod Gyoza, and Seared Salmon. For mains, the Black Cod Donburi, Grilled Chilean Seabass and Roasted Eggplant are sure to spice up your experience. End with the Riyadh-exclusive Ajwa Date and Miso Toffee Cake. Available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 4pm. SAR 159 per person. GO: Visit for more reservations and more information.
