Latest news with #MansardHotel
Arab News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Review: A luxurious Riyadh staycation at the Mansard Hotel
RIYADH: The Mansard Hotel in Riyadh has established itself as a top choice among those looking for a luxury staycation in the Kingdom's capital. This exquisite establishment offers a plethora of facilities, including a top-tier restaurant and a renowned spa by L'Occitane that promises a rejuvenating experience catering to both relaxation and indulgence. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ The Mansard is a Radisson Collection Hotel and was recently nominated for the Favorite Luxury Hotel in Riyadh award by What's On Saudi Arabia. The hotel marries classic European architecture with the warmth of Arabian hospitality, and its location in the heart of the city — in the vibrant Hittin neighborhood — ensures convenient access to key destinations including King Khalid International Airport and the King Abdullah Financial District. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) In Hittin, guests can explore an array of trendy shops and cafés, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture. However, you could also simply remain in the hotel; it really does have everything you need — the inviting outdoor spaces and stunning European architecture created a serene atmosphere that enhanced our experience — including some great dining options. We began our culinary journey at L'Ami Dave, billed as 'a contemporary homage to the legendary restaurants of Paris.' The grand interior features high ceilings and lush textures that give the place an elegant old-world atmosphere. We indulged in escargots de Bourgogne, a classic French dish of snails prepared in garlic-herb butter, which was delightful. The green salad of baby romaine lettuce, fine herbs, and Dijon vinaigrette complemented the dish perfectly. The quiche Lorraine, filled with spinach, shallots, and bacon, was another standout, paired beautifully with a petite spinach salad. We also dined at Carbone — an Italian-American restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere. We tried the octopus pizzaiolo, which was flavorful and well-prepared. The New York strip was also well executed, though the carpaccio could have benefited from additional arugula. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) Unfortunately, the Dover sole fish was a disappointment, lacking the seasoning and flavor that one would expect from a fine-dining establishment. And despite its reputation, the most famous pasta dish was mediocre, with a presentation that left much to be desired. On a positive note, Carbone's Wagyu NY strip was satisfying, and we enjoyed a refreshing lemon cheesecake for dessert — a perfect way to conclude our meal. Breakfast the following morning at Sadelle's was another success. I savored the avocado Benedict on sourdough, as well as the fluffy Belgian waffles, all of which was delicious and set a positive tone for the day. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) No stay at Mansard would be complete without a visit to the Spa by L'Occitane. It features a massive heated pool, where we enjoyed a refreshing dip, followed by the jacuzzi, which proved a perfect way to unwind. We were particularly enamored with the salt room, designed to 'cleanse negative energy.' I also treated myself to a Moroccan bath, a deeply relaxing experience. The Mansard offers a luxurious escape that combines modern amenities with traditional charm. From the exceptional dining experiences to the relaxing spa treatments, every aspect of the stay was designed for our comfort and indulgence. I left feeling refreshed and keen to return, convinced that this hotel really does provide a perfect staycation. If you're searching for a place to unwind and enjoy the best that Riyadh has to offer, look no further.
Arab News
17-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi designers transform traditional handcrafts into high fashion
RIYADH: A fusion of tradition and innovation stole the spotlight at the Traditional Handcrafts Revival in Saudi Fashion competition on Sunday, where local designers used age-old techniques to craft high-fashion pieces. Held at Mansard Hotel – The Gallery in Riyadh, the event celebrated 10 winners whose designs honored the Kingdom's rich cultural identity through embroidery, natural dyeing, leatherwork, and even 3D printing. First-place winner Rand Al-Saif's design, 'Saudiya,' is inspired by the desert landscapes of Hijaz and Tihama. (AN photo by Waad Hussain) The winning designs will be showcased at the Fashion Commission's exhibition during the Saudi Cup 2025 this weekend. Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, highlighted the initiative's role in promoting Saudi Arabia's culture. • The winning designs will be showcased at the Fashion Commission's exhibition during the Saudi Cup 2025 this weekend. • 'Sidrat Najd' by Maha Al-Qahtani is an ethereal gown that integrates sidr fruit kernels, covered with silver leaves and Swarovski crystals. 'The 'Traditional Handcrafts Revival in Saudi Fashion' initiative is a program designed to promote traditional Saudi attire within the contemporary fashion industry. 'It emphasizes Saudi cultural heritage, enhances and preserves Saudi cultural identity, and fosters local talent in creative design,' he told Arab News. Second-place winner Maha Al-Qahtani stands next to her design, 'Sidrat Najd,' a gown inspired by the sidr tree. The piece incorporates sustainability by using sidr fruit kernels wrapped in silver and adorned with Swarovski crystals. (AN photo by Waad Hussain) Cakmak added: 'By emphasizing Saudi culture at the forefront of the competition, we were able to foster creative talent to create new designs showcasing the vast heritage of Saudi in alignment with the Ministry of Culture's 'Year of Handicrafts.'' Rand Al-Saif's winning design, 'Saudiya,' is a five-piece ensemble showcasing intricate hand embroidery, natural dyeing, and traditional leatherwork — techniques deeply rooted in Saudi Arabia history. 'My design, 'Saudiya,' is inspired by the desert of Hijaz and Tihama,' Al-Saif said. In second place was 'Sidrat Najd' by Maha Al-Qahtani. Her ethereal gown integrates sidr fruit kernels, covered with silver leaves and Swarovski crystals. 'The name of my design is 'Sidrat Najd,' inspired by the sidr tree, which holds deep cultural significance in Saudi heritage,' she explained. Third was 'Bride of the Arabian Peninsula' by Ghaida Majdali, who took a bold and innovative approach. 'The fabric was worked on for 350 hours of hand embroidery, without any machine. The skirt is made of metal with 3D printing, covered in natural camel leather,' she said.
