Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jon & Vinny’s restaurant in Riyadh

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Updated 03 May 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jon & Vinny’s restaurant in Riyadh

  • The atmosphere and decoration of the restaurant are standard, with wooden bench-style seating and walls decorated using pizza boxes

Los Angeles-based Italian restaurant Jon & Vinny’s has opened a location in Riyadh serving pizza, pasta, desserts and coffee.

Located in Al-Sulimaniyah, the Italian restaurant has four locations in the US, all in California: Fairfax, Brentwood, Slauson and Beverly Hills.

The Riyadh restaurant features a more casual laid-back dining experience as opposed to other Italian restaurants in the Saudi capital that offer a more refined dining atmosphere.

If you are looking for a luxury restaurant for a quiet date night, this is not the best option, but if you are searching for a trendy hang-out spot, Jon & Vinny’s is suitable for you.

The atmosphere and decoration of the restaurant are standard, with wooden bench-style seating and walls decorated using pizza boxes.

The restaurant founders, Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, attended the grand opening in Riyadh on April 17, saying that their mission is to offer authentic food that captures traditional Italian flavors.

The prices on the menu are average, with dishes ranging from SR65-75 ($17-20).

The menu offers a wide variety of pizzas, from “The Rosy,” a tomato and olive oil pizza with parmesan, to the “The Lola,” with fresh burrata, tomato, basil olive oil and a dash of sea salt.

One thing to note is that the pizza is quite authentic compared to other options in the city. The pizza crust is crispy, light and airy, allowing the freshness of the tomatoes and herbs to shine through.

Unlike other Italian restaurants, Jon and Vinny’s also offers different options for crust dips, such as ranch, garlic, buffalo, creamy Italian, pomodoro and olive oil.

In terms of drinks, the options on the menu include juices, soft drinks and caffeinated beverages such as americanos, cappuccinos and other coffee.

You may try the house-made lemonade, which is refreshing but a bit on the sour side. It is definitely great for guests looking for something tangy and refreshing for the Saudi summer heat.

For pasta options, you can try the pesto pasta, known on the menu as the pesto parmigiano oregano. The pasta is perfectly cooked al dente and the sauce is tasty but nothing new or innovative.

The lemon pasta and the spicy fusilli are the two highlight dishes of the restaurant.

When it comes to meat, there are limited choices on the menu. You may try the braised meatballs with ricotta and garlic bread.

The meatballs are very flavorful and seasoned well, with the flavors of the spices in the meatballs complimenting the simple and fresh red sauce.

The garlic bread which is offered with the meatballs is a bit on the charred side.

Another notable option on the menu is the Caesar salad with cheese sticks.

The freshness and quality of the ingredients shine through in the simple dishes.

The restaurant is very trendy and social-media friendly. The wall of Jon and Vinny’s pizza boxes is the perfect backdrop for photos.

Although the restaurant is small, it does offer an open-style kitchen where guests can approach the kitchen area and see the chefs cooking each meal.

For dessert, the restaurant offers a variety of sweets, including cheesecake and chocolate cake.

You will find the staff incredibly friendly.

Jon & Vinny’s offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is open from 8 a.m. to midnight.

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: OH Japanese Pancake 

Updated 21 December 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: OH Japanese Pancake 

  • The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience

OH offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese pancakes by incorporating macarons into their dishes, making it a standout spot for dessert lovers.

Located in the bustling Hittin district of Riyadh, this cake shop specializes in Japanese mini pancakes, which are both delicious and visually appealing.

At OH, you can indulge in two delightful flavors: matcha and chocolate. Each mini pancake is priced at SR18 ($4.80), which feels a bit steep for the size, but the quality justifies the expense.

The pancakes are soft yet have a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful texture that is hard to resist.

A highlight of the experience is the specialty matcha macaron, which is filled with a crispy chocolate filling that resembles a sponge cake.

While the flavors are enjoyable, the limited menu may leave some diners wanting more variety. During my visit, I found the service to be quick and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.

The preparation process is an intriguing spectacle. Watching the staff skillfully place the pancake batter into a wooden mold, stuff it with a macaron, and then add another pancake layer is a treat in itself.

The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience.

Despite the shop occasionally being crowded, the staff remains attentive and welcoming. However, I do wonder how often I would return if the menu remains unchanged. While the food is good, a broader selection could elevate the experience.

OH is a charming destination for those looking to try something different. The combination of crunchy and soft textures, along with the unique concept, makes it worth a visit.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Attache’ in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter

Updated 20 December 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Attache’ in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter

  • A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato

If you are looking for a spot that blends culinary excellence with live music and an exceptional atmosphere, then look no further than Attache.

Situated in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, the music venue and restaurant is a venture by MDLBeast, the music company, which turned an old equestrian club into a modern fine-dining experience.

The menu at Attache is diverse, featuring a fusion of Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern influences. This global approach to cuisine allows diners to explore a variety of flavors, from fresh seafood and grilled meats to inventive vegetarian dishes.

For starters, there is the Thai king prawn gyoza, pan fried with a coriander sauce, and the Swiss comte souffle. This is twice-baked with a comte cheese sauce topped with chives, which gives you satisfying flavors that are not too overwhelming.

For lighter options, opt for the Greek tuna ceviche with a soy marinade, served right at your table, or the English goat cheese salad, with refreshing apple crisp, pecans and rocket leaves, in a date-molasses vinaigrette.

A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato.

For more complex flavors, the Moroccan lamb tagine is cooked with a Ras El-Hanout spice blend alongside smoked almonds, prunes, pomegranate, and orange-infused couscous.

Whether you are a vegetarian or not, the porcini and portobello mushroom pithivier is an excellent dish featuring a crispy puff pastry stuffed with porcini and spinach, served with a cream sauce.

For a perfect pairing of cocktails, we recommend the multinational, which harmoniously blends non-alcoholic tanqueray, pomegranate and passionfruit with the tartness of Japanese lime.

Also try the Attache royal for a sweet refreshing bubbly drink crafted with homemade non-alcoholic yuzu liqueur that has elderflower notes.

With the festive winter season, you will probably want to enjoy the weather with outdoor seating under the stars.

End the night with a sweet treat, whether it is the signature Saudi coffee tiramisu or a lighter Egyptian mango pavlova, while listening to trendy new mixes directly from their DJ.

 


Review: Jimam Spa in Riyadh

The spa provides an array of face and body treatments as well. (Supplied)
Updated 17 December 2024
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Review: Jimam Spa in Riyadh

  • The spa offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered

Located in the Jareed Hotel in Riyadh, Jimam Spa offers a luxurious experience that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The spa is designed as a tranquil sanctuary, blending modern aesthetics with traditional wellness practices, making it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to unwind.

Whether you want a rejuvenating facial or a detoxifying body wrap, the spa has something for everyone.

Jimam Spa features a variety of treatments tailored to individual needs, including an aromatherapy massage and deep tissue Swedish massage. These treatments may help relieve stress and ease muscle tension. Skilled therapists use high-quality oils and techniques for a soothing session.

The spa provides an array of face and body treatments as well. Each treatment is crafted to nourish the skin and improve its appearance, leaving guests feeling refreshed and revitalized.

For those seeking a more private experience, the spa offers exclusive packages. I had the pleasure of enjoying a private experience that included access to a hot tub. It was the perfect setting to relax while sipping their special tea. The massage that followed was incredibly soothing — a much-needed escape from the bustling life of Riyadh.

After the treatment, I was invited to a serene seating area where I enjoyed another calming cup of tea. This thoughtful touch made my experience truly exceptional.

The spa also offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered.

Jimam Spa, with its diverse offerings and award-winning service, stands out as a premier destination for wellness and rejuvenation. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a trip to this spa can be a transformative experience.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign Burger’ – a homegrown eatery in Jeddah

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Updated 16 December 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign Burger’ – a homegrown eatery in Jeddah

  • The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety

Jeddah’s bustling restaurant scene features Sign Burger, a homegrown eatery that takes its branding to the next level.

Located in Al-Mohammadiyyah and Al-Bawadi, Sign Burger’s vivid decor makes an instant impression. Neon pink dominates the interior, giving the place an edgy, Instagram-worthy vibe.

The bright, cheerful setup, combined with its minimalist menu, has quickly turned it into a popular spot, with customers queuing for their fix of burgers and fries.

The menu is as straightforward as it gets, offering just three meal options: Sign beef, Sign chicken and Sign spicy chicken, all priced at a very pocket-friendly SR24 ($7).

Each meal includes a burger, fries served in a cute pink box, and a drink. Its gathering box, which offers four or six burgers for group dining, is a thoughtful option on the menu.

The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety.

Taste-wise, the burgers are satisfying, especially for the price. The beef patty is well-seasoned, smashed to perfection, and complemented by the signature Sign sauce, a tangy mix reminiscent of Thousand Island dressing.

The chicken burgers, especially the spicy crispy variety, pack a flavorful punch with just the right amount of heat. The soft brioche buns elevate the experience, striking a balance between lightness and structure.

One downside is the sheer popularity of the place, long lines and crowded spaces are almost guaranteed, whether you are dining in or using the drive-thru.

For some, the wait might detract from the experience.

From the neon-lit interiors to the vibrant pink drink cups, Sign Burger has nailed the aesthetics game, and affordability with its reasonably priced burgers.

For more information check @signsa on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jazean’ Saudi coffee at Diplomatic Quarter

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Updated 13 December 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jazean’ Saudi coffee at Diplomatic Quarter

  • The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.

Saudi Arabia has been booming with specialty coffee shops, but there is nothing quite like Jazean, which has become a beloved local gem.

With two locations in the heart of the Diplomatic Quarter, at 1364 Mall and the trendy tourist attraction Al-Bujairi, it brings a new style of Saudi coffee to locals and visitors alike.

Jazean’s offerings are rich in flavors and Saudi identity. The coffee beans are sourced from the mountains of the southern region of Saudi Arabia, nestled 1,000 meters above sea level, and blended with the best arabica from around the world.

Jazean’s menu stands out with its wide selection of specialty drinks, from rich espresso-based beverages to traditional Arabic options. The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.

For those looking for something more adventurous, the turmeric latte and iced date coffee are both unique takes on classic flavors.

The raspberry cheesecake is a must — it is equally fluffy and sweet. The mango dessert and pecan cheesecake are also popular options for those with sweet cravings.

They also offer their own machine capsules and beans for easy brewing at home.

Jazean has a modern, warm ambiance, with a minimalist design that emphasizes comfort and relaxation. Natural light pours in through large windows, creating a pleasant and airy space perfect for both solo visits and casual meetings.

The DQ location features a breathtaking mural by the Saudi artist Noura Binsaidan, depicting an elderly farmer wearing the traditional flower crown, native and popular in the southern region. It is a nod to the generations of cultivating and harvesting in Jazan.

The service is exceptional, with friendly and knowledgeable baristas who are happy to share recommendations. While the prices are on the higher end, Jazean makes up for it in quality and atmosphere.

Whether you are a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, the shop is a perfect blend of quality, inviting ambiance, and top-notch service.

It is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in Riyadh, providing an unforgettable experience with every sip.