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.” 

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. 

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.