Restaurant Review: Roka Jeddah
A Stunning love letter to Robata Japanese cooking…
With a total of 11 other branches across the globe, it should come as no surprise that Roka opened a branch in Jeddah. For a restaurant that has only been open since mid-June, Roka Jeddah has got the same key ingredients that make for a stunning restaurant.
Interiors
The restaurant is split into quite a few different sections: a terrace that doubles as an indoor and outdoor space for those slightly hotter days, and the main restaurant that has dark wood and deep red accents scattered around giving the restaurant a moody but chic energy. Lastly, of course, the Robata counter where diners can watch the masters work away at their craft.
The experience
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From start to finish each and every single member of the team made the experience one to remember. If you’re looking for a venue that comes with immaculate service, then look no further than Roka Jeddah.
We left our evening up to the capable Peter, who chose our dishes and made sure that all of our needs were catered to.
At Roka Jeddah, there are a few dishes that are signature to the branch, as per any Roka venue – such as the chicken sando served with Gochujang sauce, which to us was a tad dry but was compensated for by the spectacular umami flavour in the sauce.
A signature across all Roka outlets is the yellowtail sashimi served with a yuzu and truffle dressing. If you know anything about me, I am not the biggest fan of truffle, when executed poorly – however, in this dish, the hint of truffle in the dressing paired with the rest of the dish complimented the mild and buttery fish beyond words.
No Roka experience is complete without the Robatayaki dishes and of course, the famous baked potato. For our main, we enjoyed a combination of the spicy robata beef skewers cooked with Padron peppers and the incredible baked potato that is mixed and served at your table (if you know, you know.)
What’s On Verdict: Whatever Roka’s ingredients are for the makings of an incredible restaurant experience, they have only been highlighted and exemplified by Roka Jeddah.
Roka, Cascade at Jeddah Walk, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz St, Al Khalidiyyah, open Mon to Thu 6pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 1pm t0 12am. @rokarestaurant.ksa
Images: Provided and social