Restaurant review: Che Figata, Fairmont Hotel Riyadh
Bringing soulful comfort food from Italy’s 20 regions to Riyadh…
Che Figata is the newest addition to Fairmont Hotel Riyadh’s dining scene after its rebranding from the once-popular Pesto. Since reopening the refurbished restaurant doors last month, it’s already been busy within this short time from returning customers and new ones alike.
And we are happy to report that Che Figata is off to a very fine start.
It’s still lovely inside, and the interior is handsome. The open kitchen with a pizza oven and designated private sections, which are excellent for families and group dining, remain.
If you expected a white tableclothed atmosphere, you might be mistaken. The casual yet elegant space is fitted with wooden furnishings, plush textiles, striking black-and-white marble tiles, and sketches of Italy’s landmarks, all designed to be both cosy and roomy all at once.
The seats are comfortable, and the lighting is purposely not overly bright. Plus, the ambience is pleasant and relaxed, blending the charm of a traditional trattoria. In fact, the new Italian restaurant concept fashions a lovely escape from the outside world.
Che Figata’s kitchen is helmed by Chef Rino Serra. The focus on the authentic flavours of his homeland has been fine-tuned to match the concept, drawing inspiration from the beloved cuisine of Italy’s 20 regions.
Think Italy’s diverse and picturesque regions, from the rolling hills of Piedmont and Tuscany to the sun-kissed shores of Calabria and Sicily.
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Overall, most will be pleased with the menu at Che Figata, especially starting with the burrata Pugliese (SAR85). Add some of the olive oil and balsamic sitting on the table, and it’s even better.
We also pamper ourselves with something a little more indulgent by ordering the Gamberi E Zucchini Fritti (SAR80). This version of this classic appetiser is one of the best we’ve tried, especially given its crunchy texture.
The pasta and risotto section of the menu is where carb-lovers will want to hang out. All the usual suspects are here, but keep in mind that Che Figata whips up their pasta fresh, which equates to maximum tastiness.
The Ravioli Fatti in Casa (SAR110) is a good bet. The mushroom-filled ravioli sitting in a delicately flavoured butter and sage sauce is simply marvellous on the tongue, and it’s the one we’d recommend to anyone who’s after a single, hearty pasta dish.
Those hankering to go for the secondi have a few options to check out. If you’re swinging for the fences, the OssoBuco Alla Milanese (SAR135) should be on your radar. The slowly braised veal shank with its jus is fantastically tender and pure indulgence, but unfortunately, the saffron risotto that comes with it is rather dull.
We finish the evening as every Italian meal should, with the cannoli (SAR40), which has us close to risking a food coma. However, the shell of the Sicilian speciality is too thick for our liking. But if you try just one thing to end, make it the tiramisu (SAR60); it’s a rite of passage after all.
What’s On verdict: Che Figata isn’t home to a menu that excites new diners with boundless artistic flair and experimentation. Yet, what will keep us coming back is the perfectly honed execution of traditional dishes and familiar flavours with hints of modern adaptations. The rebrand is really looking good on this Italian restaurant.
Che Figata, daily 6pm onwards, Fairmont Hotel Riyadh. @fairmontriyadh
Images: Supplied