4 fabulous restaurant pop-ups to check out in Riyadh
Oasis Riyadh is bringing international restaurants to the capital…
Riyadh Season packs out the city with an endless array of events through the winter season, and among our favourites is Oasis Riyadh. Home to open-air activities and entertainment, as well as a selection of incredible pop-up restaurants, it’s located just a 15-minute drive outside of the city and runs until the end of February.
Last season, big international brands such as Zuma, Amazonico and Nammos brought their signature dining experiences to the desert pop-up, and this year the culinary stakes are just as high. Exported from locations including Dubai, Paris and London, here are four restaurant pop-ups you won’t want to miss.
Opa
Dubai’s beloved Greek dining concept, OPA, has joined Riyadh’s Oasis festival in the Saudi Kingdom for the season. In signature Opa style, the venue features charming white interiors, traditional music of the islands, plus Zorba dancing and Greek plate smashing. The flavourfully diverse menu will feature some of OPA’s most renowned dishes, like a buttery Kleftiko – a braised lamb shoulder; OPA salad; fresh fish dishes and traditional Hellenic pastries.
Le Grand Venise
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Hailing from Paris, Le Grand Venise is an authentic Italian restaurant housed in an elegant glass building at Oasis Riyadh. A family business with a history of more than 100 years, on the menu, expect dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole and langoustine Skewers alla Genovese, paired with fruity mocktails prepared by the master mixologists.
Novikov
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While its permanent address many no longer be in Riyadh, Novikov is back in the Saudi capital for Oasis Zone, bringing its signature dual dining experience of contemporary Asian and authentic Italian to the desert pop-up. There’s both alfresco and indoor seating available, so guests can make the most of the stunning setting.
Antika
Serving a fusion of modern Arabic cuisine, the menu at this famed Lebanese export incorporates flavours from across the Middle East. Diners can enjoy a lavish mezze featuring Levantine staples such as hummus, moutabbal, labneh, spicy potatoes, and fried kebbe, while watching an array of live entertainment.
All bookings can be made via The Chefz app