ROKA brings the modern Japanese robatayaki concept — grilling over hot charcoal — to the Saudi capital.
The restaurant, located in the heart of the luxury Tahliah Gate development in Riyadh, features a Japanese-inspired interior with a robata counter made of wood.
Diners enjoy watching their food cooked over hot charcoal, a Japanese method of cooking similar to barbecue.
Choose a seasonal tasting menu or the premium tasting menu, with dishes such as tuna tartare with Oscietra caviar and yellowtail sashimi with yuzu-truffle dressing, wasabi ponzu dressing, and black cod marinated in yuzu miso — a classic dish in Japanese culture.
Finish with a tropical dessert containing matcha ice cream and exotic fruits, or Japanese cheesecake, almond cake and green tea ice cream.
For more information visit Instagram @rokariyadhofficial.
What We Are Eating Today: ROKA
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What We Are Eating Today: ROKA
- Finish with a tropical dessert containing matcha ice cream and exotic fruits, or Japanese cheesecake, almond cake and green tea ice cream
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Maritime’ in Jeddah
- From the soup station, the cauliflower and truffle offering, finished with parmigiano reggiano and a squeeze of lemon, was creamy and satisfying, though slightly mild and would have benefited from stronger seasoning
With cooler breezes and clear skies, a seaside brunch feels especially fitting in Jeddah.
Over the weekend, I visited Maritime at The Jeddah Edition, which offers an international open-buffet brunch on Saturdays, accompanied by views of the Red Sea from the yacht club side.
The salad bar was thoughtfully curated. Standout items included quinoa tabbouleh, smoked salmon with sour cream and capers, and a pesto chicken salad that had a refreshing balance of flavors. It made for a light and enjoyable side.
The main buffet featured a varied selection. The beef tagine with plums impressed with its balance of sweetness and depth, while the Indian tandoori chicken served with spiced rice delivered bold, comforting flavors. A mushroom pasta was appealing in both aroma and presentation.
From the soup station, the cauliflower and truffle offering, finished with parmigiano reggiano and a squeeze of lemon, was creamy and satisfying, though slightly mild and would have benefited from stronger seasoning.
Dessert was a highlight. The spread included an international mix of cakes, mini mille-feuille, tarts and Middle Eastern sweets.
The chocolate ganache tart was rich and indulgent, alongside an Italian-style cream brulee with a coffee twist that stood out for its depth of flavor. The red berries mille-feuille offered a pleasing contrast of crisp pastry and creamy filling, pairing well with a cortado.
The ambience at Maritime is relaxed and inviting.
Outdoor seating offers sunset sea views with live guitar and saxophone performances, while indoor seating provides a quieter but equally comfortable setting. Earthy tones, wooden finishes, greenery and rounded furnishings create a warm atmosphere.
The brunch is priced at SR250 ($67) per person. For more information, visit Instagram @maritimejeddah.
