Where We Are Going Today: ‘Hellenika’ taste of Greece in Alkhobar

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Hellenika Grilled Meze Platter: A vibrant selection of grilled meats and vegetables, accompanied by herb-infused flatbread, offering a rich, savory experience that showcases the best of Mediterranean grilling. (An photo by Waad Hussain)
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Hellenika Dips Tray: A delightful trio of Greek flavors featuring Mediterranean hummus, tzatziki, and spicy feta cheese spread, served with fresh grilled pita bread, perfect for starting your meal with an authentic taste of Greece. (An photo by Waad Hussain)
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Breathtaking Sea View: Enjoy your meal with an incredible sea view at Hellenika Al-Khobar, where the serene waterfront adds an extra layer of relaxation to your dining experience. (An photo by Waad Hussain)
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Traditional Greek Coffee: A strong, aromatic Greek coffee, perfect for rounding off your meal with a taste of Mediterranean tradition and culture. (An photo by Waad Hussain)
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Updated 10 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Hellenika’ taste of Greece in Alkhobar

  • Hellenika’s menu is on the pricier side, but the quality, authentic flavors, and fine-dining ambiance make it worth the cost.

Hellenika in Alkhobar brings a taste of Greece to the Eastern Province, set in a tranquil ambiance that mirrors the serene Mediterranean coast.

Located along the coastline, Hellenika offers an incredible sea view that adds to the dining experience, creating a setting that transports diners straight to the Greek islands.

We recommend starting off with the Hellenika dips tray for SR75 ($20), a delightful trio featuring Mediterranean hummus, cool tzatziki, and a spicy feta cheese spread, served with grilled corn pita bread. Each dip bursts with unique flavors, with the spicy feta adding a satisfying kick.

The cheese saganaki (SR60), a pan-melted Graviera cheese, is rich and indulgent, showcasing a simple yet bold Greek classic.

For mains, the kataifi prawns (SR85) wrapped in crispy filo pastry and served with florina mayo are a perfect blend of texture and taste.

Another standout is the chicken gyros tacos (SR55), a creative Greek-Mexican fusion combining chargrilled chicken, guacamole, tzatziki, and pickled onions. The omega salad (SR75) with kale, quinoa, pomegranate, and grilled manouri cheese offers a refreshing, nutrient-packed option.

End with loukoumade, Greek doughnut bites paired with vanilla olive oil ice cream, giving a unique finish to the meal. You can also pair your dessert with Greek coffee, which is strong and aromatic, providing an authentic taste of Greece.

Hellenika’s menu is on the pricier side, but the quality, authentic flavors, and fine-dining ambiance make it worth the cost.

Some dishes, like the Hellenika grilled meze, tend to be overly oily, which may not appeal to everyone.

The restaurant’s delightful flavors, breathtaking sea view, and inviting ambiance make it a go-to spot for Greek cuisine lovers.

For more information, check their Instagram @hellenikarestaurant.

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Ziba Restaurant in Riyadh

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Updated 10 March 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Ziba Restaurant in Riyadh

  • A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to expand, and one of the newest additions bringing a touch of Persian sophistication to the capital is Ziba.

With roots in Alkhobar, the restaurant has built a reputation for blending traditional flavors with an elegant dining experience.

When I arrived, the first thing that stood out was the atmosphere. The interior felt thoughtfully curated, with Persian-inspired design elements that create a warm yet refined setting.

Rich carpets, subtle lighting and artistic details add the impression of stepping into a space that celebrates centuries of craftsmanship from the region rather than conforming to modern trends.

The menu features a variety of grilled meats, rice dishes and classic appetizers that highlight the depth of the culinary tradition.

I began with the mezze platter, which offered a colorful introduction to the meal.

One standout was kashk-o-bademjan, a creamy eggplant dish topped with herbs that delivered rich, comforting flavors. It was the kind of starter that invites you to slow down and enjoy each bite.

The main course, however, is where Ziba truly shines. The joojeh kebab — marinated chicken grilled to perfection — arrived tender and lightly charred, paired with fragrant saffron rice.

The rice was fluffy and aromatic, while the chicken carried just enough seasoning to enhance its natural taste.

Another highlight was the mixed grill platter, which allows diners to sample different kebabs in one sitting. Each cut of meat had its own texture and flavor profile, making the dish both generous and satisfying.

Prices are relatively reasonable considering the restaurant’s upscale atmosphere.

A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill.

Service throughout the evening was welcoming and attentive. The restaurant was quite busy, which meant the wait for the main course was slightly longer than expected.

To end the meal, I ordered Persian tea, which arrived steaming and fragrant — a simple but perfect conclusion.

Riyadh has no shortage of restaurants, but Ziba manages to stand out by staying true to its roots.

Find more details on @ziba.saudi.