Where We Are Going Today: ‘Memos’ Italian-inspired dining in Riyadh

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A comforting bowl of Pappardelle with Chicken, featuring handmade pasta in a rich tomato-cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and microgreens. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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A freshly assembled Crunchy Chicken Caesar salad, with crispy chicken, crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of special Caesar dressing, topped generously with parmesan. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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A delectable Burrata Al Forno served fresh out of the oven, oozing creamy burrata cheese wrapped in pizza dough and topped with vibrant pesto sauce. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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A luxurious Truffle Pizza, topped with fresh black truffles, truffle paste, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of parmesan for an indulgent experience. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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Updated 02 December 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Memos’ Italian-inspired dining in Riyadh

  • The pappardelle with chicken rounded out the meal, with handmade pasta and balanced mix of tomato sauce, fresh cream, and zesty ginger notes

Memos in Riyadh is a great spot for Italian-inspired dining with a touch of elegance. From its vibrant ambiance to its meticulous dish presentation, the restaurant provides an experience that is both indulgent and memorable.

The Scottish garden for SR49 ($13) is a standout drink with its balanced mix of berries and hint of cinnamon, while the fresh orange juice was a refreshing and simple classic.

Among the appetizers, the burrata al forno for SR76 stole the show. This oven-baked burrata, wrapped in pizza dough and topped with pesto, offered creamy richness paired with a crispy crust.

For salads, the crunchy chicken Caesar added a fresh twist to the classic, with crispy chicken atop crisp lettuce and a tangy dressing.

Moving to mains, the truffle pizza for SR97 impressed. The rich blend of truffle paste, fresh black truffles, and mozzarella make it an ideal choice for truffle lovers.

The pappardelle with chicken rounded out the meal, with handmade pasta and balanced mix of tomato sauce, fresh cream, and zesty ginger notes.

Service was exceptional, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a seamless dining experience, while the superb views and welcoming atmosphere further elevated the visit.

Memo’s popularity means the space can feel busy, and reservations are recommended.

For more information, check their Instagram @memos.ksa.

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Wild Flower

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Updated 25 January 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Wild Flower

  • The menu offers a modern fusion concept: from Italian dishes to Middle Eastern cuisine with a local twist, there is something for everyone

If you are ever in AlUla and looking for a dining experience in the heart of the oasis, overlooking its lush farmlands and surrounded by palm trees, I highly recommend checking out Wild Flower in Daimumah. 

What is really unique about Wild Flower is its farm-to-table concept: as you discover the different vegetables and herbs grown in Daimumah, such as eggplant, coriander, tomatoes, spring onions, arugula, and chili peppers, you get the burst of flavor from the fresh produce straight to your plate.

The menu offers a modern fusion concept: from Italian dishes to Middle Eastern cuisine with a local twist, there is something for everyone.

We started off the meal with some cold mezze. The avocado hummus and beetroot hummus, served with beetroot chips, were light and refreshing as we took a break from the harsh sun under the restaurant’s shaded seating area.

We really enjoyed the watermelon salad that had an interesting mix between tangy and sweet, but the crunchy parmesan truffle fries are a must. 

For mains, we opted for the vegetarian biryani, which was not anything to write home about, but the lemon garlic pasta dish, served with grilled chicken, was definitely one we would go back for.

We also really enjoyed their Moroccan-style roasted chicken, which was super juicy and spiced to perfection.

The service, although a bit slow, was OK. The staff did their best to accommodate our needs. When I ordered an iced ginger lemonade and was served hot ginger tea instead, they were happy to change the order. The spot is moderately priced and perfect for sharing if you are going with a large group.

It is also a great spot to visit solo. While there is a small entry fee for Daimumah, you can explore the farms, pick vegetables to take home, feed the goats, join an art workshop at The Nest, see art installations, and learn about AlUla’s landscape, flora and fauna — and then finish the visit with a good meal.