There is no doubt that dining in Riyadh has taken a turn upwards in pricing, but that does not make it impossible to indulge in fine dining flavors without your budget getting in the way. If you are looking for a new spot to check out in Riyadh without breaking the bank, Saolah could be your next destination. 

Located in a buzzing plaza on Al-Urubah road, the restaurant is a lively space with a simple yet elegant ambience accented with jade tiles and greenery. The Italian-inspired menu is bursting with flavor, from colorful salads to hearty mains. 

We started off with the grilled pumpkin salad; grilled pumpkins and chickpeas atop a bed of arugula, topped with a labneh dressing and parmesan cheese, which was the perfect mix of savory and sweet for a palate primer. The eggplant parmesan starter was crisp and paired with a smooth but tangy marinara sauce. 

Pizza is a must — we recommend the 12-hour smoked firewood brisket or the bresaola burrata for white sauce lovers or a classic margarita for those who prefer an authentic tomato base. Saolah’s rigatoni pink pasta is also popular and not to be missed. 

For mains, the striploin steak with pepper sauce is cooked to perfection to your desired doneness, paired with frites, while the grilled chicken with mushroom sauce is tender, juicy and full of flavor. 

If lunch or dinner items do not appeal, they also offer breakfast meals all day. From avocado benedicts to shakshuka to various types of manakeesh and lighter sandwiches, there is bound to be something to satisfy your appetite.

We recommend that you seal the deal with one of their dessert options, such as the caramel-frosting french toast or cheesecake pancake.

Durrat China has 14 branches around the Kingdom, offering a dining experience with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. From soups to seafood, each dish aims to capture the essence of Chinese cuisine.

One of their standouts is the tom yum soup for SR26 ($7), a comforting dish with fresh shrimp and aromatic herbs which strikes the perfect balance between tangy, spicy and savory flavors.

Another must-try is their hot and sour soup, a rich and flavorful option that packs a punch with the ideal blend of heat and acidity.

For seafood lovers, the shrimp with garlic sauce for SR86 is a great choice. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, coated in a fragrant and savory garlic sauce. But if you’re looking for something with a bit more spice, the shrimp with chili sauce delivers a satisfying kick without overpowering the balance of flavors.

Another fantastic appetizer is the mixed dumplings, a juicy and flavorful combination of chicken, mutton and shrimp — a delicious way to start your meal.

However, while the food at Durrat China is exceptional, the ambiance could be improved. The interior design feels outdated, and better ventilation would create a more inviting atmosphere. A modern refresh would elevate the overall experience and make it even more enjoyable.

Despite this, the quality of the food and available parking make Durrat China a must-visit for anyone in Riyadh who craves authentic Chinese flavors away from the noise and traffic.

The combination of fresh ingredients, well-balanced flavors and generous portions makes it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.

For more information, check their Instagram @durratchina.