Where We Are Going Today: ‘Durrat China’ – authentic Chinese cuisine in Riyadh

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Mixed Dumplings – A delicious combination of chicken, beef, and shrimp dumplings, topped with chili flakes and served with dipping sauces for extra flavor. (Supplied)
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Hot & Sour Soup – A warming bowl of soup packed with shrimp, mushrooms, and vegetables, offering a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors. (Supplied)
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Shrimp with Garlic Sauce – A flavorful and savory dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a rich garlic sauce, served with vegetables. (Supplied)
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Updated 17 March 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Durrat China’ – authentic Chinese cuisine in Riyadh

  • 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

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 The interior design feels outdated, and better ventilation would create a more inviting atmosphere.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.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Dear Duck in Jeddah

Dear Duck entrance in La Paz Plaza Jeddau. (Supplied)
Updated 02 January 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Dear Duck in Jeddah

  • The croissant was delicious and light, perfect for those who do not want a heavy first meal of the day

If you love an aesthetically pleasing brunch spot, Dear Duck in Jeddah is the place for you.

Located in the up-and-coming La Paz Plaza, Dear Duck is hard to miss with its large yellow door and matching umbrellas and outdoor tables. Dear Duck classifies itself as an “all day eatery” but the rave on TikTok has been about its brunch hour.

I decided to visit for brunch on a sunny Jeddah afternoon. The interior design is pleasant with quirky pieces and colors to emphasize the theme throughout.

It has little duck feet hanging from the ceiling, with the waiters wearing shirts with “Dear Saudi, I love you” written on the back.

I am a big fan of having a savory dish before dessert and Dear Duck’s brunch menu made that possible. I also place a lot of emphasis on a good, caffeinated beverage to pair with my brunch, which was also available.

For my main dish, from The Egg Club section of the menu, I chose the Cozy Croissant costing SR58 ($15) which was stuffed with fluffy eggs, cheese, and smoked turkey. For a less basic dish, the menu offers shakshuka, an acai bowl, and oats among other options.

The croissant was delicious and light, perfect for those who do not want a heavy first meal of the day. I paired my meal with their Sweet Matcha (SR28) opting for an oat-milk substitute and added vanilla syrup. The iced matcha was balanced in sweetness and the powder was whisked into a nice green shade.

My friend and I decided to explore an option from The Sweet Corner section of the menu, which has Classic Pancakes, Apple Pancakes, Dulce Dreams pancakes, and Famous Croissant Pudding.

We decided on the Classic Pancakes (SR42) to maintain a traditional brunch meal, which came topped with mixed berries and a side of maple syrup.

The pancakes were thick and less on the fluffy side, but they paired nicely with the syrup. On my next visit, I would love to try the Famous Croissant Pudding, which costs SR62 and comes with caramel sauce and cinnamon cream.

If you are on the hunt for an aesthetic and bubbly brunch spot in Jeddah, Dear Duck is a great choice. I would call ahead for reservations just in case because the restaurant has been receiving a lot of attention online.