Where We Are Going Today: ‘Beefbar’ Restaurant in Riyadh

The Croque Sando at Beefbar — golden, crisp, and topped with a rich green sauce. Visually impressive, but taste-wise? A bit too safe for the hype. (Supplied)
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Updated 20 April 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Beefbar’ Restaurant in Riyadh

  • Overall, the ambiance is impressive and the concept has potential, but most of the food was forgettable

Beefbar, originally from Monte Carlo and known for its elevated take on street food, is one of the most talked-about steakhouses in Riyadh.

The space itself is beautiful — tall ceilings, dark tones and elegant interiors that give it a regal, high-end atmosphere.

But my experience did not live up to the hype.

We started the meal with what was supposed to be a Caesar salad, but it was watery and completely underwhelming. The croque sando sounded promising, but the flavor was flat — nothing more than an ordinary sandwich with fancy presentation.

The spicy pasta was perhaps the biggest letdown of the night.

The only standout dish for me was the wagyu tacos. The shells were perfectly crisp and the wagyu was cooked just right — juicy, flavorful and balanced.

We also tried the New York striploin, which came with a great sauce and was cooked well, but for SR355 ($95), it did not feel special or memorable enough to justify the price.

For dessert, we went with their signature marble chocolate, which was good and warm.

Overall, the ambiance is impressive and the concept has potential, but most of the food was forgettable. The biggest downside? The prices are extremely high for what you get. It’s a one-time visit for me.

For more details, check their Instagram @beefbar_riyadh.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Maritime’ in Jeddah

Updated 22 December 2025
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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.