Where We Are Going Today: ‘Phet Phet’ Thai restaurant in Riyadh

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For more information, check their Instagram @phetphetsa. (AN Photo by Waad Hussain)
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For more information, check their Instagram @phetphetsa. (AN Photo by Waad Hussain)
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Updated 06 May 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Phet Phet’ Thai restaurant in Riyadh

Located at Pure Center on Takhassusi Road, Phet Phet is one of the boldest Thai kitchens to hit Riyadh — and it lives up to its name, which literally means “very spicy.”

With its neon signs, playful branding, and sleek modern seating, the place feels like a Bangkok street stall reimagined with modern aesthetics. 

The menu leans heavily into bold, unapologetic flavors. I started with the shrimp cashew for SR75 ($20) — a standout dish that combined sweet, savory, and spicy notes perfectly, with just the right crunch.

Another favorite was the tom yum nam khon for SR 55, a rich and creamy soup layered with lemongrass, lime, and plump shrimp. It was intense and comforting at the same time.

Among the many appetizers we tried, the pow pow shrimp, chili wontons, and prawn toast all delivered.

The pad ki mao chicken and panang curry chicken were flavorful, with deep spice profiles that felt authentic. Even side dishes like sticky rice, coconut rice, and the playful Kinza cola added to the experience.

For dessert, the mango sticky rice (SR 35) offered a cool, sweet end to the fiery meal. 

The place runs on energy — fast service, loud tables, and constant movement from the open kitchen to the packed dining area.

But here’s the only downside: Phet Phet is small. With how popular it already is, the space can feel cramped, and getting a seat without a wait is tricky. 

Still, for those who love real heat, bold flavors, and a vibe that feels straight out of Thailand, Phet Phet is a must-visit.

For more information, check their Instagram @phetphetsa. 


Where We Are Going Today: Lahori Village

Updated 17 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Lahori Village

  • While it is not a hard-and-fast rule, I often happily find that the simpler a restaurant presents itself to customers, the better the food

RIYADH: Sometimes it seems like the gaudiness of a restaurant’s interior is inversely proportional to the quality of the food.

That is why when I am dragged along to an eatery where the staff are dressed in ill-fitting waistcoats, where oversized chandeliers dangle precariously above diners, where faded tablecloths clash with faux vintage wallpaper, my expectations of enjoying a quality meal plummet.

While it is not a hard-and-fast rule, I often happily find that the simpler a restaurant presents itself to customers, the better the food.

These are my favorite kinds of restaurants, the ones that let the food speak for itself.

Lahori Village in Riyadh’s King Fahd district fits comfortably into this second category.

Though clean and comfortable, it is an unfussy establishment with few frills that does one thing very well: serve hearty, authentic and delicious Pakistani cuisine.

The mutton karahi is swimming in flavor — soft delectable chunks of meat in a rich sauce with a ginger tang.

The freshly baked garlic naan has a perfect hint of crunch giving way to soft dough perfect for soaking up a sauce.

The special fish barbecue is another highlight, with expertly balanced spice and sweetness.

Not every dish is available every day, so if you are after something in particular make sure to check the menu ahead of time.

But that limitation does not seem to put off customers, the place has been bustling with activity every time I have visited.

The cool kheer was a fantastic way to close off the meal — a light, sweet offering that leaves little to be desired.

And in a city rife with eye-watering prices, Lahori Village is a welcome respite, with the bill unlikely to upset most diners.

It is an all-round honest offering to the punters of Riyadh and well worth a visit.