Where We Are Going Today: Koojeh restaurant in Riyadh

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Updated 27 July 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Koojeh restaurant in Riyadh

  • The rice was well-cooked and aromatic, though portion sizes were small, and suitable for only one person

Koojeh restaurant in Riyadh offers a good Persian dining experience. My recent visit included enjoyable dishes, but also highlighted some areas for improvement.

The cozy, well-decorated interior reflects Persian culture and creates a welcoming atmosphere. However, the limited number of tables means reservations are necessary, especially during busy times. The lively environment, with good music, adds charm, but it is not a formal fine dining setting.

A limited range of main dishes is available — kassk badini, kabab barq, veal kebab, and chicken jooja — along with a few sides. While this makes choosing easier, it restricts the variety of Persian cuisine available. The dishes I tried were tasty, and the saffron ice cream was a highlight.

The rice was well-cooked and aromatic, though portion sizes were small, and suitable for only one person. The cold appetizer was enjoyable, but the salad would benefit from more lemon and salt to add zest.

Service was friendly and attentive, though at times a bit uncoordinated. Minor delays were offset by the staff’s willingness to help.

Given the limited choice of Iranian restaurants in Riyadh, Koojeh fills a needed niche. Prices are reasonable, with main dishes ranging from SR47 to SR74 ($13-$20).

I rate Koojeh 8/10 and recommend it for a pleasant meal. I look forward to seeing how it develops in future.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Jackie Restaurant in Riyadh

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Updated 07 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Jackie Restaurant in Riyadh

  • For mains, the wagyu burger was the table’s winner, juicy and well-seasoned with a soft bun that held everything together without falling apart

Jackie Restaurant at the St. Regis in Via Riyadh is one of those places that immediately gives you the sense that you are in for a well-curated evening. The setting feels polished and modern, with warm lighting and a lively atmosphere that would work well for a relaxed dinner or a more celebratory night out.

I visited on a busy evening, yet the service remained smooth. The staff welcomed us with genuine warmth and walked us through the menu. Their suggestions felt natural, not rehearsed, which made choosing easier. Jackie clearly puts effort into both flavor and presentation, and that becomes obvious once the food arrives.

We started with the tuna tartare, which was fresh, bright, and layered with citrus notes that kept it light. The truffle fries were another early favorite, crisp and fragrant with just enough truffle to elevate without overwhelming. The burrata with roasted tomatoes was also a standout, creamy and balanced with a sweet acidity from the slow-roasted tomatoes.

For mains, the wagyu burger was the table’s winner, juicy and well-seasoned with a soft bun that held everything together without falling apart. The black truffle pasta was rich and aromatic, though slightly heavier than expected. The grilled sea bass offered a cleaner, more delicate option and was cooked to a perfect flaky texture.

Dessert was a highlight, especially the chocolate fondant. It arrived warm, with a molten center and a scoop of vanilla ice cream that tied everything together. The lemon tart was another pleasant surprise, sharp enough to contrast the richer dishes.

If there is one drawback, it would be the pricing. While the quality is strong, some dishes, such as the truffle pasta, feel a bit too expensive for what they offer. It makes Jackie feel more like an occasional treat rather than a weekly spot.

Overall, with good service, memorable dishes, and a refined atmosphere, it is easy to see why Jackie has become a popular choice.