Where We Are Going Today: ‘Pastamamma’ — Italian dining in Riyadh

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Updated 11 August 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Pastamamma’ — Italian dining in Riyadh

  • The pasta truly is the star here as the fresh black truffle fettuccine alfredo is an indulgent treat with creamy and fragrant taste topped with tender slices of chicken

Located in Riyadh Park Mall, Pastamamma offers a refined Italian dining experience. The polished yet relaxed ambiance sets the stage for a good hearty meal, making it an ideal spot for those seeking fine dining.

The starters show a thoughtful attention to detail. The grilled aubergine and hummus salad stands out, with its smoky honey-glazed aubergine paired perfectly with creamy homemade chickpea hummus and a tangy mango dressing. In addition, the grilled garlic prawns and rocket salad is fresh and vibrant, a great way to whet the appetite without being heavy.

The pasta truly is the star here as the fresh black truffle fettuccine alfredo is an indulgent treat with creamy and fragrant taste topped with tender slices of chicken. The quattro formaggi casarecce with crispy bresaola offers a great mix of textures and flavors, though the richness might feel overwhelming for those preferring lighter fare. For spice lovers, the trottole arrabbiata with chorizo adds a pleasant kick without overpowering the palate.

On the grill, the chicken alla Milanese and grilled flank steak are executed well. The grilled salmon and prawns are equally impressive, cooked just right and complemented by vibrant sauces. Sides like herbed potatoes and grilled vegetables provide a nice balance to the steaks.

Desserts like the strawberry and thyme panna cotta are refreshing, while the gelato trio offers a satisfying sweet finish. Drinks such as the yuzu and kiwi lemonade bring a bright, zesty something and are not to be missed.

That said, Pastamamma leans toward the pricey side, reflecting its fine dining status. A meal for two can easily reach around SR500. While portions are generous, the overall experience might not fit every budget.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Offbrief cafe in Diriyah

Updated 14 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Offbrief cafe in Diriyah

  • Offbrief’s design is colorful and playful. However, some of the seating is not particularly comfortable, and the open windows allowed mosquitos inside, which shortened my stay

Offbrief opened in Diriyah’s creative district, JAX, less than two months ago. The café offers a range of hot and cold drinks alongside a small selection of sweets in a relaxed and welcoming space that’s ideal for both casual meet-ups and quiet solo moments.

The outdoor area is lively — well-suited for social gatherings with friends or family. Inside, the atmosphere is calmer, making it a good option for catching up on a book, working, or for informal meetings.

I was there to work, and ordered an iced matcha latte with banana bread, which cost a total of SR36 — a reasonable price. The banana bread was a highlight, while the matcha latte’s earthy flavor is probably better suited to dedicated matcha fans than to casual drinkers.

Offbrief’s design is colorful and playful. However, some of the seating is not particularly comfortable, and the open windows allowed mosquitos inside, which shortened my stay.

Overall, Offbrief left a positive impression, particularly in terms of ambience, friendly staff, and thoughtful design. While my experience had a few drawbacks, it’s a space I would return to, especially during the daytime and with company, to enjoy the setting in a more relaxed way.