Located in Riyadh, Paolo restaurant offers a diverse menu that blends Mediterranean classics with contemporary twists. While some dishes shine, others miss the mark.
I began with the fet-okra salad, featuring crispy okra, salty feta, and tart pomegranate for contrast. The okra should be perfectly fried, but my takeout version arrived limp and lost its appeal.
The grilled chicken club works best with light sauce, but the chicken shawarma is the star. Tender, spice-marinated chicken wrapped in fresh saj with garlic sauce is lean, flavorful, and not greasy.
The halloumi club highlights Mediterranean flavors, with salty cheese balanced by pickled eggplant and tomato jam. The textures were well-handled, making it enjoyable.
Among the signature items, the shrimp tacos have potential, but bland seafood makes them forgettable. I would not reorder the taco cheese burger because its spices and guacamole-beef mix clash rather than blend.
Paolo’s shawarma is a standout for those seeking a lighter, healthier option. Avoid over-sauced sandwiches and forced fusion dishes — the kitchen shines when focusing on authentic flavors.
For more details, visit @paolo.rest.
