Lusin, an Armenian restaurant with branches in Riyadh and Jeddah, offers a culinary journey into Armenia’s rich and diverse flavors.
Known for its elegant ambiance and carefully curated menu, Lusin is a great option for those seeking a unique dining experience in the Kingdom.
For our takeout order, the appetizers were the standout. The Lusin special muhammara, a red pepper paste with walnuts, had a tangy, nutty depth that lingered pleasantly.
It is the kind of dish that feels right at home on any mezze table. The Lusin hummus, with its basil and dried tomatoes, added a fresh and herbaceous twist to the classic recipe.
The famous Lusin kibbeh, made with bulgur, spiced meat, nuts, and pomegranate, was perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
However, the signature eggplant rolls, stuffed with walnuts and cream and topped with pomegranate seeds, did not quite hit the mark for me. While beautifully presented, the dish was underwhelming. It is something I can do without.
The mains were hearty and satisfying. The authentic Armenian manti — tender dumplings filled with spiced meat and paired with a tangy yogurt and tomato sauce — was comforting and flavorful; a true highlight.
The lamb stuffed with spiced rice was aromatic and cooked well, while the ghapama, a pumpkin stuffed with rice, veal, and nuts, was both visually stunning and delicious.
Not everything was perfect — the pumpkin soup was unimpressive and the eggplant rolls fell short — but my family and I had a good experience overall.
The food was flavorful, the packaging thoughtful, and the portions generous. We would happily try Lusin again, especially for its standout mains and appetizers.
