Where We Are Going Today: Edo Japanese cuisine in Riyadh

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Updated 21 September 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Edo Japanese cuisine in Riyadh

  • Nigiri and specialty rolls are equally impressive, each bite capturing the delicate balance of authentic Japanese flavors

Edo has quickly established itself as one of Riyadh’s most talked about Japanese dining spots, drawing sushi enthusiasts and ramen lovers alike.

Despite its modest size and long waiting times, the restaurant continues to attract the crowds thanks to its consistent quality, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere. 

Sushi is undoubtedly the highlight. The spicy shrimp rolls and classic California rolls are among the favorites, showcasing fresh fish, perfectly seasoned rice, and careful presentation.

Nigiri and specialty rolls are equally impressive, each bite capturing the delicate balance of authentic Japanese flavors. Guests often single out the popcorn shrimp and lemon sushi as standout items that should not be missed. 

Ramen is another popular choice, with the chicken and beef options offering hearty comfort. The beef tonkatsu and katsu sando have also earned strong praise for their crisp, golden textures and tender meat inside. 

Beyond the food, Edo delivers an atmosphere that feels both cozy and modern. With its clean design and relaxed setting, the restaurant makes for a great casual dining spot.

Although the service can be slow at peak hours due to high demand, staff are friendly and attentive. 

Prices are fair for the quality offered, making Edo an accessible choice for a wide range of diners.

Portions are generous, and the value-for-money factor is often highlighted by regulars who keep returning to explore more of the offerings. 

One of the few drawbacks is the lack of reservations, which means visitors can expect a wait of 20 to 25 minutes during busy hours.

Whether you are in the mood for fresh nigiri, comforting ramen, or a light snack of gyoza and edamame, this spot delivers consistently high-quality Japanese flavors.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Tofareya Restaurant in Jeddah and AlUla

Miro Kebab. (Supplied)
Updated 07 March 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Tofareya Restaurant in Jeddah and AlUla

  • The red groats delivered pure comfort; It is a Saudi staple for a reason, with chicken, tomato sauce, a special mix and ghee coming together in a rich, filling bowl

Tofareya is the kind of Saudi comfort-food spot that can satisfy a craving even as takeaway.

I ordered to-go from the Riyadh branch, and while not every dish traveled perfectly, the order had real highlights. The restaurant also has locations in Jeddah and AlUla, which makes it easy to return for the standouts.

The best bite was the Tawferee chicken samosa. The sambousek triangles arrived crisp, with a noticeably crunchy dough that held up well.

Inside, the chicken slices were boosted by a bright lime mixture that gave the filling a fresh, tangy finish.

The kubayba was another favorite. Shaped into neat squares like grape leaves, it was filled with rice and lifted by date syrup, adding a gentle sweetness that felt uniquely Saudi.

A couple of items were less memorable. The hummus and kibbeh were fine, but they tasted basic compared with the stronger dishes.

The mains carried the meal. Beef kabli was deeply satisfying, with spiced rice, meat, potatoes and the orange note that defines kabli, finished with crispy fried onions.

The red groats delivered pure comfort; It is a Saudi staple for a reason, with chicken, tomato sauce, a special mix and ghee coming together in a rich, filling bowl.

The miro kebab is worth ordering, and the limitation here is takeaway, not the kitchen. This Makkah-style kebab comes with tahini, hamar, bread and a steamed egg salad, and it is built around contrast.

Fresh, it should feel layered and dynamic, with warm meat, creamy tahini and bread that still maintains its structural integrity.

In a to-go box, the components soften and merge, so you lose some of the intended texture and definition. Try to eat it immediately after pickup if you can, but ideally, save it for dine-in.

The mulukhiah fattah also needed more intensity. The Hijazi-inspired layering of bread, molokhiya, tomato sauce and chicken worked in concept, but the overall seasoning could have been bolder to bring the dish into focus.