LâRIA Review: Lake Como’s fabulous flavours shine in Riyadh
The Pop-up at Mandarin Oriental, Al Faisaliah
The Concept
Riyadh’s ever-evolving dining scene has welcomed an exciting pop-up concept: L˜ARIA from Italy’s Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como. The restaurant blends the essence of Italian cuisine with Japanese influences, with Chef Massimiliano Blasone at the helm. This limited-time pop-up promises a gastronomic adventure.
The Location
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, perfectly embodies Chef Massimiliano’s values and aspirations, consistent with the original L˜ARIA outpost at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como. This property offers the opportunity to explore new frontiers in gastronomy.
The Ambiance
Walking into L˜ARIA feels like stepping into a serene space. The lighting bathes the interiors in a glow, highlighting the earthy tones of the cushioned furnishings. The decor balances simplicity and elegance with a ceiling designed to mimic waves, evoking a subtle nod to the restaurant’s Lake Como origins. Large windows frame the hotel’s drop-off area, while the kitchen window adds a touch of culinary theatrics, teasing diners with glimpses of the chefs in action.
The Menu
Our meal began with a duo of Salmon Aburi and Wagyu Domino Tataki, both flavored with truffle. The salmon was lightly seared, delivering a buttery texture, while the Wagyu Tataki was tender and rich, elevated by the earthy texture of the truffle. The Spinach and Avocado Salad was a refreshing surprise, breaking away from the monotony of standard lettuce-based salads, offering a flavorful punch with every bite. The Prawn Tempura, while a basic choice, was executed flawlessly. Each prawn was coated in a feather-light batter and fried to a golden crisp without any hint of greasiness.
The Mains
Moving on to the mains, the Homemade Black Truffle Tagliolino set the bar high. The fresh, hand-crafted pasta had a silky texture, coated in a creamy truffle-infused sauce with additional truffle shavings on top. The Seabass was perfectly cooked, with a buttery richness, each bite seeming to dissolve on the palate, leaving behind a subtle sweetness. The Lamb Chops offered a bold contrast, seasoned to perfection, juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. The subtle hint of spice added complexity, striking a perfect balance without overpowering.
Dessert
The meal concluded with the delightful Milk Cremino. This layered dessert was creamy and crumbly with a burst of raspberry. Despite its richness, the dish felt light, leaving us with a perfect ending note.
Service
Service at L˜ARIA was impeccable. The staff’s timing was flawless, ensuring each dish arrived at a pace that allowed us to savor every bite. Their attentiveness was subtle yet effective, enhancing the overall experience. "Ongoing training of our staff is prioritized, to guarantee maximum efficiency and preparation, so that we can always provide impeccable service to our guests," shared the chef.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dining experience that blends Italian and Japanese flavors, L˜ARIA Riyadh is a destination not to be missed. With its innovative fusion cuisine, impeccable service, and sophisticated ambiance, L˜ARIA is a pop-up that deserves a permanent place in Riyadh’s dining scene.
FAQs
- What is the duration of the pop-up?
The pop-up runs until 26 February. - What is the location of L˜ARIA?
L˜ARIA is located at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. - How would you describe the ambiance of L˜ARIA?
The ambiance is serene, with a balance of simplicity and elegance, evoking a subtle nod to the restaurant’s Lake Como origins. - What is the highlight of the menu?
The highlight is the innovative fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors, with dishes like the Homemade Black Truffle Tagliolino and the Lamb Chops. - Can I make a reservation?
For more information and to make a reservation, visit www.mandarinoriental.com.