Akira Back Riyadh Review
The Chef’s Eponymous Restaurant Opened Its Doors to Diners Late Last Year
Saudi Arabia is no stranger to exceptional dining, and the latest addition to Riyadh’s fine dining scene is Akira Back Riyadh. The eponymous restaurant, named after the celebrity chef, opened its doors late last year, bringing a fusion of modern Japanese cuisine with Korean influences to the capital.
Akira Back Riyadh’s Location and Ambiance
Akira Back Riyadh is located in the 1364 Shopping Center within the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ). For those of us who remember the DQ’s exclusive days – where you’d need to flash your ID at the gates – the transformation of this area into a lively hub is still surprising.
Menu Highlights
Our memorable meal began with the Creamy Spinach Salad, which turned out to be a star. The spinach leaves coated in a velvety dressing hit the perfect balance of creamy and nutty. With crunch from the roasted nuts and a buttery finish, each bite felt indulgent yet refreshing.
We ordered the California Maki Roll, which was flawlessly seasoned and rolled, delivering exactly the level of excellence one would expect from Chef Akira and this classic item. On the other hand, the Crispy Kalbi Roll was filled with tender short ribs and a light crunch. While delicious to bite, it could’ve used a touch more seasoning to bring out its full potential.
Main Course
The 48-hour Wagyu Short Ribs stole the show, priced at SAR 270. It’s a splurge, but one bite and you know it’s worth every riyal. The meat was unbelievably tender, and each rich, smoky, and juicy bite was paired beautifully with the vegetables.
The Miso Black Cod was another highlight, with its silky texture and glaze. The fish practically fell apart at the touch of a fork. The miso marinade gave it a sweet kick that paired beautifully with the buttery texture, resulting in a dish that delivered on all fronts.
We also enjoyed the Vegetable Fried Rice, which was simple yet elevated and toasted for a nutty undertone. It was the kind of side dish that could easily hold its own as a main.
Dessert
Ending on a sweet note, we debated over the tempting Akira Back Dessert Platter but ultimately settled on the Apple Harumaki. This crumbly, creamy, and comforting dessert made for a satisfying conclusion to the meal.
Beverages
Mocktails are the stars of the beverage menu, and we favored the Beehives, served in a chic copper glass. This blend of lemongrass, jasmine tea, and honey had a slightly bitter edge, but it’s one of those acquired tastes that we rather enjoyed.
Conclusion
Akira Back Riyadh is a solid addition to the city’s growing roster of fine-dining destinations. While we’re still partial to Chef Akira Back’s Dasha, which has since closed, and the FACT award-winning Namu, this spot holds its own.
FAQs
Q: What is the price range of Akira Back Riyadh?
A: The price range of Akira Back Riyadh is not specified in this article.
Q: Is Akira Back Riyadh suitable for families?
A: This article does not mention whether Akira Back Riyadh is suitable for families or not.
Q: Can I book a table at Akira Back Riyadh?
A: Yes, you can book a table at Akira Back Riyadh by visiting their website or contacting them directly.