There’s a new reason for us to love Fridays, thanks to the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh. Just in time for spring, the well-renowned hotel launched the first ever brunch that runs from 9:00 AM all the way to 5:00 PM.
As self-professed foodies, brunch buffets are right up our alley but if and only if it’s done right. Our checklist consists of four things: variety, flavor, experience, and value for money. Did Al Orjouan at the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh tick those boxes? Yes, they absolutely did.
We began our brunch experience from the entrance of Al Orjouan, where we were greeted and ushered in by one of their gentlemen. He even offered to give us a tour of the different stations, given it was our first time.
After being seated, we went to the fresh juice press section, which we must note was the perfect way to prep us for the feast that’s about to ensue. We tried out the Arabian Garden mocktail, which was quite refreshing and a bit of a palate cleanser for some of us.
Having arrived at 10:30 AM, we got to enjoy the breakfast to the fullest, leading all the way through their lunch menu. This allowed us to fully appreciate the variety of choices the brunch had to offer. It was without a doubt a trip around the world all in one go. All the offerings from the mouthwatering breads, cheese, and cold cuts, were nothing short of fresh and delectable. One of us was even pleasantly surprise to find clean-living options for the health-conscious. Interestingly enough, there was also a Bloody Mary station, a first again in the city— the novelty of it led us to putt together our own concoction topped with bacon, which actually turned out to be quite yummy.
There’s truly something for every palate– carnivores, omnivores, vegans, and downright picky eaters will find a helping that would satisfy their tastebuds.
One of the challenges to hosting a buffet of this scale is it sometimes come at the cost of quality and taste. Too much variety can lead to a hit and miss among dishes. Executive chef Juraj Kalna and his culinary brigade placed our skepticism to rest within the first few minutes. The food speaks for itself, we fell in love over and over at every draw of our forks.
Between Hong serving up its famous authentic Peking duck and Azzuro tossing fresh pasta in the pots and pans; expect for nothing short of a gastronomical pampering. The BBQ station outside is also not to be missed, among others. Seafood lovers, you will be happy. May we add, Very happy.
If there was a pageant for deserts, The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is sure to take away the crown. Not only are these sweet confectionaries delectable, the presentation is pure artistry. Leave room for the lemon tart, the ice cream, and oh the cheesecake.
Parents, there’s no need to miss out, in fact, this brunch is ideal for a family weekend experience. Your kids will surely be entertained by the facepainting, bowling, children’s activities, cotton candy, and more at the Strike Alley. There’s also a clown and mascot roaming the floor, which is bound to put a smile on faces young and old.
The brunch is available every Friday from 9:00am – 5:00 pm at 325 SAR per person inclusive of juices and mocktails, and 145 SAR for children aged 6-12 years.