< PreviousWINTER DISHES 30 December 2024 timeoutriyadh.com Truffle risotto at San Marzano TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 30TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 3030/11/2024 16:0630/11/2024 16:06WINTER DISHES timeoutriyadh.com December 2024 31 lamb kabsas in town. Delve through multiple layers of marinated meat nestled simply among mountains of spiced rice. There’s also a brilliant pumpkin ravioli served with tomato sauce and musamana so the vegetarians are well taken care of too. Be sure to take a seat on the outdoor terrace while you can – it’s an absolutely delightful spot. O SAR120. An Nakheel, suhailrestaurant.com (92 000 2690). LAMB SHANK ROGAN JOSH Where to order it: Gymkhana Time Out’s Best Indian Restaurant in Riyadh, it’s little surprise that Gymkhana is one of our top picks for a winter warmer. Spice levels have been well adapted to suit our city, but it’s still a menu of bold, intense flavours. Go in a group so you can try as many dishes as possible – you won’t be disappointed. O SAR165. Via Riyadh, Al Hada, @gymkhana.sa (013 663 7000). LENTIL SOUP Where to order it: Yauatcha Comforting, nutritious and a meal in and of itself, lentil soup is a staple dish for many during the cooler months. At Yauatcha, take it up a notch with the addition of shimeji mushrooms and Angus beef. O SAR55. Al Faisaliah Mall, Al Olaya, @yauatchariyadh. POULET AU FOIS GRAS Where to order it: La Petite Maison Not that we ever need an excuse to go to LPM, but come winter, our order here looks slightly different. Our go-to of salads and ceviche to share followed by the Chilean bass gets replaced by the utterly sumptuous whole roasted chicken with foie gras and a dollop of gratin dauphinois. The most elegant take on a roast dinner we’ve ever had, perfect for the winter season. O SAR650. Al Olaya, lpmrestaurants.com (92 001 1794). CHICKEN RAMEN Where to order it: Tokyo Billed as Saudi’s first Japanese restaurant, decades on Tokyo in As Sulimaniyah remains a super spot for everything from classic sashimi to crispy tacos. Come winter though and there’s only one thing we’re ordering – a big steaming bowl of salty, slurpable ramen. If anything’s going to cure us of this season’s pesky chills and sniffles, it’s this dish. O From SAR73. As Sulimaniyah, tokyoarabia.com (92 000 9662). TRUFFLE RISOTTO Where to order it: San Marzano To be fair, we would eat this truffle risotto even when it’s sweltering. But its rich earthy nuttiness is all the better during winter when our bodies crave more intense flavours. That’s one bowl of warm creamy goodness just waiting to be gobbled up. O SAR68. Laysen Valley, sanmarzano.me. SWEET DISHES CHOCOLATE MARSHMALLOW PANCAKES Where to order it: Fuwa This new Riyadh café has just dropped a cosy treat for the winter season. Don’t miss the signature Japanese pancakes topped with rich chocolate and toasted marshmallows. Whether for breakfast or dessert, pair them with a hot chocolate for the ultimate winter treat. Why have regular s’mores when you can have them in the form of fluffy pancakes? O SAR37. Al Aqiq, @fuwapancakes. MAQUSHOOSH Where to order it: Maiz The first Saudi fine-dining eatery of its kind, Maiz celebrates the full spectrum of Saudi cuisine in an elegant venue that doesn’t overlook a single detail. While the jareesh, saleeq and kabsa are all perfect winter warmers, make sure you order the maqushoosh for dessert. Sticky with local honey, these moreish teeny tiny pancakes take this traditional dish to the next level. O SAR55. Bujairi Terrace, maiz.sa (92 001 5513). MILLET CAKE Where to order it: Najd Village By far the oldest and most popular restaurant serving Najd cuisine in Riyadh, Najd Village evokes nostalgia as soon as you step through the door. An entire section of the menu is dedicated to ‘Village sweetness’ and every one of these dishes would be perfect on a winter’s day. Try the millet cake, rich with dates and made according to Najd’s secret “We would eat this truffle risotto even when it’s sweltering. But its rich earthy nuttiness is all the better during winter” TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 31TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 3130/11/2024 16:0630/11/2024 16:06WINTER DISHES 32 December 2024 timeoutriyadh.com WARMING DRINKS CINNAMON SPICE DRINK Where to order it: Arco This coffee shop might be famous for its coffee and tiramisu concoctions, but right now, all we want is bucket loads of its new spice drink. A blend of cinnamon and dates mixed with warm milk and topped with whipped cream, it’s the perfect blend of seasonal and local flavours. Top it with a ladyfinger and you’ve got yourself a snack too. O SAR21. Ghirnatah, @arco.sa. CREAMY TIRAMISU LATTE Where to order it: Sigh Give your morning coffee a glow-up with all the flavours of the traditional Italian pudding – espresso, cocoa powder and cookies. If you’re got a sweet tooth, order a portion of the cinnamon and pecan waffles to go with it and thank us later. O SAR22. Shorofat, An Nada, @livelovesigh. SHOTMISU Where to order it: BeFine Coffee This is probably more dessert than drink, but it makes us feel better to pretend it’s just an alternative to our ordinary cappuccino. It is served in a mug after all. Now, if you hadn’t noticed, tiramisu is having a bit of a moment in Riyadh – the city is obsessed with the stuff. So, indulge in these layers of thick, creamy tiramisu with a shot of coffee to cover your daily caffeine intake. O SAR24. Olaya St, As Sahafah, @befine.sa (053 551 0899). recipe, or the afis, a bowl of fried brown bread with butter and dates. O SAR37. Alyasmin, najdvillage.com (92 003 3511). PECAN CHOCOLATE SALTED CARAMEL CAKE Where to order it: Sucre de Nada This home-grown spot has just been named the best place for desserts in Riyadh at Time Out’s recent Restaurant Awards. This cake is one of the reasons why. Light in texture but rich in flavour, it’s got all the flavours we crave this season. There’s nothing like a warm sugary hug on a winter’s day. O SAR39. Al Malqa, @sucredenada. PITA HALAWA TAHINIA Where to order it: Balkan Ćevapi Spanning the likes of Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Macedonia, the rich and comforting cuisine at Balkan Ćevapi makes it one of Time Out’s highly recommended European restaurants. Its variety of pitas, or pies, are all delicious but the pita halawa tahinia is an absolute must-try. The perfect blend of local flavours with the traditional Balkan phyllo dough, there’s a fudgy sweetness rolled into every bite. O SAR44. Alyasmin, @balkancevapi (011 248 9441). SAFFRON CINNAMON TOAST Where to order it: Aseeb Winer of Time Out’s best Saudi restaurant in Riyadh, Aseeb also happens to serve one of the best winter breakfasts. That’s right, the saffron cinnamon toast may look, smell and sound like a dessert, but you also get to eat it when you’ve just rolled out of bed. What a way to start the day. O SAR59. Alyasmin, @aseeb.najd (092 002 8226). Saffron cinnamon toast at Aseeb TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 32TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 3230/11/2024 16:2930/11/2024 16:29WINTER DISHES timeoutriyadh.com December 2024 33 Pecan chocolate salted caramel cake at Sucre de Nada TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 33TOR_EN032_26_33_Winter dishes and drinks_13459417.indd 3330/11/2024 16:2930/11/2024 16:2934 Xxxxxxx 202x timeoutdubai.com DON’T MISS the most exciting events in the Heart of Arabia DECEMBER 2024 VisitSaudi.com/en/winter Riyadh Season Boulevard World A journey through civilisations featuring many cultures such as Saudi Arabia, France, Turkey and Iran. Ongoing starting from 13 Oct Reignited 2 | USYK vs. FURY The highly anticipated Heavyweight World Championship rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will take place at Kingdom Arena – a must-watch fight. 21 Dec Wonder Garden Experience thrills at the magical garden-themed amusement park, where a whimsical gate leads to realms of flamingos, butterflies and trees. 7 Nov - 5 Jan 2025 Ana Arabia Exhibition A unique experience that stimulates creativity and inspires you. Explore new horizons in the world of fashion. 28 Nov - 4 Dec The Groves The Groves returns as a brand new permanent venue, offering an extraordinary and fresh blend of dining, entertainment and lifestyle experiences. Ongoing starting from 20 Nov VIA Riyadh A unique destination that combines world-class dining, high-end shopping, exclusive entertainment experiences and luxurious accommodations. Ongoing starting from 1 Nov Riyadh Zoo Showcasing the first endangered Red Panda in the Middle East at Riyadh Zoo with six expanded sub- zones. 30 Oct- 14 Dec Riyadh SOUNDSTORM 24 A multi-genre festival celebrating music, art and culture with spectacular live performances by regional and global stars. 12 Dec - 14 Dec Noor Riyadh: The World’s Largest Light Art Festival An annual citywide festival celebrating light and art, featuring exhibitions, workshops, talks and performances. 28 Nov - 14 Dec Riyadh Racing Season A one-of-a-kind equestrian experience with 62 thrilling races. 17 Oct - 15 May 2025timeoutdubai.com Xxxxxx 202x 35 #WinterInSaudi XP: Music Futures Conference Three days of musical discovery with innovative talks, transformative workshops and initiatives to energise the region’s music industry. 5 Dec - 7 Dec Comedy Pod An interactive comedy show that brings all the laughs. 3 Oct - 14 Dec Chinese Contemporary Art Exhibition The first Chinese Contemporary Art Exhibition in Saudi showcases 31 artists and 50+ artworks, exploring themes of nostalgia, memory, culture and modern society. 27 Sep - 18 Jan King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival Featuring elite falcon owners from around the world, this festival hosts the largest falcon competition, including beauty contests and races! 28 Nov - 14 Dec Fontana Circus A world-class musical circus that will leave you mesmerised with every performance. 18 Oct - 18 Jan 2025 ImpaQ | Impact Makers Forum Bringing together influencers and digital creators to exchange knowledge, showcase talents and highlight local and global expertise through diverse programs. 18 Dec - 19 Dec Jeddah The Wonder District A vibrant destination with 10 unique zones for all ages, offering global entertainment, creativity, leisure and joyful moments for the entire family. Don’t miss live shows, games and rides. 11 Nov - 11 Dec Next Gen ATP Finals The Next Gen ATP Finals returns to Jeddah, featuring the world’s top eight players aged 21 and under in a fast-paced, innovative format offering a glimpse into tennis’s future. 18 Dec - 22 Dec Sail with Aroya Cruises All aboard. This is the first-ever Arabian cruise line, offering a unique vacation experience that reflects the region’s unmatched hospitality, with an exceptional voyage in the Red Sea. Be part of this historic journey. 16 Dec - 29 May 2025 Red Sea Film Festival A festival dedicated to film-lovers, filmmakers, stars and industry professionals from around the world, showcasing the latest and most exciting films! 4 Dec - 14 Dec The Feast Festival for Saudi Food A celebration of national food heritage that offers unique experiences for visitors. 27 Nov - 6 DecWINTER CAMPING 36 December 2024 timeoutriyadh.com Desert camping Pitch TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 36TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 3630/11/2024 16:1030/11/2024 16:10WINTER CAMPING timeoutriyadh.com December 2024 37 Make this season the one in which you embrace the natural beauty of the great outdoors, with a camping trip to remember. By Louise Charlesworth Make this season the one in which you embrace the tl btf th gttdithi g perfect TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 37TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 3730/11/2024 16:1030/11/2024 16:10WINTER CAMPING 38 December 2024 timeoutriyadh.com P icture the scene: Endless dunes, a golden sunset, good friends and a breeze that justifies that supersoft hoodie. Children roaming freely. Grown-ups laughing. A tent, a barbecue, a campfire surrounded by a circle of chairs. Grilled meats. Toasted marshmallows. Hot chocolate. Stars in the clearest of skies. Few things bring about those warm, fuzzy vibes as instantly as a winter camping trip. It’s a child-like peace that comes from being close to nature and far removed from routine and let’s face it, the unnecessary luxuries and digital demands of the day-to-day. It’s sandy and mucky and sometimes really hard work, but that is all part of the joy. For one night, nothing normal matters – it’s just your crew and the desert. Now, it’s not quite as simple as just heading into the desert and settling in for the night. The very best camping experiences take a fair bit of prep. You’ve got to pick a designated camping area, use the right type of car and go with a group. You’ll need food, water, clothing and cooking kit. And whatever you do, make sure you’ve got a pop-up tent. Just trust us on that one. Here’s your complete guide to what to pack, where to go and how to keep safe. Read it, remember it, then impress your mates as you go all Bear Grylls on them. Or, take them glamping and just enjoy the view. WHERE TO CAMP You’ve got your pick of scenery when it comes to camping in Riyadh. The desert is the obvious one, with endless red sands to explore. If you’ve never perched on the top of a dune, feet buried in the sand, to watch the sunset, it’s time that changed. But there are also rugged mountains you can camp in, often cooler and infinitely less messy, and actually, some green spaces and natural parks as well. And while for many, camping is a tranquil experience, for others, it’s a chance for a taste of adventure. You could plan to camp after a hike, or book an activity like dune bashing, quad biking or rock climbing, depending on the landscape. Some camp sites allow for a focus on nature, from bird watching to fishing, with wadis and lakes to pitch up by. Don’t forget to brush up on your astronomy as well, with stargazing one of the most magical parts of camping. Can you be the first to point out the Plough to your fellow campers? (Top tip: it’s made out of seven stars, that would look a like a sauce pan if joined up. Sort of.) Red Sand Dunes TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 38TOR_EN032_36_45_Feature winter camping_13430397.indd 3830/11/2024 16:1030/11/2024 16:10WINTER CAMPING timeoutriyadh.com December 2024 39 CAMPING STORES Online retailers like Amazon and noon are brilliant for camping supplies, but if you’re a newbie, you may just want to browse a store in person and ask for advice. AL SANIDI TRAVEL SUPPLIES This store offers all the camping supplies you could need from its two branches in Riyadh, including tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment and more. It offers free shipping nation-wide when spending upwards of SAR199. O King Abdulaziz Road, Al Ghadeer, @alsanidisaudi. DECATHLON One of the most popular sports stores in Riyadh, Decathlon offers camping equipment such as sleeping bags, tents and clothing suitable for outdoor trips. You can also pick up fun outdoor toys and games. Frisbee, anyone? O Multiple locations including Al Hamra Mall and The View by Arabian Centres, decathlon.com.sa. EXTRA This famous store has branches in different areas of Riyadh, and provides technical camping supplies such as lamps, portable coolers and electronic devices useful for camping trips. O Multiple locations including Al Suwaidi, Al Warood and Granada, @extrastores (800 124 0900). SACO This one-stop shop has eight branches in Riyadh and stocks all types of camping gear, from tents to cookware and folding chairs. SACO also offers same-day delivery to major Saudi cities. O Multiple locations including King Khalid Street and Al Takhassusi Street, @sacoksa (800 302 0088). SUPPLIES OF AL BARARRI This store offers a wide range of travel and camping supplies such as coolers and cooking equipment. O Southern Ring Road Branch, Al Suwaidi @albrarii (055 270 0303). 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