The pop-up at Mandarin Oriental, Al Faisaliah runs until 26 February.
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.
“Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh perfectly embodies my values and aspirations – consistent with the original L˜ARIA outpost at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como,” said Chef Massimiliano on choosing the location for the pop-up. “This property offers me the opportunity to explore new frontiers in gastronomy.”
Running until 26 February, L˜ARIA occupies the space formally previously by Meraki. With the Faisaliah Tower framing the view, it’s perfectly positioned for diners looking for a refined dining experience. “We have adapted some ingredients to comply with local restrictions, but the essence of the original L˜ARIA restaurant has remained intact, preserving its authenticity and the unique dining experience that defines it,” the chef explained.
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.
Our meal began with a duo of Salmon Aburi and Wagyu Domino Tataki, both flavoured 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. Though the portions were generous for small bites, they were undeniably satisfying.
The Spinach and Avocado Salad was a refreshing surprise. Bright, tangy, and zesty, it broke away from the monotony of standard lettuce-based salads, offering a flavourful punch with every bite. While Prawn Tempura might be a basic choice, but it was executed flawlessly. Each prawn was coated in a feather-light batter and fried to a golden crisp without any hint of greasiness.
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. Although the sauce leaned slightly on the salty side, the pasta’s freshness and the dish’s overall synergy made it a great choice.
Next up, the Seabass was perfectly cooked. With a buttery richness, each bite seemed to dissolve on the palate, leaving behind a subtle sweetness. Meanwhile, the Lamb Chops offered a bold contrast. Seasoned to perfection, the chops were juicy, tender, and bursting with flavour. The subtle hint of spice added complexity, striking a perfect balance without overpowering.
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 at L˜ARIA was impeccable. The staff’s timing was flawless, ensuring each dish arrived at a pace that allowed us to savour every bite. Their attentiveness was subtle yet effective, enhancing the overall experience. “Ongoing training of our staff is prioritised, to guarantee maximum efficiency and preparation, so that we can always provide impeccable service to our guests,” shared the chef.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that blends Italian and Japanese flavours, L˜ARIA Riyadh is a destination not to be missed. With its innovative fusion cuisine, impeccable service, and sophisticated ambience, L˜ARIA is a pop-up that deserves a permanent place in Riyadh’s dining scene.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
