The first time (or likely still 15th) you pull up to The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, don’t be surprised if your jaw hangs open when you set your sights on the fantastical fountains and majestic architecture. But, remember how your jaw works because you’ll want it functioning to taste the dishes at the equally impressive Italian restaurant Azzurro. The glamorous but not intimidating eatery is located next to the indoor pool so you can enjoy the azure waters and opulent décor over lunch or dinner.
Already, Azzurro is not your average Italian and that is further emphasised in a menu that celebrates seasonality and Sardinian dishes, complete with a chef from the Italian island. Yes, there is still plenty of pizza and pasta, but there are dishes many have likely never sampled before, including fans of Italian food. Take the balsamic vinegar pappardelle, malloreddus (a classic Sardinian pasta) or the signature culurgiones ogliastrini: Sardinian ravioli with a vibrant fresh mint, lime zest and butter sauce that needs to be tried.
Like many Italian restaurants, the menu is divided into starters and soups, primi pasta courses and secondi main courses followed by desserts, of course. The portions are just right that you can enjoy a primi and a secondi without feeling you need to walk a few laps around the pool to digest before moving on to another course. (Remember: no swimming right after eating.)
The menu could change with the seasons, but if the popular constine di manzo (slow-cooked short ribs with baby vegetables) is on the menu, order it. Even if you haven’t regained full use of your jaw from staring open-mouthed at the ritzy Ritz, you will have no trouble savouring the fork-tender, boneless meat.
And don’t worry if you cannot roll your r’s and need to point at what to order from the menu. Staff make guests feel welcome. Saudi and Sardinian hospitality are at play here. And they know the menu. If you’re not sure what to get, let them make suggestions. We doubt there is a dish that would disappoint. And you don’t have to stress about an eye-watering bill with most primi around SAR100, sides all at SAR35 and mains around SAR200. The plethora of pizzas also mostly clock in at about SAR100. There are some extravagant splurges like the SAR700 Royal pizza, but at any rate, you can eat very, very well here. If you have a special occasion, this is a sensational Sardinian spot in the heart of the Saudi capital.
