Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh
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Bianca Bakery & Restaurant has quickly become a go-to for diners in the capital seeking both comfort food and elegant presentation. (Supplied)
Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh
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Bianca Bakery & Restaurant has quickly become a go-to for diners in the capital seeking both comfort food and elegant presentation. (Supplied)
Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh
3 / 3
Bianca Bakery & Restaurant has quickly become a go-to for diners in the capital seeking both comfort food and elegant presentation. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 September 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Bianca Bakery & Restaurant in Riyadh

Combining the charm of a European cafe with the refinement of a fine-dining destination, Bianca Bakery & Restaurant is tucked inside the fashionable Via Riyadh complex.

It has quickly become a go-to for diners in the capital seeking both comfort food and elegant presentation. The restaurant is immaculate, the atmosphere warm and the interior beyond stylish.

The menu is impressive, featuring a wide range of offerings from fresh salads and artisanal pizzas to indulgent desserts and classic pastries.

The Bianca Salad is highly rated for its freshness, while the almond croissant proved a star choice. The pizzas — particularly the Margherita — stood out for their flavor and authentic Italian sauce while the steak, although flavorsome, could have been presented a little better. The tiramisu and cheesecake were both exceptional.

There were some niggles, with slow service during peak hours and main courses arriving before drinks and appetizers.

Bianca also operates a bakery that supplies fresh pastries to other venues across Via Riyadh, but with its fantastic desserts, quality coffee and excellent pizzas, it is well worth a visit — whether for a chic breakfast, casual lunch or refined dinner.
 

 

 

 


Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot
Updated 04 November 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

On the fourth floor of Sana Mall in Batha, a red dragon guards the entrance to International Dragon Hotpot, Riyadh’s new self-service dining spot combining hotpot, Korean barbecue, karaoke, and desserts — all for SR59 ($16).

The place was lively when I visited, filled with the sound of clinking tongs, laughter, and the occasional karaoke performance. The concept — unlimited food, drinks, and music — was too tempting to skip.

The experience starts at the counter, where diners pick from meats, seafood, noodles, and vegetables before choosing a broth to cook at their table.

It is fun and interactive, although the broth was rather plain, needing soy sauce and seasoning to enhance the flavor.

The setup will appeal to Asian diners in Riyadh, especially Filipinos who enjoy this communal dining style. 

The Korean barbecue section offered flavorful marinated beef and chicken — sweet, savory and smoky — although some cuts were a bit tough.

The ice cream station was a highlight: simple, creamy and satisfying.

Service was friendly and helpful, and the bright, cozy space with karaoke rooms added a lively atmosphere. When someone started singing, the energy lifted instantly.

It is a good choice for groups, celebrations, or a casual night out, although there is room for the taste experience to improve.