Piatto
Exit 5, Northern Ring Road
Info & mapWrite a Review
Tel: 01 2006868
visit website
The courtyard dining in Piatto is like something straight out of Italy. It’s open yet covered (good when sandstorms kick in). The sunlight is bountiful and the atmosphere is light and airy. The trickle of water from the fountain, the melodic beats of utensils, and the chatter from nearby tables create an ambiance that is not normally found in Riyadh’s restaurants.
Normally, a vision of mushroom and tomato-topped bruschetta with green salad on my table might put me off. But Piatto’s bruschetta and salad are visions of freshness; crisp, delicate, and topped with luscious cheese and tomatoes. Equaly good was the salmon pasta; al dente farfalle swathed in a pinkish-orange sauce – simply beautiful. As for my dining companions, they enjoyed their chicken drizzled with lemon and grilled salmon mains.
As for Dessert , this was fast and light. A visit to Piatto is not complete if you skip their Gelato, a creamy but very light Italian ice cream. Add creme brulee and tiramisu and you’ll have three pieces of heaven; all in one platter, a tidal wave of sweetness and decadence.
By the time we left Piatto after our hearty lunch, a line has already formed in the waiting area. At such times finding a parking space can be tricky, so arrive early. Although there are cushioned booths in the family section, I can’t recommend dining in the courtyard enough. Prices are a little higher than your usual Italian restaurant, but it’s definitely worth it. I’ll try their pizza next time!
Piatto,
Great Place and Food, everything on the menu was yummy from starters to desserts, you must try the ceme brulee and chocolate, pistachio and strawberry gelato!
After a long wait, I have finally experienced dining at Piatto Ristorante. At first, I was reluctant to have dinner here as they do not accept reservation during Wednesdays and Weekends but thanks to my “insisting” attitude – my wish was granted! We were accommodated and seated in the best location of the restaurant which makes us feel like we are not in Riyadh. The high ceiling makes the atmosphere perfect and looks like we were in an outdoor cozy area. The FOOD – from the salad to the dessert is superb and very affordable. MUST be back here to try their other dishes. Ciao!
This on of the finest resturants I ever tried in Riyadh city. In my opinion this is the first resturant that succeds in finding a comfortable open area in family section. I not only consider Piatto to be a new fabiolus resturant but also a new and unique experience, simply because it somehow takes you in matter of seconds from the heart of the desert to the heart of the old and classy italy. If I was to criticize Piatto resturant. I would only say two things. Far and almost perfect in the italian atmosphere it tries to create but not perfect.
I had wanted to try out this Italian restaurant located on the Northern Ring Road for a long time because of its inviting appearance. What especially sparked my interest was the outdoor area adorned with a large fountain and a lovely terrace. I could not wait to be able to sit outside by the fountain listening to the water flowing. In my mind I had pictured this restaurant as a romantic restaurant for couples. Finding such a pleasant family section area outdoors in Riyadh seemed too good to be true.
To my great disappointment, it was too much to ask for. The outside seating area is not in use for dining. It only serves its purpose as a waiting area for people when the restaurant has closed its doors for prayer times. I had a feeling the”no eating outside” rule might have something to do with the religious cops.
Despite the initial disappointment and my wrong expectations of the venue, our dining experience was very positive. The inside area was equally attractive with a large courtyard and more fountains. There is no music but happy chatter and sounds of children filled the restaurant. This is definitely a restaurant designed for families. There is even a large play area complete with computer games and a ball pit on the second floor of the restaurant.
When we were there with our baby the restaurant was very full and the waiters were busy but nevertheless remained very friendly, considerate and professional. You can choose between sitting in the lovely “Piazza” among the fountains or in one of the more private booths in the family section. There were plenty more tables on the second floor overlooking the Piazza but unfortunately they did not serve to those tables.
For starters we ordered the meatball sliders which any kid would love! These mini burgers were very appetizing and well presented. The restaurant offers a complimentary garden salad and a delicious bread basket. The kids get their own menu which is also an activity booklet they can keep.
The menu has a long list of creative pasta dishes to choose from. I loved the broad pizza menu even more. So many interesting toppings to choose from such as wild mushrooms, smoked salmon, rosemary potatoes, goat cheese and arugula. We ordered their most popular pizza, sundried tomato, pesto and goat cheese pizza.
The pizza was amazing, the crust was thin and crispy and the taste was perfect. Would have ordered another one straight away if we weren’t already bursting from all the different foods we tried! The pastas were delicious, although to my taste a bit too salty. Another positive surprise was how many healthy food choices were on the menu such as the grilled chicken and salmon dishes.
For dessert the restaurant offers a variety of Gelato, Italian ice cream. The only problem was choosing which one to try from all the wonderful flavors! The coffee ice cream was divine and we also tried their crème brulee which was fab and had a very authentic Italian feel to it.
This place has the genuine Italian family-oriented feel and warmth to it. I would highly recommend it for families with small children or for a group of friends.
I have been there a few times. The food is great however the service needs improvement. Also, there is no ability to reserve tables in advance.