From Istanbul to Riyadh, FLORYA Steak Lounge offers an exciting dining experience characterized by its appetizing flavors, relaxing ambiance, and entertaining service.
While most Turkish restaurants are known for their kebabs and mezzes, brothers Mehmet and Mustafa Dag had heightened dreams for their restaurant: a new generation steakhouse that will infuse modern and traditional Turkish cuisine, highlighting premium meat selections that will be presented in a luxurious setting.
Inspired by the affluent district of Florya in Istanbul, their first restaurant opened in Saudi Arabia in Riyadh’s La Valle Mall, Al Nafal District last 2019. It has fit in well with the meat-loving culture of the city and was even recently shortlisted as one of the Best Steakhouses in Timeout Riyadh Restaurant Awards 2022. Following its growing success, they have opened their second branch at the cosmopolitan plaza of Riyadh Front, north of Riyadh.
Inside their pioneer branch at La Valle Mall is an elegant combination of wood, open windows, and tones of gold and deep violet accented by green verdure. One can view how the drinks are made from their beverage bar, from their distinguished Turkish hot drinks to their selection of non-alcoholic wines. The seating area is vast with private sections for VIP guests who would like to conduct private group gatherings.
Their menu highlights the prime beef and lamb dishes that ought to be tried, including their salads, starters, and desserts. We began with the Florya Special Salad, which felt indulgent with its addition of rich goat cheese to the mix of fresh greens. The “Pink Sultan” appetizer made with beetroot, yogurt, and garlic made an impression with its earthy and savory flavors – perfectly paired with their freshly made Turkish bread.
The arrival of the meat dishes was an entertaining display of talent and service. From the knife skills to the flamboyant play on flames, each dish allowed guests to marvel at its presentation. The oozing mozzarella and cheddar cheese was revealed in the Giant Cheese Kofte, the sword-like knife made an appearance with the Dallas Ribeye Steak, and the falling off of the bone of the Assado Beef showcased its tenderness after being roasted for six hours. It was the Special Florya Fireshow, however, that was a definite showstopper. The thinly sliced Australian Angus beef was tenderized in butter and a quick and blazing fire that made all the diners look in awe. The spectacle was as engaging as the tastes that tantalized with each bite; notably that of the Dallas Ribeye Steak with its herbaceous seasoning, and the tenderness and marbling on the Assado Beef.
After the tremendous meat for dinner, we moved on to dessert. Of course, no Turkish foodfare would be complete without its most famous dessert, the Baklava, which was also served with a melodic chant amidst a fiery flame. The airy pastry and sweetened pistachio filling was paired with a decadent scoop of dondurma. A cup (or two) of their Turkish coffee was just what we needed to cap off the charming evening of Turkish hospitality, making it a memorable dinner overall.
FLORYA Steak Lounge by Etci Mehmet
La Valle Mall, Al Nafal District
Opening hours: 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact. No: 011 446 5511
Riyadh Front, Airport Road.
Opening hours: 2:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Contact. No: 0558606420
Website: https://www.floryasteaklounge.com
Social Media: @floryasteaksa
