By Alyaa Malik
While a majority of the restaurant scene can be found mushroomed along Tahlia St. and a bunch more growing further and further away from the city center, an internationally known Italian restaurant found its niche in an unassuming corner along the hi-way of Makkah Road. Welcome to Serafina.
Serafina opened its doors last November 2016 following an expansion of its brand that was originally from Northern Italy. Its bright yellow and ocean blue signage may not immediately register pizzas and pastas to your brain but once you step inside their spacious dining area, the sounds, smell and sights will make it obvious that you are in an Italian restaurant. Be welcomed at the entrance by a display of their gourmet retail store that offers the best cheeses, olive oils, fresh dry pasta and other ingredients imported from Italy. On the side, a classic gelateria gives you a preview of what you can have for dessert even before you get seated on your table.
A casual dining vibe can be found on the ground floor with open-seating and a set of couches in the middle for those who wants to lounge and feel at home. The walls are made of tall windows, which streams the rays of sunlight in at noon and a view of the cruising cars at night. On the second floor lies a more formal arrangement, with an exclusive dining hall for VIP events and another dining area that alights diners with an open kitchen. Their custom-brick oven is found in the midst, where the scent of freshly-made pizza germinates, creating an ambience of anticipation and excitement for the food as it arrives. It is these amenities that make Serafina Riyadh the largest of all its branches in the world, capable of accommodating up to 400 guests in one roof.
Our lunch escapade was composed of their best sellers. The Tartufo Nero (Truffle Pizza) was a personal, unprecedented discovery, rich with the proper marriage of cheeses and black truffles cooked on perfectly thin dough. Its taste is an acquired one, as the pungent truffle oil scent can throw some people off. But for those who will not mind it, a bite into this slice of heaven will invigorate even the most dormant of foodies.
The Italian Burrata Barese served with smoked duck lingered in our mouths with its buttery soft, creamy texture coupled with the sharp taste of the delicately-shaved duck. The accompanying balsamic dressing provided a light, sweet touch to top it all off. Then there’s the crowd-pleaser and Instagram-worthy menu item, the Fettucine Al Parmigiano Fodente, prepared live and hot in front of guests using a wheel of parmesan cheese. Order it for the novelty and for the love of cheese, but if you ask me it can do a tad bit better with a pinch of salt or two. For the carnivore in search of meat and/or fish dishes, fret not as they have an ample list to choose from. I tried the Filet Mignon Alla “Griglia” on medium and found it to be moist and meaty as expected. They also offer options in veal and salmon.
A remarkable dessert should not be missed while at Serafina. Their gelato selection is rich with classic flavors but one stood out amongst the rest: the Spicy Hazelnut ice cream with its ultra smooth texture and a lingering spiciness that’s subtly meek yet memorable. Try their Tiramisu and Date Cake as well to go with their Italian coffee options. Serafina also launched their catering services for those who need to entertain at home or at work. Party trays of their salads, pastas and sandwiches may be ordered ahead of time and picked up prior to an event.
Considering its classy ambiance, delectable dishes and close proximity to the Diplomatic Quarter, Serafina is a convenient retreat for those looking for a fine night out and a swift ride home.
Serafina Riyadh
3831 Makkah Al Mukarramah Branch Road
Umm Al Hammam Al Sharqi,
Riyadh 12721
Contact No.: 011-222-4492
Email: info@serafinariyadh.com
Website: www.serafinariyadh.com
