The restaurant has already been wowing crowds in Jeddah.
Riyadh has no shortage of dining options. From street eats to fine-dining spots, there’s plenty in store. But every now and then, a restaurant arrives with a whole lot of heart – and this time, it’s Abou el Sid.
Abou el Sid is a legendary Egyptian eatery that has made its way from Cairo to Riyadh’s The Esplanade, following successful outposts in Jeddah. And with it, it brings a whole cultural experience rooted in 25 years of culinary tradition.
The decor at the new Riyadh branch captures the essence of a traditional Egyptian household. Think patterned tiled floors, minimalist wooden furniture, and couches in soft turquoise tones. The walls are lined with framed and faded photographs that exude 80s and 90s charm. The space emphasises comfort and familiarity, and with bright lighting and Tanoura performances, it makes for a perfect setting for family dinners and catch-ups.
The menu at Abou el Sid features Egyptian classics. Expect favourites like foul, fried aubergine, chicken liver Alexandrian-style, seafood tajin, Abou el Sid’s roasted duck and the legendary Om Aly, a traditional Egyptian dessert.
The restaurant is a tribute to a man of the same name. Abou el Sid was known in old Cairo for his hospitality and cooking. He often invited people into his humble abode, dishing out plates of Egyptian comfort food. One day, a sultan disguised himself as a peasant. He tried the food and offered him a job at the palace.
Abou el Sid enjoyed cooking for the palace; however, he soon found himself unhappy and requested to be released. This came at the cost of sharing his recipes. The chef refused but eventually escaped to return to his roots. He then hid his secret recipes in a book that was found centuries later and turned into the concept we know today.
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