The restaurant brings the world’s most expensive beef to Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia’s restaurant scene is booming, and Riyadh is quickly emerging as the region’s premier destination for fine dining. While the capital’s hunger for world-class culinary experiences continues to grow, Hocho has landed, bringing the world’s most expensive Kobe beef to carnivores in the capital.
Located in Via Riyadh, Hocho blends Japanese influences with the spirit of the Silk Road. Here, minimalism meets luxury, inviting diners to experience the finest Japanese beef in a warm, intimate setting that doesn’t demand attention but lets the food do the talking.
The interiors are warm and moody, wrapped in shades of brown, beige, and maroon. It’s a softly lit space with wooden ceilings, crystal fixtures, and Japanese-inspired details that complement the cuisine. There are plush grey chairs, wooden tables, and a mix of textures. The outdoor space features similar seating for those who prefer to dine alfresco.
While the decor leans on the elegant side, there’s still a loungey feel to the setup. There’s also an open kitchen, allowing diners to sneak a peek at the care that goes into each dish. Elsewhere, the Rubi Room is an exclusive private dining area designed for those seeking a more intimate setting, offering an omakase experience.
We found our seat near the restaurant’s door and kicked things off with the Veggie Rolls. These rolls were anything but basic. They were wrapped in delicate, almost translucent rice paper and were flavour-packed. Generously filled with crunchy vegetables, each bite was fresh and fulfilling. The side of peanut dipping sauce brought creaminess, umami depth, and a hint of sweetness that elevated the dish beyond being just a typical starter.
Next came the Salmon Carpaccio, which was perfectly sliced. This was paper-thin, and the zesty, tangy dressing paired beautifully with the silky salmon. The pomegranate on top added sweetness and texture to the palate.
Following that came the Beef Carpaccio, which gave us our first taste of what Hocho does with premium beef. It was delicate yet bold and smoked just enough to deepen the flavour. It seasoned well, enhancing rather than overpowering the meat’s taste, and was so tender that it practically dissolved on the tongue.
The Crispy California Maki was another pleasing dish. With crunchy toppings and a generous filling, it had all the makings of comfort sushi. It came served with a colourful slaw on top, adding texture and freshness.
Curious to see how Hocho handles non-beef dishes, we sampled the Chicken Katsu. It was simple, offering golden-fried chicken that was tender on the inside, served with a side of sauce. While it wasn’t the most memorable dish, it offered a solid choice if you’re looking to mix things up.
And now, the moment we were waiting for, the Kobe steak. With prices starting at SAR 945, expectations were sky-high. And thankfully, it delivered. On the outside, it offered a smoky char flavour and texture, while the inside stayed juicy and tender. Served with a side of golden fries, it was indulgent and satisfying.
Hocho might be the only restaurant in Riyadh serving premium Kobe beef, but it’s not gloating about it. Instead, it’s elevating the entire experience. The service is attentive without being overbearing, and the food is thoughtfully prepared with a clear focus on premium quality.
So, if you love Japanese cuisine or are curious to try the world’s most coveted beef, Hocho is an excellent addition to Riyadh’s evolving dining landscape.
GO: Visit https://hocho.info for more information.