Al Falamanki in Riyadh offers a relaxed and authentic Arabic dining experience, with a focus on traditional dishes and a nostalgic ambiance. The restaurant is styled with vintage décor and old-school charm, which adds a nice cultural touch without feeling overly staged. It's a good place for groups or families, thanks to the spacious layout and outdoor seating area.
The menu is quite broad, covering classic mezze, grilled meats, manakish, and desserts. While nothing felt particularly innovative, most dishes were prepared well. The hummus was creamy and flavorful, the grilled kebabs were juicy, and the fresh bread was a highlight. Some items, like the fattoush or fries, felt more ordinary and could benefit from more consistency.
Service is generally courteous, though occasionally a bit slow during peak hours. Prices are reasonable for the setting and portions, though not especially budget-friendly. The restaurant doesn’t try too hard to impress, which works in its favor if you're looking for an unfussy, casual meal.
Overall, Al Falamanki is a solid option if you're craving Arabic comfort food in a laid-back setting. It may not stand out as a culinary destination, but it delivers a decent, enjoyable experience without pretension. It's worth a visit, especially if you appreciate the...
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I had a very disappointing experience at this restaurant. The service was extremely poor from the moment we arrived. The food was placed on the table without being served properly, and the water bottles were just dropped off — we had to open and pour them ourselves. I asked for an extra glass, and it was never brought.
The food itself was cold and tasted very bad. I asked to move to an empty table nearby, and they refused, saying it was reserved. I even offered to move back if the guests arrived, but they still wouldn’t allow it.
When I asked to speak to the manager (Wael), he was incredibly rude and dismissive. I was trying to explain my frustration with the food and service, but he wouldn’t listen. Instead, he raised his voice and argued with me. Only when I mentioned that I’d be writing a review did he suddenly send another waiter to move us to the empty table — but by then, it was too late. His attitude was unprofessional and unacceptable from someone in a managerial role.
The only good part of the experience was the shisha service. Ahmed and the team responsible for the shisha were professional, polite, and attentive. They deserve recognition for their great service — unlike the rest...
Read moreFalamanki offers a nostalgic Lebanese ambiance with a design that speaks to both memory and mood. As an architect, I truly appreciate how the space is curated—from the rustic walls to the greenery-filled courtyards, and the eclectic furniture that recreates the feeling of an old Beirut family home. The use of warm lighting, patterned tiles, and vintage details captures a cultural identity that’s both charming and comforting.
The atmosphere is what stands out most. Whether you’re seated indoors or in the garden-style outdoor space, there’s a serene energy that invites you to relax and linger. It’s a perfect spot for slow evenings and long conversations.
Now, about the food—it’s not bad, but it doesn’t quite reach that “wow” level. The dishes are presented nicely and the menu includes all the classics from Fatteh to Mixed Grill, but the flavors could use more depth and balance. It’s good for casual dining, but if you’re going purely for a culinary experience, you might leave wanting more.
That said, the service is friendly, and the overall experience is enjoyable thanks to the ambiance. Falamanki is more about the vibe than the plate—and sometimes, that’s exactly...
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