Ovun Bistro اوفن بيسترو — Restaurant in Municipality of Olaya

Clatter: pots, pans, alarms, machines, phones... I don't know where it's coming from. It set off those in our party with auditory intolerance... something was amiss with the setting. There's barely music, low enough to not be noticeable but loud enough to cause a clawing irritating annoyance in the bg. We like loud buzzing bistros but this wasn't that.

We were there for supper. At about 6 to be exact. A bit early, so we expected a low hum and seating. We ordered the mama ghanouj which was unique but not impressive and a bunch of other things. I am convinced it's the quality of ingredients in Riyadh. These simple dishes would have been elevated by the freshness of the ingredients in Lebanon or elsewhere. Unfortunately, this is not the case here, so i am surprised to hear a repeated statement claiming Ovun as the best Lebanese restaurant in the city. Nope. Not for me.

The salads were overly sour. So were some of the stuffing for the pastries. The only thing we were able to palate were the cheese rukakat.

We also sat for another 35 mins stupidly waiting for a main order that wasn't even placed! No one asked us no one checked in... Service was trying to say the least. Each time we had to wave, shake, dance, call, or otherwise animate ourselves to get attention. Like I said it wasn't busy but most of the attention was on the opposite side of the joint. Anyway, we finally asked about the mains, and the waiter said if it isn't in your ebill, I didn't place it. Politely, we paid and exited. I do not recommend nor will I return...

If you’re looking for an authentic Lebanese dining experience with exceptional food, ambiance, and service, look no further than Ovun bistro . From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends modern elegance with traditional Lebanese charm.

The menu is a celebration of Lebanon’s rich culinary heritage, featuring everything from freshly made hummus and smoky baba ghanoush to perfectly grilled kebabs and fragrant rice dishes. Each dish bursts with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients, showcasing the true essence of Lebanese cuisine. The mezze selection is a must-try, offering a variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing.

Beyond the incredible food, the ambiance is equally impressive. Whether you’re dining indoors in a beautifully decorated space or enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor terrace, the setting enhances the overall experience. Soft Middle Eastern music and warm lighting create a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer.

The service at OVUN Bistro is impeccable—attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. The staff takes the time to explain the menu and offer recommendations, ensuring that every guest has a memorable dining experience.

Overall,OVUN Bistro delivers on all fronts: outstanding food, a delightful atmosphere, and top-notch service. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or a family meal, this place is a must-visit for anyone who loves Lebanese cuisine. Highly...

This newly opened restaurant specializes in Lebanese cuisine and has a warm, earthy decor that creates a welcoming atmosphere. Despite not having a reservation, we were seated quite quickly, which was a positive start. Our overall dining experience, however, was not entirely satisfying. We ordered a selection of starters, including shanklish salad, mama ghannouj, beetroot salad, loubieh bzeit, black hummus, and French fries. The meal began with a basket of freshly baked bread, but unfortunately, it had a slightly sweet taste and a noticeable hint of milk, which felt out of place for traditional Lebanese bread. When ordering, we specifically asked the waiter whether the fries were made from fresh-cut potatoes, and he assured us they were. However, when they arrived, it was clear they were frozen, which was disappointing. The shanklish salad also fell short of expectations, as the flavor did not resemble authentic shanklish. On a more positive note, the mama ghannouj, made from cauliflower, was the highlight of our meal, offering a unique and enjoyable taste. The loubieh bzeit was also well-prepared and flavorful. To end the meal, we ordered the Umm Ali for dessert, which was served warm and had a deliciously comforting taste. Overall, while the restaurant has potential, it could benefit from some fine-tuning, especially in terms of food authenticity and consistency. A second visit might be worthwhile to explore their main dishes and see if improvements...