ROKA Riyadh — Restaurant in Municipality of Olaya

Our experience at this restaurant was a mix of positives and major disappointments. The hostess was exceptionally kind, welcoming, and professional, setting a great first impression. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the waiter assigned to our table.

From the beginning, he seemed rushed, impatient, and visibly irritated with us. When we ordered the set menu (priced at over 200 SAR), he failed to clarify that ordering two would not result in two full portions but rather one full. This lack of communication led to confusion, which could have been easily avoided with a simple explanation.

The situation worsened when we requested to have our leftovers packed to go. Instead of handling the food with care, the waiter carelessly threw everything—including a 200 SAR black cod, a 90 SAR salmon dish, and a sandwich with truffle mashed potatoes—into a single container with no regard for separation or presentation. This level of disregard for both the quality of the food and the customer experience was completely unacceptable. And when we asked him about it the solution was using the same container with no difference.

Additionally, when we asked if the DJ could play Arabic music, given that both we and the DJ were Arabic and we were dining in Saudi Arabia, we were met with a blunt refusal. The response was that Arabic music did not align with the “international restaurant standards” and that they were unwilling to adjust. This explanation was both dismissive and contradictory—especially considering that the restaurant was already playing French and American music despite being a Japanese establishment. If adherence to a theme was truly a priority, then why not play Japanese music?

Saudi Arabia is a country of rich culture, pride, and hospitality. Businesses operating here should recognize and respect that. While we appreciate high standards in the hospitality industry, those standards should include both cultural awareness and customer respect. We hope the management takes this feedback seriously and implements necessary improvements.

A special thank you to salman for making our night nice with...

Roka Restaurant in Riyadh is a culinary gem that combines Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist, offering an exceptional dining experience.

From the moment you step into the restaurant, you're enveloped in an ambiance that seamlessly blends modern design with traditional Japanese elements. The décor is chic, and the seating arrangements provide an intimate and cozy atmosphere.

The star of the show at Roka is undoubtedly the cuisine. The menu is a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring a wide array of sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with freshness and flavor. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or new to Japanese cuisine, Roka's offerings are sure to impress.

The staff at Roka Restaurant are attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing your dining experience. They are happy to guide you through the menu, recommend dishes, and ensure that every aspect of your visit is memorable.

In addition to its outstanding cuisine, Roka also boasts an impressive beverage selection, including an array of sake and signature cocktails that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes.

Overall, Roka Restaurant in Riyadh is a culinary gem that successfully marries the elegance of Japanese cuisine with contemporary design. It's an excellent choice for special occasions, business dinners, or anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in the heart of Riyadh.

Rating: 4.7/5 - Roka Restaurant in Riyadh offers a fusion of Japanese flavors in a stylish setting, with exceptional cuisine, knowledgeable staff, and a diverse beverage menu. It's a top choice for those looking to savor the best of Japanese...

Roka

Before I talk about location and staff and interior or even food .

Will thank our amazing waiter EDWIN for making our experience wonderful .

It was a very special night .. with lot of great fine food .

Location : at the fine street where most of the fine dining restaurants locate .. valet parking available .

It looks great from outside and inside

Interior : great with very nice ambiance .

Staff : just amazing staff , from reciption to waiters and food shefs .

Food : I give our waiter a full chance to surprise us , we got many items to try and it was just perfect .

Starting from yellow tail sald that was 10/10 To deluxe sashimi platter and it was wow 10/10 .

Salmon tartar was great 10/10 .

Spicy adamami 10/10

Salmon roll 10/10

Seabas filet 10/10

Beef filet 10/10 and I would say 20/10 it was just great .

Salmon sushi 🍣 10/10

Dessert platter ... The Crunchy banana ice cream puff was one of kinde and must try .

Ice cream was refreshing and great .

Drinks were from another world , I tried three of their cocktails and they were all great .

Do I recommend this place ?

If not this place then no other .

100 I recommend it .

Will I come again ?

If I can come every day I...