Ritaj Restaurant — Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

This has to be one of the most disappointing restaurant experiences I've EVER had, not just in the UAE, but anywhere. The management clearly needs to prioritize customer retention and train their staff on basic service etiquette.

The problems started immediately. My initial call to place a delivery order was met with a hang-up. Upon calling back, the person who answered was incredibly rude. Despite calmly placing my order, I was then told I had to pick it up myself because they don't deliver single biryani orders, even though I live practically next door – a one-minute walk! I was forced to add more items just to get delivery.

Then, the delivery itself was a nightmare. After an hour and 35 minutes, the driver started giving me missed calls. When I asked why he didn't just call, he had the audacity to say, "You're not paying for my mobile credit, so why should I use it?" And delivery guy wants me to come down and get the food, so After I had increased the order amount to get home delivery in the first place! Then why do I have to still come and get it by myself, I explained that I couldn't leave my baby alone, and the delivery guy told me to come down or else collect it from the restaurant.

Anyway I went down to pick up the food, only to discover they ONLY accept cash on delivery. Who carries cash these days? After going to get cash and returning, the delivery driver was gone! I called him and He said he had other work to do.

Calling the branch to complain was useless. The SAME rude manager answered and said he didn't have time to listen and that their drivers were busy. He told me to come to the restaurant or else they can’t send back the delivery, despite living right behind it.

Eventually, they sent the order again with other delivery guy, and the driver repeated the missed call routine. When I went down to pay my 58 AED bill with a 100 AED note, he said I should pay him with only exact bill amount because they don't carry enough cash. I called the restaurant the manager answered the call and this is what he had to say "You should pay with the exact amount; our delivery guys sometimes don't have change." Unbelievable!

When I asked to speak to someone in higher management, the manager said even the owner would tell you the same thing.

The whole ordeal started at 12:15 PM, and it's now 3:56 PM, and the drama continues.

The entire experience, from the rude manager to the unprofessional delivery staff, has been incredibly frustrating. This isn't the first issue I've had with their staff, but it's definitely the worst delivery experience.

I truly wonder if the owner ever reads these reviews and if they even care about their customers. I would strongly advise ordering from...

Ritaj Restaurant Management,

I’m express my deep disappointment with the service and food quality I recently experienced from your restaurant.

On [23/05/2024], I ordered a special family pack of Chicken 65 from your establishment. Unfortunately, the rice that accompanied the dish was not properly boiled or steamed, resulting in an inedible meal. We had no choice but to throw the rice away due to its very poor taste and texture.

Additionally, the delivery process was highly unsatisfactory. Despite being told that the food would be delivered within 45 minutes, the delivery was delayed because the delivery driver was sent to the wrong location. When I called to inquire about the delay, I spoke with an employee named Haider, who was extremely rude and unhelpful. He simply told me to wait for the driver to correct his route and then ended the call.

This kind of service is unacceptable and reflects poorly on your restaurant. I expect a higher standard of both food quality and customer service.

I would appreciate it if you could look into this matter and take the necessary steps to prevent such issues in the future. Additionally, I request a refund for this order, as the meal was not consumable, and the delivery experience was highly frustrating. I have taken pictures as well to complaint.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your...

experience—a harmonious blend of spices, rice, and meat that captivates the senses from the first whiff to the last bite. The moment the lid is lifted, the aroma of saffron, cardamom, and tender meat wafts through the air, immediately transporting you to a world of rich, intricate flavors.

The rice is perfectly cooked, each grain standing separate yet infused with the essence of the spices. What makes a great biryani is the balance—no single spice overpowers the other, allowing the delicate flavors of cumin, cinema b of meat (whether chicken, lamb, or beef) are marinated and slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing the marinade’s depth while maintaining their juiciness.

Accompanied by a side of raita (a cool yogurt-based condiment) or a squeeze of fresh lemon, the biryani reaches new heights, offering a contrast of coolness and acidity that complements the warmth and richness of the dish.

In essence, a well-prepared biryani is a testament to culinary mastery, where every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is as complex as it is comforting. Whether enjoyed in a high-end restaurant or as a home-cooked family recipe, biryani remains a timeless favorite that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to savor it.

If you have any specific type of biryani in mind (like Hyderabadi, Kolkata, or Lucknowi), I can tailor the...