Where We Are Going Today: Chopped in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Chopped in Riyadh
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Chopped: a sanctuary for meat, a world away from the clamor of a typical market. (Supplied)
Where We Are Going Today: Chopped in Riyadh
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Behind the global sophistication lies a deeply local pride. Chopped is a Saudi-grown brand. (Supplied)
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Updated 31 October 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Chopped in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: Chopped in Riyadh
  • The true magic of Chopped may lie in its mastery of the underrated

The first thing you notice upon entering Chopped is the quiet. This is a sanctuary for meat, a world away from the clamor of a typical market. The air is cool and carries the clean, serious scent of premium, chilled beef. Your eyes are drawn to the gleaming cabinets, illuminated like museum displays for the world’s finest proteins.

To the right, the deep, ruby-red of a New Zealand striploin promises robust flavor. Further along, the spectacular marbling of an Australian ribeye looks like a frosty landscape, guaranteeing unparalleled richness and tenderness.

It is a display designed for the connoisseur who seeks both quality and a compelling origin, for the best value for money.




Behind the global sophistication lies a deeply local pride. Chopped is a Saudi-grown brand. (Supplied)

Zaid Al-Ahmad, managing director of Chopped, explains that this meticulous curation is for a specific clientele. “Our customer isn’t just shopping for dinner; they are investing in an experience,” he says. “They appreciate the narrative — the grassy pastures of New Zealand in our striploin, the rigorous grading of our Australian Wagyu. They value this story as much as the product itself.”

But the true magic of Chopped may lie in its mastery of the underrated. Alongside the celebrated steaks, you will find the chuck roll and flat iron. The chuck roll, a versatile cut often overlooked, is presented here as a jewel for slow-cooking, its potential for melting tenderness fully explained. The flat iron, a majestic centerpiece, commands attention with its impressive marbling and rich flavor.

Just beyond the meat display, a curated cheese counter extends the same philosophy of excellence. Each wheel and wedge tells a story — from aged Parmigiano Reggiano and creamy French Brie to bold English cheddars and delicate goat cheeses from Europe’s green pastures. This thoughtful selection is not simply about indulgence but about harmony — pairings that elevate Chopped’s premium meats into complete culinary experiences. It is, as Al-Ahmad describes, “the finishing note that transforms quality into craftsmanship.”




Behind the global sophistication lies a deeply local pride. Chopped is a Saudi-grown brand. (Supplied)

He believes this educated approach defines modern luxury. “By offering everything from the exquisite ribeye to the wonderfully adaptable chuck roll, we provide a thoughtful edit of the world’s best at the best value.” Yet behind the global sophistication lies a deeply local pride. “Chopped is a Saudi-grown brand,” Al-Ahmad emphasizes. “We are immensely proud of that. Our goal has always been to bring the best of the world to the Saudi customer — to offer quality and storytelling that meet the standards of our market and reflect its growing appreciation for excellence.

“We make these global flavors accessible, and that is what transforms a simple purchase into a cherished culinary event,” Al-Ahmad concluded.

For more information check their Instagram: @choppedksa.
 


Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot
Updated 04 November 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

Where We Are Going Today: International Dragon Hotpot

On the fourth floor of Sana Mall in Batha, a red dragon guards the entrance to International Dragon Hotpot, Riyadh’s new self-service dining spot combining hotpot, Korean barbecue, karaoke, and desserts — all for SR59 ($16).

The place was lively when I visited, filled with the sound of clinking tongs, laughter, and the occasional karaoke performance. The concept — unlimited food, drinks, and music — was too tempting to skip.

The experience starts at the counter, where diners pick from meats, seafood, noodles, and vegetables before choosing a broth to cook at their table.

It is fun and interactive, although the broth was rather plain, needing soy sauce and seasoning to enhance the flavor.

The setup will appeal to Asian diners in Riyadh, especially Filipinos who enjoy this communal dining style. 

The Korean barbecue section offered flavorful marinated beef and chicken — sweet, savory and smoky — although some cuts were a bit tough.

The ice cream station was a highlight: simple, creamy and satisfying.

Service was friendly and helpful, and the bright, cozy space with karaoke rooms added a lively atmosphere. When someone started singing, the energy lifted instantly.

It is a good choice for groups, celebrations, or a casual night out, although there is room for the taste experience to improve.