The Copper Chandni, Riyadh cannot be approached without a comment on its design. It is an impressive reproduction of a Mughal-style palace tastefully created so that it suggests an authentic experience once inside.
The Copper Chandni, Riyadh
Mughal Design Elements
Waiting area at The Copper Chandni, Riyadh
On entering, the theme is continued, with attractive wooden furniture, decorative arches, solid tables, stylish alcoves, and intimate dining booths, which ensure privacy for your party, although not sound-proofing.
Private dining booth at The Copper Chandni, Riyadh
The experience could be improved if there was a call button for the waiters, but as things are, diners either have to wait for them to come and check, or to take the initiative and venture outside the booth.
DIning booth at The Copper Chandni, Riyadh
Are Appearances Deceiving?
Zaffrani Sherbert at Copper Chandni, Riyadh
Starting with drinks, it is unusual that sparkling water is not available, and this may be an attempt to direct guests to the blended drinks on offer. The Zaffrani Sherbert is an excellent choice.
The best way to start an Indian feast is with papadums, and a feature of Copper Chandni, Riyadh, is that they come in snack sized pieces, removing the necessity to break whole papadums into smaller bites. The three sauces that accompany them are subtle in flavour, and won’t overpower your senses, although it is a shame there is no chutney on the premises.
Papadums, mixed starters and naan at the Copper Chandni, Riyadh
The mixed starters is a good way to experience several options (chicken, meat and cheese balls) although why they are accompanied by hummus is a mystery.
Naan, Chicken Tandoori and Dal Ma Chandni at the Copper Chandni, Riyadh
Also recommended, the chicken tandoori and tikka pieces are well cooked and succulent, as are the rawa prawns.
Chicken Tikka at the Copper Chandni, Riyadh
There are good bread options available, and both the naan and the paretha are well made and of good consistency – not too doughy.
The Curries
A wide selection of available curries and grills are available, and it is worthwhile asking the waiter for recommendations. The best way forward is to decide the main ingredient – chicken, mutton, prawn, fish or vegetables – and to decide on the curry accordingly.
Presented in individual bowls, the curries sit atop aflame that ensures they stay warm during the meal. The curry sauces are thick, tasty and well made, with no sign of excess oil floating on the surface.
As delicious as the prawn curries are, and as appealing as they look it is a shame that the prawns themselves seem to fall into the category of shrimps, a little too small to relish.
Prawns Masala at the Copper Chandni, Riyadh
Biriyanee rice at the Copper Chandni, Riyadh
For all the choices of rice dishes, it is surprising that there is no pulau rice available.
Our Opinion...
The Copper Chandni, Riyadh, overall, is a place that serves good food in very pleasant surroundings. Despite some staples which are missing from the menu, there is enough choice to make sure that guests have a very enjoyable experience. But be warned, it is by no means the best value Indian restaurant in Riyadh.
There are several Copper Chandni restaurants in Saudi Arabia. For further details, click here
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