Centria Mall is one of Riyadh’s most stylish, with high-end stores selling exquisite goods. It is also home to some very upmarket and excellent restaurants.
Stylish Design at Yokari, Riyadh
Yokari is a prime example. A lot of thought (and money) has gone into the design of the interior, and there are some superb creations that are produced in the kitchen.
Place setting at Yokari, Riyadh
There is a departure from the norm of Japanese restaurants in that there is no sushi bar. Yokari is a place where you book your table and that is your base. There is no interaction encouraged with the kitchen. The fillets and cuts are on display, but you have to get up from your table to examine them.
The menu treats everyone like they are an expert in Japanese food. There are no photos or explanations, just the name of the dish and the price. The waiters are happy to explain, but that involves them standing in the gap between tables, which is not very large, so if someone at the next table needs to get up, the waiter has to move, disrupting whatever he is explaining to the table.
There are many options for drinks, but most of them seem not to be available, hence it is wise to follow the waiter’s lead and suggestions. That said, the mojitos, available in a variety of flavours, are excellent.
Mojitos and Karashi Ebi to start with at Yokari, Riyadh
There is the normal selection of fish available for sushi, and they also offer the elusive fatty tuna, which on a good day feels like there is a slice of butter between each section of flesh. Sadly, however, not every day is a good day. The salmon tends to be of excellent quality though.
Salmon and Fatty Tuna sashimi at Yokari, Riyadh
Wagyu Beef with Truffle sushi at Yokari, Riyadh
A unique addition to the sushi is the inclusion of meat. One of their specialities is Wagyu beef with truffle, although the wisdom of offering this with Japanese rice is questionable.
The kitchen has spent time creating a signature selection of maki rolls, and there are some interesting creations. Particularly recommended is the Unagi Saku Saku, which has a variety of seafood surrounded by rice, and is then deep fried so the outside is satisfyingly crispy. The presentation is also excellent, with sauces drizzled over the rolls.
Yakiniku and Unagi Saku Saku at Yokari, Riyadh
There is a good selection of main courses too, and it is recommended to order one or two as a pleasant meaty balance to the sushi that started the meal.
The Experience at Yokari, Riyadh
Yokari is by no means a restaurant of moderate prices. It is perhaps the most expensive Japanese restaurant in Riyadh. It is a place where people come for the food rather than the ambience.
Despite the stylish design, there is little atmosphere, and despite the tables being in close proximity to each other, and overall feeling of privacy is maintained. The chances are that the only interaction diners will have is with themselves and their waiter.
The food is brought to the table promptly, and thankfully not all at once, which creates a sense of build-up through the meal. This is a place where the kitchen is very proud of its creations, and wants guests to enjoy what has been produced.
Do not expect to be able to order platters of sushi, Yokari is a far more of a gourmet experience, somewhere which stands out as opposed to following the regular pattern. It is certainly a delight to the eyes.
The Pink Tarha ladies treated themselves to a birthday dinner at Yokari. Read about it here
How does our experience of Yokari, Riyadh compare to yours? Add your opinion to the comments below.