Holy (Big) Smoke (Burger)!

Whoops, sorry folks! Where have I been during the past week? I have been very busy with errands but don’t you worry, I do not forget about The Pink Tarha blog. Sometimes I just need a break so I can come up with more words to use in my entries. I can’t help but feel repetitive. Speaking of repetition, here’s another proof that the burger trend in Riyadh is on a repeat button and is not slowing down… the Big Smoke Burger. 

Welcome to your burger dreamland.

Big Smoke Burger is a Toronto-based gourmet burger chain. I have no idea why I initially thought it originated from Jeddah. The branches here in Saudi Arabia are franchised from Canada. Finally, the poutine in their menu makes total sense. What’s a poutine you ask? Well, it’s this: 

One of Canada's most common food

Hand-cut fries with cheese curds and gravy. I’m a bit ignorant of poutine but in Jollibee, I usually dip my fries on their gravy (or the ice cream, depends on my mood) so I’m not so sure what’s special with this. Poutine originated in Quebec, Canada. Someone thought of putting cheese curds on their fries and the sauce was later added to keep the fries warm longer. 

Big Smoke Burger’s poutine is a bit lackluster. I mean, for a Canadian brand, they should do well on this side dish because it’s so common in their country. But the poutine we tried here is bland and didn’t create a good impression on me and my brother (who you all know by now is very picky with his food; he’s a harsh critic I tell you, haha!). I’d rather eat the fries on its own, thank you. 

On our table

I was really excited to try the burger because one of our readers emailed us to tell us that we gotta try Big Smoke Burger because it was newly-opened (maybe 3 months ago) and the line is long. It must be THAT GOOD right?! Big Smoke Burger is known for its handcrafted burger that has a unique smoky, homemade flavor. 

When we went, there was no line but there were a good number of customers taking bites of their orders already. I excitedly chose the Blue Burger; ordering at the counter and eagerly waiting for it in one of their tables. Apart from the ‘always fresh, never frozen’ burger patty made of Ontario AAA beef, my chosen burger has gorgonzola (what is known as the blue cheese ergo “blue burger”, not because it’s colored blue haha), avocado, rosemary garlic mayo, tomato, and lettuce. 

This burger ain't blue

The burger section (I had the tomato removed on my burger).

My heart stopped a bit when I bit into the burger because I was expecting a lot. I am no burger connoisseur but I can say that this burger packs a lot of goodness. The patty is juicy and lean. It’s thick and perfectly-cooked. However, the salty cheese was masking the flavor of the beef and all I was getting is this salty bite from the buttery blue-veined cheese. I was scraping the cheese of my burger much to the chagrin of my brother who ordered the Big Smoke Burger (because according to him, you have to zone on the item in the menu named after the restaurant because it means it’s the best right?). 

Whoah burger!!!

The Big Smoke Burger has caramelized onions, smoked cheddar, tomato, lettuce and horseradish mayo. With his choice, the smokiness of the beef is more pronounced. If it were me, I would have enjoyed it but for him, the burger was overpriced with nothing spectacular or unique that would set it apart from others. Believe me, he tried a lot of burgers in Riyadh already and I am not about to challenge him with his comments. 

The Big Smoke Burger

I agree to his comments to an extent. With the burgeoning burger field in Riyadh, it’s difficult to stand out. Without the WOW factor, patrons would have a hard time to return to a burger shop especially if there are a lot of burger shops to try out there. However, I enjoyed Big Smoke’s burger patty. They can really take pride in high quality ingredients they use in creating theirs. And I heard the onion rings are good too and that you’d be crazy if you don’t try the Crazy Burger and Lamb Burger. 

Order from the counter and wait.

The Big Smoke Burger spot in Tahlia Street is a bit hidden in the construction that is going on in Riyadh’s busiest street. Good thing, its sign and colors of yellow and black are so vivid you’ll easily see it. If not, it’s just across the Al Hilal boutique and beside Criollo. The staff are friendly and the ambiance is quite open and airy with high ceilings. It can get packed at times. ~ Sundrenched

Big Smoke Burger 

Tahlia Street, 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 

W: www.bigsmokeburger.com 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/BSB.KSA

Twitter: @BigSmokeBurger

Ladies, Let's Keep The R Lounge A Secret

Me: Let’s go to Kingdom Mall!
Father: Have you realized that in the years, MANY years, that I’ve been in Saudi Arabia… I have only been there 3 times?
Me: Really? That’s why we’re going. So you can count more times of visiting.
Father: And you? In the 6 years you’ve been here, you’ve visited it for many times?
Me: Uhhhhhh…
Father: And I haven’t been to the Skybridge. 25 years in Saudi Arabia and I haven't been there.
Me: Really? Then let’s go.
Father: And what about the Ladies Floor? What's in there?
Me: And what about the Ladies Floor indeed… 

So we occasionally have our sumbatan moments… especially with my lakwatsas. Hehehe. Nothing life-threatening though. Just being a normal family here. :P

In the numerous visits to Kingdom Center, I haven’t really explored the Ladies Floor. Have you? I just don’t get the point of going there if my favorite brands are located below it. And most of the boutiques have stratospheric prices I obviously cannot afford. *bitter!* As for the freedom to remove my abaya… well, it's fine. There are ladies who enjoy shopping without their abayas but I'm already in love with my abaya I'm too lazy to remove mine and put it back again after a few minutes. Besides, honestly, I only have my pajamas on when shopping. Hahaha! I have nothing against those who enjoy the Ladies Floor though. I mean, Debenhams Ladies Section. ‘Nuff said. ;)

It’s no wonder why it’s the first time I tried R Lounge. I think R was supposed to be “retro.” My friend J and I were famished after attending insightful sessions from the Global Competitive Forum in the Four Seasons Hotel right next door the mall so we looked for something “new.” (The GCF was held last January so yes, I wrote this entry late again.) We decided to try the restaurant in the Ladies Floor after consulting Foursquare. 

A cafe too!

Many ladies seemed to enjoy R Lounge for quick bites. Someone swore the tuna sandwich is heaven-sent. Whoah! But first, this Lucky Accident caused us to stare for a minute. What a paradoxical name for an appetizer. Accidents aren’t supposed to be lucky. Unless when you survive one, then you are blessed. 

Asian flare!

Anyway, I guess this starter was a product of a sudden mix of veggies and chicken. I say, we Filipinos have this accident happen to us a long time ago in the form of… lumpia. They just made into bags and added cilantro. Coolio.

That's healthy-looking!

The combination is good and flavorful. The bags retain their crunch; it’s just a conundrum how to eat this the proper way without spilling its contents all over you. 

Good for your shopping break.

It’s easy to determine what’s inside the tuna sandwich just by looking at it. So we’re curious what made it heaven-sent. I mean, it was delicious but it wasn’t extra-ordinary so don’t expect. 

Aha! I see you ingredients!

It was good because the bread is soft and the corn kernels provided a slight crunch and sweetness from the mix of light tuna and mayo. I did enjoy eating it but I only reached the clouds. Not heaven. Haha!

Looks yum!

The most intriguing would have to be the orange-infused shrimp pasta. I’m sure there’s a more elaborate recipe somewhere but this pasta is creamy with a twist of tang. Okay, so no fireworks when I tasted it but it was a fine, delicate, smooth cream-based pasta. If you want to veer away from the usual carbonara, then go for this. 

A fresh twist.

A good time to visit R Lounge would probably in the morning and in the afternoon. You can still enjoy the punch-colored seats and the steady buzz of the Kingdom’s Ladies Floor. Come night time, it gets packed. The prices are a bit on the expensive side considering the food but you can always share. 

I wouldn't bring these food to my father though because he would complain it's too fancy schmanzy (all the more reason he won't go to Kingdom Center now, haha!). I will however drag him to the Skybridge. He's a Riyadhizen and he hasn't been to the Skybridge? Inexcusable! :P Oh well...

Shopping and dining? That fierce combo is always a pleasure to do in Kingdom Tower. ;) ~ Sundrenched

R Lounge
Ladies Floor, Kingdom Center
Olaya Road, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
FB: https://www.facebook.com/pages/R-Lounge/458791097473863

A 19th Century Burger Lands In Riyadh

Please let me write this one already because I'm kind of excited to write a restaurant feature. I'm properly armed this time around! One of the few things I got myself when I was on vacation in the Philippines is a guide book on the dining scene in Manila. It really wouldn't serve its purpose now that I'm back in Riyadh but I bought it for the hope of gleaning words and style in writing food and restaurant features. Remember when I got sick of using the word "delicious"? Hopefully, I brought with me an arsenal of new words that would describe my next gustatory experience. And here comes one now...

The first adjective that I'm going to use is one of my favorite words too: simple (I know, not the most creative of words). That's the first thing that came into my mind when I went to 19th Century Burger in Tahlia Street. You will only choose from 4 items in the menu! I usually get stumped when I go to the more fancy burger houses in Riyadh but in this joint, you only choose from four... beat that! And two of them are not even the usual burgers: one is their chicken burger and the other is their hotdog sandwich. So basically, two options only: 19th Century Burger and Country Burger. Now, that's simple.

The 19th Century Burger

I naturally went for the signature burger: the 19th Century Burger (SR 27) which has 100% certified beef with Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, white onions, and their super secret 19th Century sauce. There are several add-ons that can be chosen from: bacon, egg, mushroom, more onions, more cheese (in swiss or cheddar), etc. I opted to add an egg and remove the tomato (I am not a fan of tomatoes in my burger). I have the burger sliced into two because I am a prim and proper lady who doesn't just chomp on her big, fat burger without class. Joke. Haha! Of course I attack my burger like a madman especially when hangry (angry at being hungry, haha!). I just find a half of a burger easier to handle. Anyway, so I was really excited to eat my huge burger which is good to share if you're generous and on a diet. 

Not a century old.

It's interesting to note that 19th Century, a Saudi brand, makes its patties every day from scratch. They also bake their own buns. I love food grown made in your own backyard. They're freshly-made. The beef patty is definitely heavy and thick. You'll notice that they made use of the best, high quality ingredients they can get their hands on. However, there's a lack of seasoning. My companion, who has eaten in the place when it opened, had the same observation. They seemed to have held the salt and pepper. Well, as a consolation, you have salt and pepper canisters in your table. And the small tub of sauce, which they call the 19th Century Burger sauce (now that's creative!) that gives a tangy, garlicky flavor to the burger. Don't overdose on it though so it won't overpower the beefy goodness of the patty. 

The Country Burger is not that different from the 19th Century Burger. It just has a thinner, lighter burger patty with two slices of swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, white onion, and 19th Century sauce. It's SR 25 a piece. The Chicken Burger (SR 24) has a whole chicken breast with the usual toppings while their Hotdog sandwich (SR 23) features a classic grilled beef hotdog in between a soft, sliced bun. 

Yummy starters!

All orders come with french fries, which you can switch to potato wedges or onion rings for SR 3. Now, you have to know this beforehand because you might feel offended when your starters land on your paper table mat without so much ado (after all, they say it in the mat itself that something will "land" in there). Yes, they dump the fries and onion rings in your table mat. I was amused. Of course, who needs utensils in eating finger food right? Just pick up and dump in your ketchup! 

These onion rings just landed on my table mat!

You should try their Cheesy Fries (SR 17) too! It's oozing with melted cheese (seemed commercial for me but tasty nonetheless), their sauce, bits of beef bacon, and fried onion rings. Don't worry, it comes in its own plate and doesn't get dumped on your paper mat. Haha! I love this because I am a fan of soggy, tasty fries topped with condiments. The fries retain their crispness after being doused with the sauce for a while so it's still good for those who like their fries with a bite. 

The fries took a sauce bath!

19th Century Burger offers good quality burgers that are easier on the pocket than other specialty burger stores. The restaurant is devoid of too much decoration and is swathed in browns and leather. What is it with burgers being associated with macho men and things associated with them (hello cowboys!)?! You don't think we ladies can take on a burger?! Haha! 

Okay, okay, if you're hankering for burger, try the ones that came from the 19th Century. It doesn't taste old, promise!

Super secret chos sauce!

Oh, btw, don't ask for mayonnaise. ~ Sundrenched

19th Century Burger
Tahlia Street,
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
T: 920033900
W: www.19thCB.com
FB: www.facebook.com/19thCB
Twitter: @19thCB

Burgers Are Fashionable Again

With over a hundred food and restaurant features we have in the blog since 2009, it's been getting harder and harder to write one. I think I have used up all the adjectives in my arsenal of words that are associated with food. You know how many times I've used the word "delicious" in The Pink Tarha? I don't but I know I've written it many times that if I ever read it again in this entry, I'm ready to pull my hair out. Oh, did I just type delicious earlier? Is that another delicious right there? Ugh.

Anyway, let's talk about Burger Boutique now (hoping I have another word for delicious somewhere). It's one of the restaurants in Riyadh I have always wanted to try because of the great reviews. But when I finally decided to try it with my friends, the restaurant closed for renovation. It was a long wait before they opened again last October. It's now in full swing and burger is fashionable once again!

We did not find Burger Boutique immediately because despite of the changes, the sign is still not that prominent. We were even stumped with the b+f? Shouldn't it be b+b or something? (Burgers + Fries ba ito?! :P) The restaurant only opens at 6:00PM. There was a line at the door already when we arrived 10 minutes before the prayer's end amping up our anticipation. If there's a line, the wait must be worth it. Good thing, there's a vacant table available for us and it's not the most surprising thing... there's a huge wooden ball inside the restaurant that separates the first (bachelor section) and second floor (family area). The sofa sets in the middle gets the vote for the best booths. And the spotlights in each table? Hello feeling celebrity! I love the interiors! The only caveat is I couldn't see my food clearly and the dimmed place was lulling me to sleep.

Unique interiors

The starters in Burger Boutique are trending. They're pretty popular with the Foursquare crowd (yes, The Pink Tarha is in Foursquare so please catch up!) We tried the Dynamite Fries, Maple Sticky Buffalo Wings, and Shrimp Inferno. Aren't their names scary? But seriously, they're the bomb!

One of the best special fries dishes in the city.

We emptied the plate in 5 minutes... or more. ;)

The Dynamite Fries (SR 35) came in a pristine white plate and doused with a unique sauce composed of chipotle ranch, house made chili, crumbled bacon, roasted onions, and jalapeños. The sauce was tangy, the fries were soggy, the taste was addicting. We finished off the fries in record-breaking time. (I mean considering we eat slowly because we talk a lot.) 

Zoomed in; they're tiny in real life

These wings are sensational!

The Maple Sticky Buffalo Wings (SR 45) is a sight to behold. It was glistening in its red, fiery glory. However, the chicken wings were a bit too tiny. We know for a fact that Saudi Arabia's chickens aren't that skinny so we wondered where these teeny ones came from. Haha! This became my favorite though. I am a stickler for the sweet, savory, and spicy. Best eaten using your hands. 

A mountain of hay and sauce

We wish you were crunchier.

We gawked at the Shrimp Inferno (SR 55) when it arrived in our table. We didn't want to ruin this masterpiece. There was a mountain of uh... root vegetable hay (according to the menu). We couldn't find the shrimps at first but we figured out they're inside that beehive of stringy, colorful veggies. It was just okay; not worth its price. 

And then came the burgers...

What beautiful burgers!

Burger Boutique has the most expensive burgers I've tried in Riyadh. I got the Bacon Swiss at SR 40 and my friend went for the Dynamite Double Monster (aka DDM) because she likes everything hot and spicy. It's the most expensive in the Signature Burgers menu at SR 60. Their Wood Fire Burgers go over SR 100. There's the B+F Signature with a grass-fed ribeye patty at SR 110 and Wagyu Burger at SR 120. Whoah!

DDM + Bacon Swiss

What I love about these burgers are their buns. They're pillowy soft and buttery and they complement the beefy patties well. Their burger patties are made from prime natural black angus beef, freshly ground daily. It's also said to be organic, healthy, and environment-friendly (also known as the reasons why the burger is expensive). While the burgers are appetizing, they're a bit expensive for their size. You can further customize your burgers (aka zap it!) by choosing low-fat and fat-free ingredients/toppings.

One of the complaints we all had was that their claim of "spicy" is not spicy at all. Even their Firehouse Sauce is not spicy. Even the jalapenos in our burgers. Have you tried it? What do you think? Are our tongues too used to spiciness already that we couldn't taste it? Also, what's with the flat utensils? It's difficult to eat using them, especially the fork.

You're late but you're fine.

We also tried their Porcini and Roasted Chicken Ravioli (SR 60), part of their entrees. Our waiter warned us at first that we might not like it since the herb taste is overwhelming; we ordered it anyway. And waited, waited some more, waited again... we nearly canceled the pasta because it seemed like they've forgotten about it. It came after we threaten to walk out... nah kidding. It came after we bugged the waiter and he apologized for it. 

It has a light sauce but a rich-tasting ravioli. It was delectable. And the herb taste? There was little hint of it so it's a good thing to be a rebel sometimes. Don't listen to your waiters and go for the food you want!

Of course, a meal is not complete without the dessert. We tried the Chocolate Brownie Pudding (SR 50) with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I liked the way they presented it better than its taste.

Gooey chocolatey!

And now, for the highlight of our night in Burger Boutique... the Apple Pie (SR 40). It was, honestly, the best apple pie I have tried in Riyadh. I know I haven't tried a lot of apple pies but seriously, this is delicious ooops exquisite. I couldn't even describe it without salivating over its memory. You have to try a slice! 

I LOVE YOU! <3

Despite the burger in its name, it's not the only food Burger Boutique offers. They have sandwiches, salads, Southern Fried Chicken, and Fillet Mignon. They also have Sliders (mini burgers). Overall, we enjoyed our time in Burger Boutique and if someone would treat us, we'll go back. For now, we leave it for you to visit. We need to refill our wallets first. ;) ~ Sundrenched

Burger Boutique

Mousa Bin Nusair Street,

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

T: +966-11-2161216

FB: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Burger-Boutique/46167317956

Twitter: @BurgerBoutique_

Instagram: @BurgerBoutique

Map:

In the heart of the city!

Directions: 

1. Take King Fahd Road. Go straight until you reach Musa Bin Nusair Street (before you reach Habib). Turn right and make a U-turn on the traffic light. Burger Boutique is in the third building (from Al Nemer) to your right. It's the building with black glass walls.

2. Take Olaya Road (towards Kingdom Center.) When you reach the traffic light near New Look, Splash, Koton, turn left. Burger Boutique is in the third building (from Al Nemer) to your right. 

The Fancy Shmancy Le Chateau

This restaurant we're featuring has some case of an identity crisis. We don't know what their overall theme is because the name is French, the food is Chinese, and the decorations are over-the-top futuristic (like in the movie Tron or something). It's an assault to the senses. Literally and emotionally. Seriously. 

Le Chateau - Cuisine de Luxe Restaurant occupies a building along Takhasussi Street. It's the biggest restaurant in Riyadh! During the day, you won't miss this building because it's colored pink and yellow. Yes, like a box of stained glass in the middle of the city. During the night, it has this flamboyant feel to it; you'll be attracted but you'll also feel the need to stare for minutes gaping and wondering if it's a chandelier and furniture store.

Is there a party inside? 

It's a surprise!

The entrance to the Bachelor section

Trust me, our jaws dropped when we stepped into their lobby where a guest relations officer was telling us they're full. The waiting rooms were very interesting. On the left you have a subtle room filled with white sofas glowing under the pink lights. Being Pink Tarhas, we could've stayed put but we wanted to check out the other waiting room. On the right, you have Madame Butterfly's lair. It was so red, yellow and orange I had to blink a couple of times for my eyes to get used to it. I don't think my eyes got used to it but we stayed anyway because this room has a more energetic vibe than the other one.

Madame Butterfly's lair

We didn't know if we entered a leveled up Timezone or an inter-galactic space ship. The escalators are all aglow with bluish lights and running lights. We were excited boarding the escalator. Haha!

Whoah!

We went up the escalators and entered a massive room where the hustle and bustle of Riyadh converged. Okay, OA, but all the booths seemed so busy, the honeybee structure seemed so apt. People flock Le Chateau because of the family booths that surrounds the restaurant. You have a great view of the streets outside from the glass walls. We chose an open table in the middle to get the overall vibe of the place from the center.

Let's get this party started!

Open kitchen.

The middle section has a bar centerpiece where you can enjoy your drinks, non-alcoholic of course, and the shabu-shabu set which we find new in the city. There's also an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs cook and do their thing. And then there's a room with doors taken from the Forbidden Kingdom in China. And then there are larger than life chess pieces. And a horse covered in mirror I can probably skip the bathroom to fix my hair just by looking at it. And the disco lights in various colors that goes over and over the area. My goodness, what is this place? We couldn't understand the theme really but let's just say it's grand and flamboyant. We were in awe the whole time!

Shining, shimmering! You think I can ride that? Haha!

And the food? Well, if you've eaten in Mirage, Gulf Royale, and Diamond, then you will not be surprised with the menu. They're the same because they came from the same company. So if you have your favorites from those restaurants then chances are, you'll see them here.

Crispy, tasty appetizer and condiments

We started with free crackers and a trip of appetizers. I couldn't help but munch one after the other.

Crunchy outside, soft inside

Our friend J likes the Shrimp Balls, a crispy and oily appetizer that's flavorful. Love it!

Dumplings

Soft and warm, these dumplings are a real comfort food. The wrapper almost sags from the broth inside.

Chicken with cheese kebab, beef teppanyaki, and sweet&sour fish

Our main dishes are delicious; they're the usual food we order from a Chinese restaurant. They all came with a way to keep them warm. The chicken and cheese kebab in a grill was tender. The sizzling beef teppanyaki was sweet and savory doused with the right amount of thick sauce. The sweet and sour fish is just right. All in all, we were happy with our orders. However, they are expensive for Chinese food but we understand that we're also paying for the ambiance. Shabu-shabu sets start from SR 200 up per person.

Chocolate cake

It was Eyecandy's birthday when we visited this restaurant. We ordered this chocolate cake for her. The waiters came out to sing her a birthday song and those around our table were singing along too. Fun! The chocolate cake is interesting; it was mousse-like in consistency.

Cream with fruits and jelly

This came as an accompaniment with the chocolate cake. It's a good diversion in between bites of the chocolatey dessert.

Visit Le Chateau for special celebrations. Better call for reservation because they're always full. Yes, they're the biggest restaurant in Riyadh and they're always full. Wow right? But if you don't mind waiting at the colored waiting rooms, then don't. In Le Chateau, you're going for the fun, vibrant, and impressive place. The food is an afterthought. ~ Sundrenched

Le Chateau - Cuisine de Luxe

Takhasussi Street (near the King Abdullah Road intersection)

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

T: +966-11-480-5352