House Hunting in Riyadh: Things To Check Before Signing That Lease Contract

Okay, so we've been combing Riyadh for the rental home of our dreams and we think we found, The One. Okay, reality check. Probably not our dream home, but at least a comfortable place to live in here in Riyadh. But before we jumped in and signed the contract, we had to make sure that everything was going to be acceptable by turnover. After all who doesn't want to come home to a nice and cozy place, right? 

We've compiled a list of things you might want to consider when choosing your new home. Some of these may be self-explanatory but sometimes we get carried away by how the flat looks and we overlook the important things. Ready? Let's get crackin'!

Phone/Internet 

Hubby and I both depend on our computers for work. Suffice it to say that we cannot survive without internet access. Hubby had to make sure that our new flat could be fitted with an STC line and installed with an internet line or a fiber optic cable. In case, you know, we'll need 40mbps of internet at home. LOL.

Anyway, he called STC and they asked if the building already had an "STC Cabinet". Look for a metal STC sign around the building wall. If the building doesn't have an STC cabinet it will take longer for you to get a line. Ours took only 2 days to install because it was already STC-ready. Also if you plan to upgrade to a fiber optic line, check for the letters "FTTH" on the second row.

Water Pressure

The flat we found was nice to look at but when hubby came back to check, it turns out that the tap's water pressure was really low. So we asked to building owner to repair it first. Trickling water is a deal breaker if you live three floors up.

Cracks on the Wall or Ceiling Damages

When a building is new, sometimes it needs to "settle" first. This is very common for places that experience extreme temperatures as it causes the building materials to expand and contract before finally setting in. If it's just hair line cracks, that's normal and easy to repair. But if these are wide cracks that re-crack after repair, it may indicate structural issues with the building. You have to take note of these because you might be held responsible for damages when the time comes to move out.

Painting

Are you allowed to paint the wall? Do you really need to paint the wall? If you do, be prepared to work on it over the entire weekend. Do this at least a week before you move your things in as some paint smell can be really harsh. Talk to paint sellers to determine the right kind of paint for your needs and lifestyle. 

Air Conditioning

Some buildings are built with big rectangular holes ready for window type A/C installation. But some flats are built with split-type A/Cs in mind, in which case there are small built-in holes ready. Most of the time you won't have a choice in this matter and you won't be allowed to tear down the wall, so take note of this and weigh in your options. Split A/Cs are much more expensive than window-type A/Cs and hiring someone to install these units will set you back around 200-300 SAR/per A/C unit.

Kitchen

Is the flat outfitted with a built-in kitchen? That's great! If not, buying second hand kitchen cabinets at Haraj would cost around 1000 SAR plus installation charges. New kitchen cabinets costs around 1700 SAR - 3000 SAR including installation. The price depends on the kitchen measurements and you can customize the cabinets to suit your needs. You can also choose the colors of marble counter top and choose between an aluminum metal sink or a marble sink. You might also chance upon expats selling their kitchen cabinets but you'll have to find your own carpenter/plumber to install it. IKEA kitchens cabinets are beautiful but they also cost much more. But if you can splurge, why not. Hehehe. You can check out their website here: http://www.ikea.com/sa/en/

One of the dainty kitchens we found on our house hunting escapades

Tiled or Carpeted

Some units are fitted with beautiful tiles and this allows you to go carpet-free. Carpets on the other hand are good insulation and can maintain the room's temperature during Riyadh's harsh winter. Should you decide to install carpets it will set you back anywhere from 15 SAR to 100 SAR per square meter, depending on the quality. 

Electric and Water Bills

Check if the flat has its own electric and water meters. Some buildings do not have individual meters and you might end up splitting the electricity bill with 2 or more flats. Are you going to be comfortable with that? Different areas and buildings also charge differently. Don't forget to check if all the rooms have enough electric outlets.

Location

Is the neighborhood safe? Are there enough parking spaces? Is the building close to a bakala or grocer that sells drinking water and other stuff you might need? How close do you need to be to a Mosque?

The Contract

If you're ready to take the plunge, check the contract first before paying the Aqari Fee, as this fee is usually non-refundable and will cost around 500-1000 SAR. The contract will usually state who will be responsible for repairs so make sure that any problem/solution will be discussed before you sign the contract. Some building owners do not offer maintenance service and you'll have to shoulder the cost of repairs, so you have to make sure that everything is in tiptop shape prior to move in.

Tips 

It's much better if you look for a house with your spouse because you'll be able to decide right away whether a flat is acceptable or not. However, make sure that you are on the same page with what you expect to rent, your budget and what you can compromise. Also, if you really like a flat don't wait too long because it might not be available the next time you come back. Don't forget to bring water as you'll be in and out of your car a lot while you scout for flats.

While house hunting and choosing a flat can be tedious and time consuming, don't be deterred. Try to make it an enjoyable experience by brainstorming, daydreaming and planning with your spouse. Try to be creative together. If your wife's not in the Kingdom yet, take videos and photos of the flats you scout and show it to her online.  Keyword here is Together.

The trend of finding your home online is becoming more and more popular in Saudi. Websites like Lamudi and ERA are for those of us interested in renting or buying apartments, villas, lands, office space or even a piece of land. Results will show photos of the properties and other contact details of the seller. Oh and they have listings in both Arabic and English, so locals and expats can use them. It`s a good way to check your options before getting in the car and start running around from a place to another without having a clue about the property you're visiting.

Good Luck and Happy Hunting!

Sampaguita Pride

Scented Senses of Verger De France

Did you know that women have a keener sense of smell than men? It’s a scientific fact. Interestingly enough though, the founders of cosmetics and perfume company, Zohoor Al Reef were actually, two brothers! How fascinating. :) Now a household name all over Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, Zohoor Al Reef recently launched a new line of body care and fragrances called Vergers de France (translates to “Orchards of France”). We were fortunate enough to be one of the invited guests for the exclusive launching event of Vergers de France at the Four Seasons Hotel, which excited everyone with an “augmented reality” presentation. I was surely intrigued as to what this was so off we went. 

Upon entering the hall, we were greeted by its hosts, Ms. Soumaya, Ms. Sabina and Ms. May Kanounji who were very cordial and hospitable throughout the entire event. Their newest products were displayed in the foyer, in true French fashion with the pastel colors of lavender, peach and pink.  Sundrenched and I ushered towards the fragrances to whiff at which ones we’d like best. 

The line, “Vergers de France” is aimed to entice the sweet, passionate and romantic woman in you, inspired the many streets of Paris (according to Ms. May). I found most of the scents delicate and fruity and figured that these kinds of scents (even the packaging) are probably targeted for young ladies. You can choose amongst the seven fragrances, namely: Strawberry & Rose, Cotton Powder, Secret Garden, Verbena & Lemon, Grapefruit & Peach, Oriental Twist and Berries & Cream (at 89SR each for Eau de Parfum). 

I particularly liked the Verbena & Lemon scent, thinking that it was a good after-beach scent. I'm buying the whole bodycare line of this one for sure! ;) 

Sundrenched liked the Grapefruit & Peach because it was light and refreshing, like a breezy day.

I tested the other fragrances and found the Cotton Powder smelled like something I would want to hug (if that makes sense, haha!) while the Secret Garden scent had a vanilla base, if I’m not mistaken. 

Strawberry & Rose were a bit on the sweet, indulgent side while the Oriental Twist was the ‘deepest’ of all the scents I’ve smelled. 

I wasn’t able to test the Berries & Cream but I’m hoping it makes me smell like cheesecake. (I’m kidding!)

After having gone through all the scents (they are also available as body butter, body splash, shower creams, hand lotions, talcum powders etc), we finally went inside the function hall for the presentations. We were seated at a beautifully arranged table, adorned with the theme colors of the night. Ms. May Kanounji,  the Marketing Director for Zohoor Al Reef, read the description of the Vergers de France line both in Arabic and English. Then she, along with Ms. Sabina, proceeded to present the two interesting merchandising methods that Zohoor Al Reef will especially be using for the Vergers de France line. It was truly a surprise for our senses! 

The first was the “Whispering Window” – a technology that is apparently being implemented nowadays in several retail shops worldwide. There were a lot of technical terms thrown into the mix as they were explaining it but it was basically a way of attracting consumers as they pass by your store window. The proximity of a potential customer to the window triggers a sound through the glass, which acts as a speaker. In this case, the sound is the usual streets of Paris along with a cycled whisper of  the words “Vergers de France” from time to time. So if you were walking in the mall and passed by a Zohoor Al Reef window display, you are most likely going to hear the surroundings of Paris all of a sudden.

Finally, it was time to unveil what they have hyped regarding the “augmented reality” experience. As it turns out, one of the printouts that were distributed in our tables had more purpose than being a mere promotional material. We had to download an app called “Junaio” and once it was open, we had to point our device’s camera to the picture on the paper (a Parisian scenery) and instantly discover a short 3D experience showcasing the Vergers de France fragrances. It was nice, but I suppose I felt a little shorthanded because I was expecting more of like holograms or something…oh well, I might have to wait another 10 years for holographic marketing strategies to take place. Anyway, it was indeed something ‘different’ and will surely make me remember Vergers de France even more.

You'd have to experience it yourself! :)

Overall, it was one sweet event, especially for the ladies who were able to take home goodie bags with sample items of the Vergers de France line. :) 

You can find the Vergers de France collection in all of Zohoor Al Reef’s branches and even order them online if you wish. 

Stay scented! 

xoxo,

E.

Zohoor Al Reef has a total of 42 branches all over Riyadh alone. Check out their listing and contact info HERE.

Website: http://zohooralreef.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ZohoorAlreefStores

Twitter: @ZARStores

Instagram: @zarstores

Hail To The Shogun

A year ago, I wasn't a fan of hotel restaurants. I would have snubbed the snobbish menu that contains what I believe are overpriced bland food. My mind had changed over the past few months because one of my friends was insisting we try hotel restaurants whenever we go out. We're not rich; we just meet each other once in a blue moon that we consider those rare times worth celebrating up a notch. Remember Garden Barbecue? Yup, she was with me during that enjoyable time. We tried avoiding steaks this time around so being Japanese food lovers that we are, we zeroed in on Shogun Restaurant in Radisson Blu.

The Sushi Bar

Radisson Blu's Shogun Restaurant has been receiving raves from upscale foodies. I mean if it were for me, I would have gone to my go-to, tried and tested Japanese restaurants that are nearer my place but the good reviews made this restaurant worth checking out. Hotels can intimidate people; it makes us think that they're so classy and elegant only those who can afford a three-day stay can set foot on it but it's not always the case. We're all allowed to go inside a hotel for the sole purpose of dining in their restaurants. That's perfectly okay.

The teppanyaki tables

Warm miso soup for the hungry soul

Radisson Blu is one the hotels lining up the King Abdulaziz Road. It has four dining places: Shogun, Olivio's (an Italian resto), Brasserie on Four (serves international cuisine that we featured here) and their coffee shop, Cafe Vienna. Shogun is the most popular of all, with its airy yet classic Japanese ambiance. It is known for its fresh sushi and sashimi. We had another popular dish in mind: shabu-shabu, which we saw on the menu for SR 250 a pop. It's good for sharing!

Ready for some action!

Now we're dipping!

Shabu-shabu is a well-known Japanese dish that involves dipping thinly-sliced beef and vegetables into boiling water. Yes, it involves cooking so for those who can't wait, settle for the sushis instead. A pot of dashi (broth) on top of a stove came to our table. The well-marbled meat, glass noodles, and vegetables came on separate platters. We put them into the broth and stirred a few times. The ingredients are very delicate so you should know when to get them based on how you preferred your veggies and meat cooked. I like my meat cooked through and through and the veggies still crisp. 

Yeah, take your time. We can wait! :P

At first, we found the broth really mild, almost with no taste. So we asked for a spicier version. Again, the flavour didn't pack a punch to us so we figured maybe our tastebuds weren't cut out for this thing but the chef came by to our table and explained that we need to dip the meat and veggies to the sesame seed sauce it came with. He also took the pot and did his magic and suddenly, the soup was packed with flavor when it came back from the kitchen! 

Our bubbling mini cauldron, haha!

Since we considered the shabu-shabu our soup, we still ordered main courses. Excuse our hunger. It's not every day we get to dine in a hotel restaurant. Haha! We had their chicken and seafood teppanyaki. These dishes can be cooked in their teppanyaki tables but since we were only two and we needed the space of an ordinary table for our shabu-shabu set, we had our hot viands cooked in their kitchen. They came out piping and full of bite. 

Seafood teppanyaki with vegetables

Savory viands perfect with rice

We also ordered rolls, of course. We chose the classic California maki. These are more expensive than the ones you'll have in stand-alone restos but for some reason, we can't get enough of these rolls! They caressed all the right aspects of a good sushi and we were left wondering what made them so different when they all look the same! Must be the quality of ingredients and preparation. 

What makes you so good?

Simple presentation, clean consistency

Now, that was a full table for two! No wonder the waiters offered us a whole pot of tea afterwards! Haha! Their tea went well with our dessert: ice cream with bits of melon. Sweet and tart at the same time! It created a wonderful sensation in our taste buds! Overall, it was a pleasant hotel restaurant experience. It actually sealed the deal for me to try other hotel restaurants in the city. 

Have you tried Shogun? What are your favourite dishes there? Domo arigato for reading! ~ Sundrenched

Shogun Restaurant

Radisson Blu Hotel

Al Mubarakiah Plaza,

King Abdulaziz Street

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

T: + 966-11-4791234 (call for reservation)

Opening hours:

Lunch: Noon-3:00PM

Dinner: 7:00PM-11:00PM

How To Survive The Recruitment Process in the Philippines

aka The Process You Go Through When You Apply and Get a Job In Saudi Arabia 

aka What The Recruitment Agencies in the Philippines Put You Through 

aka Probably One of the Most Frustrating Moments in your Life 

I recently went through the recruitment process in the Philippines and like the true blue OC (takot sa unknown) that I am, I researched online on how processes like this go. And guess what I found out? Nothing. Nothing substantial. I mean there are features, news, and articles about it but there's no information that gives you direct answers. You know why? Because there is no direct answer. Every recruitment agency in the Philippines has their own processes they would want you to go through. But in my opinion, the whole formula is actually a bit simple. It goes something like this: 

1. Application 

2. Interview 

3. Acceptance 

4. Medical 

5. Government Stuff 

6. Orientation 

7. Flight 

Simple, yes? If only it is that easy. It gets complicated along the way, you see. There are a lot of obstacles you'll be facing. I'm telling you now that nothing is a walk in the park so you will be needing patience and more patience when you're at it. But that's why The Pink Tarha is here, we'll try to make your life easier by providing this guide so that you know, more or less, what constitutes your decision to go abroad, particularly going to Saudi Arabia *cough*. It is a tough choice but some hard decisions are needed to be made for whatever huge reason you have.

A huge decision. Don't rush.

First and foremost, the decision of working abroad and leaving your family and your comfort zone behind is difficult. It will unhinge you. It will scare the crap out of you, especially when your destination is in the Middle East. I'm not trying to scare you by the way. I'm just preparing you for the changes. So you really need to think hard if it's the right thing for you. While most of us think that going abroad will make life better, it's pretty obvious nowadays that it's not always the case. 

When friends ask me if it's okay to go abroad, I always tell them to see it like this: If you have a job in the Philippines that pays you well enough to provide for your family and have a bit of savings too, then don't. You see, it's not always about the money; it's not always about the things you need to provide or the dream of owning this and that. Sometimes, you have to cherish what you already have. You have to cherish the moments of being together because being apart can cause more problems than you can ever imagine. I was already attending my PDOS when my seatmate whose flight was scheduled two days from that day was still having second thoughts. If you're not sure (aka hindi buo ang loob mo), don't go. 

For those who decided to take a risk... Now, you need to find good agency. I didn't have to go through a lot of agencies in the Philippines to look for mine. I have an unusual case but the bottomline is, I processed my papers through the LBS International Recruitment in Kalaw, Manila. I don't know a lot of agencies in the Philippines (as a matter of fact, I only know of LBS and Royal Crown) and I don't have a lot of experience in dealing with agencies but I can truly say that I didn't have a horror story to share when it comes to LBS. I mean, the process went smoothly as far as I am concerned. Here are the list of agencies licensed by the POEA: http://www.workabroad.ph/list_all_jobs.php?by_what=agency (the link in the POEA site is not working). Avoid illegal recruiters! The rule of the thumb: if it's too good to be true, then it probably is. Research as much as you can about the agency before you commit. What is Google for?! 

The basic required documents are the following: 

1. Updated and comprehensive resume/CV 

2. Pictures (most of the time, 2x2) 

3. Valid Passport (renew your passport, if needed) 

4. NBI Clearance - (apply online before going to the NBI offices) 

5. Certificates of Employment 

6. Reference Letters (from supervisors) 

7. College Diploma (certified by CHED) or High School Diploma (whichever is your highest attainment) 

8. Transcript of Records, Certificate of Graduation *School documents should be authenticated (with red ribbon). 

9. Letter of No Objection (ex-Saudi workers know of this) 

10. Copy of final exit (for ex-Saudi workers also) 

There will be a few more documents you need, depending on the position you are applying for. For example, certificates of those who passed their licensure exams for nurses, accountants, etc. From there, you need to submit all these documents to the agency. You can apply through their online sites. Sometimes, walk-ins are also welcome. They usually schedule you for interview with the employers, either personally (when the employers visit the Philippines) or online (via Skype). When you're already accepted and your salary has been negotiated, that's the time you'll be scheduled for medical exams.

WORD.

I braced myself for the medical exam because I've heard a lot of bad experiences with regards to clinics that conduct medical exams for would-be OFWs. And while I did not encounter anything horrible, I would say that if most of us are healthy before we went to our medical, we'll already be sick when we get out of it! The long lines, rude employees, the narrow and lack of space, the crowd, the confusing steps... oh my gahd!!! Seriously, I cannot fathom how they can let people go through this mess of a system! 

For my medical, I went to Medisense Clinic, a few steps away from the agency. They told me to go as early as 6:00 in the morning and it was a good thing that I listened because I was one of the first persons in line. After 6:30, the line was already snaking its way down to the next block. The clinic opened around 8:00AM and we rushed inside. In fairness, we were given a list to follow. I was always the first one called when it came to the various tests. 

Here is the list of exams they'll be doing: 

1. Laboratory (blood work, stool, urine) 

2. Chest X-ray 

3. Nurse Station (weight, height, BP, etc.) 

4. Physical Exam (where you meet a doctor) 

5. Eyes, Ears, Nose (ECG for 40 years old and above) 

6. Dental 

7. Psychological Exam (written) 

It is always a good thing to be early because you'll be on fasting mode so you don't want the fasting period to elapse rendering your sacrifice invalid. Also, you'll finish early. I was done by 11:00 AM. I suggest you go on a diet mode a week or so before your scheduled medical exam. Also, don't be nervous especially when meeting the doctor because if you are, you'll probably be diagnosed with tachycardia, a condition where your heart rate is exceeding the normal rate. 

Results can be known 2-3 days after the exam. Some clinics forward them to the agencies but you can also ask for the result personally in the clinic. Now, there will be times that some of the results will make you UNFIT TO WORK. There are a lot of reasons for this but the common ones are high blood sugar, lung scar, etc. You are free to get a second opinion on other clinics. You don't have to go back to the same clinic, try other GAMCA-accredited clinics (GCC Approved Medical Centers Association) or your trusted health provider. You can take a week to stabilize whatever it is that is abnormal in your result. The doctor might recommend some medicines to help you. When the clinics tell you something that looks doubtful, be assertive and smart about it!

When you're going through the medical rounds.

I have a friend who underwent the same process as I did who forgot her eyeglasses at home during the medical exam. The optometrist was trying to force her to buy a new pair. She was threatening not to sign the certificate if she didn't. Now, it's pretty obvious that it's quite a bit of a scam because why would she buy a new one when she has a pair of her own? She can just go back and present the eyeglasses that she has. When I went to the dental part of my medical exam, the dentist was forcing me to get fillings before she signs the certificate. The price was a bit more expensive. I told her I have my own dentist and I'll just have to go back to the clinic and bring proof. When I submitted my form to the nurse, she told me that I don't have to worry about the dental as long as the agency doesn't request for it. So uhmn, why force me to get fillings done when it's not important to my application? If I fell for the bait, I would have spend more. 

After you get the FIT TO WORK paper, you go back to the agency and fill up and sign forms. From then on, they'll be the ones in charge of your papers. You need to submit your passport to them (so no international traveling for the time being) and they'll process your POEA, OWWA, Philhealth, and PAG-IBIG stuff. I paid the agency P3,000 for these.

If you think that the medical is done and over with (*insert evil laugh here*), you're wrong. It depends on the company/hospital you're going to, you will be required to get vaccines, antibody profiling, and a PPD test. For all these, I was referred to the Physician's Diagnostic Clinic in UN Avenue. I can honestly say that this part of my recruitment process is the most difficult, if not the most kasumpa-sumpa. LOL. This is where I literally got sick during and after the ordeal of waiting a few hours just to pay for my antibody and PPD test (they only have 1 cashier working!). There were so many people! I wonder how the building can take so many at a time! It was chaotic and warm and noisy. My friend who went there for the full medical exam had to be there by 5:00AM! The lines outside are so long you'd think Daniel Padilla is having a concert! 

Medical Fees (rounded up):

P3,200 (full medical fee)

P2,750 (antibody profile + PPD test)

P1,500 (MMRV vaccine)

P600 (Varicella Vaccine)

Okay, so after the grueling medical exam part, you'll have to go for PDOS or the infamous Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (pay P100). As you can see, this entry is over a mile long already that's why I reserved another entry for the PDOS. Especially since it really deserves a SPECIAL place in the minds of OFWs. That's sarcastic by the way. Anyway... 

The agency will inform you of an orientation session with them. The orientation in LBS was a good one. They were organized and their staff knows what they were doing. They will give a run through of the airport experience and the rules in the country you're going to. They will give you the documents you'll be needing to present in the airport, the immigration both in Manila and your destination, and they'll be wishing you good luck. READ all the documents before signing! 

Ladies need to take a pregnancy exam (pay P100) again before leaving so make sure you're not pregnant or else, every thing you've worked hard for in going abroad will be all for nothing (unless you really want to get pregnant and abort your trip then Congratulations!). 

I spent more or less P15,000 for all these. Add the fares from our house in Pasig to Manila (I re-learned the art of commuting) and food, the overall cost balloons to around P20,000. Well, it's not their fault I live in Pasig. Haha. Then there is the matter of a placement fee... here's a guide for you on what it is and what is the legal amount for one. It's better if you find an agency that has "no placement fee." (I didn't pay any placement fee in LBS.) 

The airport process is pretty much a breeze when you already know the basics (if you have companions from the same agency who are flying on the same sched, it will be good to be in contact with them... unless they're super late then don't wait). You need to present your OEC to the POEA/OWWA counter and they'll just validate it. Go to the counter of your airlines and get your boarding pass. You are not going to pay for the terminal fee. Go to the OFW lane at the immigration, pass another scanning machine, and voila, you're in the boarding gate. Several hours after, you'll reach your country of destination. 

Yes it will, in different directions and results.

For those going to Saudi Arabia, the immigration officers are more friendly now (at least that's my observation). You will have to line up in the "newbie" lane. They will take a photo of you (seriously, it doesn't hurt to smile!) and scan your fingerprints. After that, go outside the immigration area and wait for your baggage. If you're a woman, then someone (a representative or your employer) will be coming to fetch you. If you're a man, then most likely, you get your luggage, go through a scanner, and exit at the arrival doors. Someone will be waiting for you there. Most probably the driver of your company bus/vehicle.

After that, AHLAN WASALAN to the Middle East!!! Good luck in your journey and life abroad. If you survived the recruitment process then you'll most probably survive living and working in the Middle East. It takes patience and guts. It is after all, a survival of the fittest. ;) ~ Sundrenched

Dining With The Stars(' Paraphernalia) at Planet Hollywood

When we moved into our new neighborhood, one of the first things we did was scour for nearby establishments and restaurants. The North Ring Area (Exits 5-8) is slowly developing into a busy hub of restaurants similar to Thalia. We found a lot of familiar names like Johnny Rockets, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Piatto, Steak House, Forchetta, Bread Talk and even more are restaurants popping up. 

We decided to have dinner at Planet Hollywood – minus the casinos and live music. Hehehe. It has the same décor: glass-encased Hollywood movie costumes and “walk of fame”. It also boasts of a cozy terrace dining area for those who want to chill out. 

Terraced Restaurant

Movie souvenirs adorn the walls

Retrace the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Mel Gibson's Police Car in Lethal Weapon

They even have a souvenir shop!

We wanted to sit at the terrace area but it was already full, but that's okay since their indoor dining area was cozy enough. We ordered the PH Combo platter to tryout their appetizers. This platter is a combination of fried shrimp, calamari, chicken fingers and nachos. Personally, I loved their guacamole dip with their nacho chips.

Our appetizer, yum!

We didn't have to wait too long and we were served our main dish. Hubby ordered a New York Steak with Mushroom Sauce while I ordered the Fillet of Atlantic Salmon. At first I thought the Salmon felt a little bland but when I added a bit of lemon, it was transformed into a tangy dish! The mashed potatoes were also good. 

Fillet of Atlantic Salmon

New York Steak with Mushroom Sauce

Overall a good experience! The waiters were very attentive and responsive. We were too full to order desserts but we're definitely coming back to try their other menus. Plus they already have their Ramadan promotion up: 79 SAR for appetizers, pasta and dessert so we might try that for Iftar next month.

Cheers!
Sampaguita Pride

Planet Hollywood
Northern Ring Road Branch,
At Taawun, Riyadh 12477
Coordinates: 24.777903, 46.689062
Opens 12:30 pm to 2:00 am.

PS. Their seafood soup is also worth mentioning. It's all I ever eat as a starter in the place. ;) ~ EIC