The Roaring Twenties Meet the Modern Flame: A Night at House of Grill, Riyadh
©House of Grill
There is a magnetic pull toward the iconic Fairmont Riyadh that transcends its reputation for understated luxury. To enter this landmark hotel is to step into a realm of curated excellence, but nestled within its sophisticated corridors lies a destination that elevates the entire experience to something far more cinematic. House of Grill is not merely a restaurant; it is a vibrant portal to the Roaring Twenties, masterminded by the creative vision of Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Isnard. While the Fairmont provides the grand stage of world-class hospitality, House of Grill delivers the drama, the brio, and a dining experience that feels like a perpetual gala. The simple act of visiting such an iconic hotel is an experience in itself, but finding this jewel within its walls makes it a true excellence within an excellence.
A Masterclass in Atmospheric Design
The ambiance is a study in opulent nostalgia, capturing the spirited energy of a Gatsby-era party where feathered wall accents, sweeping beaded chandeliers, and Art Deco fixtures create a space that is as much about fashion and flair as it is about food. It is a room that practically demands you dress for the occasion, yet it replaces stuffy formality with a sense of playful discovery. The attention to detail is obsessive, extending beyond the architecture into the tactile experience of the table. From the weight of the bespoke cutlery to the intricate patterns on the plates, every element suggests that you are part of an exclusive event where the craftsmanship of the environment mirrors the precision of the kitchen.
©House of Grill
The Ritual of the Hearth and Grain
The culinary journey is an organic progression of seasonal brilliance, with Chef Isnard evolving the menu to reflect the finest ingredients of the moment. The experience often begins with a bread service that redefines expectations. The selection of leavened breads and sourdough is among the finest ever encountered—complex in texture with a deep, fermented soul that serves as the perfect prologue to the meal.
However, the true character of the kitchen is defined by its relationship with fire. This is not about a subtle hint of smoke, but the unmistakable, robust personality of food cooked over glowing coals. This elemental technique gives a unique identity to the dishes, allowing the natural sweetness of the ingredients to mingle with the intense, clean char of the grill.
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A Seasonal Spectacle: Culinary Highlights
Because the menu at House of Grill is a living document that shifts with the seasons, every visit offers a new opportunity for discovery. Chef Isnard’s compositions are a theatrical arc where the coal-fired essence takes center stage. To understand the kitchen's mastery, one might look to the 300-gram Black Onyx Angus beef cube roll, a cut that absorbs the heat to create a flavor profile that is both primitive and incredibly refined.
©House of Grill
The seafood is treated with equal reverence; chargrilled jumbo prawns are transformed by the flames, as is the delicate seabass, each dish carrying a depth that is impossible to achieve with conventional cooking. Even the supporting acts are elevated to essential status; a guest might find the roasted cauliflower transformed into a smoky centerpiece or enjoy the earthy indulgence of expertly prepared truffle fries. The evening inevitably concludes with desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, such as a tiramisu praline which offers a textured, modern reimagining of a beloved classic.
The Art of the Evening
Dining at House of Grill is a multisensory affair that captures the essence of the 1920s through a contemporary, high-energy lens. With the frequent presence of live music and a choreographed service team that navigates the room with effortless grace, the energy never wanes. It is a place where the spectacle of the coal and the charm of the era converge, proving that in the heart of Riyadh’s most iconic hotel, the best traditions are those served with a modern, fiery spirit.
©House of Grill
Our experience at House Of Grill was hosted.