Sky-high dining in the heart of Riyadh.
When you think of Riyadh, one of the first things that comes to mind is Al Faisaliah Tower. An icon on the city skyline, the Kingdom’s first skyscraper is instantly recognisable for its pyramid-esque point, complete with a golden sphere at the top. But did you know that the adornment is more than just decorative? The Globe is actually a dramatic three-story domed restaurant offering a unique vantage point high above the Saudi capital.
To reach the dizzying heights of the 267 meters high restaurant, a reservation is required. Guests then pass through airport-style security in the grand lobby of Al Faisaliah Tower before ascending skywards in a dedicated elevator.
Arriving at the base of the sphere resembling a disco ball made from 655 glass panels, diners must cross over to a separate elevator to travel the remainder of the way into the impressive structure. Once inside, we’re greeted with enthusiasm by the team of waiters in their pressed white shirts and jackets.
As we cross the 24-meter dining room, we cannot help but gaze at the view of Riyadh that splays out beneath us, from the glittering skyscrapers of the KAFD and the Kingdom Centre to the North to historic Diriyah in the West. The dining room, now 26 years old, shows subtle signs of its age, from the deep red carpets that probably have a lifetime of stories to tell to the lone bathroom with its raggedy lock. Despite the retro feeling, The Globe boasts an almost infectious charm thanks to the strong service and the sky-high location.
Seated at a glass table adorned with a rose and a small lamp, we’re ideally positioned to marvel at the streams of cars traversing King Fahad Road towards the twisted structure of Al Majdoul Tower. It’s an impressive sight in a city where sky-high dining remains a novelty, and we take it all in while sipping on a selection of signature mocktails, such as the vibrant Ameretti Sour (SAR 55) and the more robust Old Cuban (SAR 55).
The Globe offers dinner, drinks and high tea, and while many will opt for the seven-course tasting menu (SAR 863), such expenditure is not required. With a menu of modern European cuisine, diners can feast on Bouillabaisse (SAR 396), Steak Tartare (SAR 125) and Lobster and Truffle Risotto (SAR 402). We begin with thin slithers of Salmon Gravlax (SAR 130) presented upon a pristine white plate alongside crisp capers, acacia honey and Dijon mustard. It’s an impressive dish that is presented ceremoniously by our friendly waiter.
While the main courses include a mammoth grill section that takes in racks of lamb, tiger prawns and tomahawk steaks, all served with a selection of salts, sides and sauces. We’re drawn towards the Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli (SAR 185). The delightful plate features generously stuffed pasta pillows topped with asparagus and porcini, drizzled with brown butter and sage, and finished with a sprinkling of Parmesan.
A selection of Insta-worthy desserts almost draws our attention away from the ever-evolving skyline and includes Apple Crumble (SAR 65), Lemon Meringue (SAR 75) and a Chocolate Tart (SAR 98) served with hazelnut crunch and Chantilly.
After dinner, visitors are encouraged to visit the outdoor viewing deck for picture-perfect panoramas of both the city skyline and The Globe itself. The gentle breeze provides a welcome change from the stuffiness of the restaurant space, which despite its charm, feels a little too formal at times.
The Globe makes for an exciting addition to the dining destinations at Al Faisaliah Tower, which is also home to FACT favourites LPM Restaurant & Café and MAMO Michelangelo, as well as Meraki Riyadh and Yauatcha Riyadh. Offering the perfect location for a special occasion meal, The Globe is much more than a room with a view.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
