Dasha in Riyadh: Inside Akira Back’s new Chinese restaurant with a karaoke room

The world-renowned chef is bringing his MICHELIN magic to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia is brimming with celebrity chefs. One celebrity chef who is hoping to put their mark on the capital is internationally renowned chef Akira Back. He has opened a new restaurant in Riyadh – Dasha – which looks set to be a dining destination. 

Located in The Esplanade, Dasha is a modern Chinese restaurant. To prove the point, it is even home to a private karaoke room. The highlights on the menu include the Cantonese Dim Sum, Crispy Prawn with Sriracha Mayo and Peking Duck. Plus, the drinks menu includes mojitos and mocktails.

Dasha in Riyadh is great for groups, as there are long banquettes and tables. The décor includes dark wooden panels and tables, which are punctuated by cream chairs and sofas. The sophisticated, sleek interiors are dimly lit but include warm touches throughout. We spotted gold edges on the shelves with vases, an open kitchen with a fire and candles on the table.

If you want to unleash your inner Freddie Mercury, then head over to the karaoke room. The venue bills itself as a premium karaoke bar. Plus, the experience is more relaxed, as it includes a TV screen, microphones, sofas and graffiti on the walls.    

Akira Back was born in Seoul, Korea and had an unusual route into the restaurant industry. At the age of 15, he started snowboarding and would compete professionally. He later studied at the International Culinary School at The Institute of Colorado, and went on to work in Aspen, Texas and Hawaii. 

Today, he has restaurants across the world including San Diego, Singapore and Seychelles. He is behind the self-titled restaurant in the UAE’s W Dubai – The Palm. In 2018, he awarded a MICHELIN Star for his restaurant Dosa in Seoul. In 2022, he opened the pop-up Dubai – Dasha, The Dubai Chapter. Plus, he has restaurants opening in Doha, Istanbul and London. 

We can’t wait to dash to Dasha in Riyadh.

GO: Visit https://dashathree.orientaldemo.com for more information.