Berenjak

Berenjak is a Persian kebab restaurant at VIA Riyadh, in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, described as the brand's first permanent Saudi outpost. The concept centres on Persian charcoal cooking, with skewers grilled over open coals in the style of Iranian kebab houses. The signature dish is kabab koobideh, minced meat seasoned and moulded onto flat skewers, grilled and served with rice, grilled tomato and flatbread. Other Persian grills complete the menu, and the cuisine emphasises simple seasoning, smoke and good bread rather than elaborate sauces. The brand's reputation comes from its London-based origins and its focus on affordable, informal Persian grilling; chef context beyond that is not documented here, and there is no Michelin recognition claimed for the Riyadh branch. The dining room at VIA Riyadh sits within a modern open-air lifestyle destination, so the mood is lively and casual rather than formal, with an open grill as the visual centrepiece and a steady buzz from groups of friends and families. Dress is smart-casual and modest. Alcohol is not part of the Saudi dining scene, so drinks usually include tea, doogh-style yoghurt drinks where available, mocktails and soft drinks. Reservations are advised on Thursday and Friday, when the venue is busiest, and booking a few days ahead is sensible for groups. Prices are mid-range for Riyadh, at roughly SAR 110 to 220 per person, depending on how many skewers and sides are ordered. Opening is listed as daily for lunch and dinner, but visitors should verify current hours with the venue. The location inside the Diplomatic Quarter makes it convenient for travellers staying nearby or visiting embassies, and it offers a different flavour from the Saudi and Italian restaurants that dominate the district.