Ghadi Joudah
Craving authentic Lebanese flavors that sing? Look no further than Goodies Selections in Riyadh. This restaurant has become my steadfast go-to for a reason: Consistently delicious food that keeps visitors coming back.
The feast always begins with an array of starters. Its quinoa salad with apple and pomegranate is fresh, vibrant, and perfectly dressed with a zesty citrus vinaigrette that makes it anything but ordinary.
Keep in mind that the salad leans more toward a sour taste, which some of you might consider overpowering.
The hummus is textbook perfection: velvety smooth chickpea puree generously topped with quality olive oil. Do not miss the muhammara with its rich, smoky depth from the spicy paste and crushed walnuts.
For comforting fried delights, the cheese sambousek is always spot on, and the kibbeh Sajiyeh delivers a satisfying crunch, giving way to a flavorful, spiced meat and onion filling.
While the tabbouleh is fresh, it feels a little basic next to these undoubted stars. The eggplant fatteh, unfortunately, is a real letdown. It lacks punch and the textures feel monotonous.
Goodies truly shines with its larger plates. The lamb zucchini and vine leaves is an absolute triumph, juicy lamb paired with perfectly stuffed zucchini and grape leaves, ll brought together by cooling, fresh yoghurt.
Equally impressive is the kebab meat plate. The kebabs are incredibly tender, succulent, and notably less fatty than versions you might have tried elsewhere. Grilled beautifully alongside sweet onions and tomatoes, this dish alone justifies a visit.
No Lebanese meal is complete without dessert, and the Lebanese knafeh with cheese is the ideal finish. Crispy, golden pastry encasing perfectly gooey, stretchy cheese, and drenched in sweet syrup. It may arrive almost too hot to eat immediately, but the wait is absolutely worth it — that first bite of warm, cheesy sweetness is pure bliss.
Goodies Selections consistently delivers the vibrant, hearty flavors of Lebanon in Riyadh. While a couple of dishes do not quite hit the heights, the overall quality is exceptional.
Courtesy: arabnews
