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Dining Out In Portland! Riyadh’s Lebanese Barbeque Restaurant!

I’ve been really amiss in not writing more blog posts like these. I’ve been to probably a dozen restaurants in the past couple of months that I could have written about on here. Why the distraction? New romance, busy season at work, a bit of a social life, I’ve really been distracted. But I’m trying to start remembering again to take photos when I go out so I can report back to you.

Last night, my friend Jen texted and wanted to meet up for drinks and dinner. Although I’d already had an early dinner, I’d also had one of my rare, not very hungry days. Lunch had been a protein bar and I didn’t have my usual morning snack. So I decided I could have another meal, and it would be something of a treat meal. I’ve been working really hard on not eating sugar and cutting back on carbs. My meal at Riyadh’s had plenty of carbs, but no sugar or dairy, so it wasn’t too, too terrible for me.

Riyadh’s has been in Portland for a long time. Jen mentioned seeing it when she moved her seven years ago and I’ve passed it many times while out walking or on the bus. It was always one of those places you go by but never seem to eat at. According to their website, the original owner retired in 2011 and sold the restaurant to one of his employees. It’s now run by Armando and his wife. I’m glad I finally got to eat there.

It’s hard to miss Riyadh’s as the outside of it is decorated in white holiday lights and is very bright and welcoming.

The interior is very warm and cozy, with dark, wood tables, and dim lighting. Our server asked if we needed more time, we did need a few minutes, but she disappeared for about twenty. She had a great personality, though, and made of big joke of it when she came back. She also was a great salesperson and almost convinced us to try one of the appetizers. I ordered the fish combo plate, which came with fried cod, cucumber salad, falafels, tabouli and hummus. Jen got the baked lentils and a Greek salad, she also convinced them to bring us one of their giant, house made pita breads. It took quite a while for the food to arrive, but it was well worth the wait.

I would say that the smoked fish was probably the most impressive item on the menu. I just loved the smoked flavor and I think I might just have to check out some electric smoker reviews and find the best smoker so I can try to incorporate that delicious barbeque flavor into my cooking. Perhaps.