"Gilded and coated in cerulean and Tiffany blues, this downtown Portland Saudi Arabian restaurant looks as regal as its name suggests — and its food matches the decor. Meals here should begin with meze, particularly the velvety and tangy stuffed grape leaves; afterward, the special of the day is a must, whether it’s a silken saleeg — similar to a risotto with chicken — or a smoked lamb shank with mandi rice. Desserts are essential here, particularly slices of the sauce-smothered cheesecakes; when served on a platter alongside gorgeous brass dallahs filled with delicately roasted Arabic coffee, they’ll scream “celebration” more than most dessert courses in town." - Michelle Lopez, Brooke Jackson-Glidden