Quality, care, and patience are the hallmarks of traditional Italian cuisine.
Despite the simplicity of Italian cuisine's ingredients, it is a cuisine that requires patience and attention to detail. The unending patience of Italian chefs is evident in the preparation needed to create handmade and homemade pasta in addition to the the resting and rising of pizza dough.
Since its opening in May of this year, Forno Del Buffone has welcomed visitors from across the Kingdom. Bringing the essence of Italian flavour and hospitality to Riyadh, the restaurant combines Italian cuisine with an American touch to add some excitement to your visit.
When asked why they chose Italian cuisine despite its complexity and detail, Carl Abi Aad, the restaurant's Public Relations Officer and Awareness Manager, said the idea came from the team's desire to offer an authentic Italian dining experience in Saudi Arabia.
The Secret to Success (and Flavour)
To ensure an authentic flavour, Forno del Buffone uses imported and seasonal ingredients straight from Italy. Creating a hearty and welcoming atmosphere that the country is known for, the restaurant replicates that warm ambiance of Italians with professional service and the wood-fired oven
The wood-fired oven is an indispensable element at Forno Del Buffone, as it significantly impacts the final texture of the pizza, enhancing the smoky flavour and giving the pizza a beautiful Neapolitan-like appearance with its browned, dotted crust. Finally, the high temperatures in the wood-fired oven give the pizza edges an unparalleled crispiness, which is difficult to achieve in other ways, according to Carl.
In addition to this, Italian cuisine represents a rich heritage of flavour and quality, known for its delicious dishes loved worldwide, Abi Aad added that offering Italian cuisine is challenging as they strive to maintain the authenticity of traditional dishes and flavours while meeting the high expectations of visitors. The team are committed to using the best fresh ingredients and traditional methods to ensure a unique dining experience.
With a rather extensive menu of Italian deliciousness, choosing just one item to indulge in at Forno del Buffone is difficult. It requires several visits or a large and hungry group to try different dishes.
From a fresh burrata salad to wholesome arancini, the true beauty of Forno del Buffone is in the handmade pastas and pizzas. There numerous pasta options to choose from, including dishes of fettuccine, penne and spaghetti, alongside gnocchi and risotto. For those searching for something different, choose the Veal Milanese, breaded and flattened veal is served with arugula and Parmesan cheese, or the Chicken Piccata, served with spaghetti and lemon sauce. Pasta dishes served with handfuls of fresh pecorino and generous helping of extra virgin olive oil, and a whole lot of love.
Choose your favourite base, either Napoletana (thick and soft) or Romana (thin and crispy) and then its time to take flavour into account. A spicy Diavola, a creamy Alfredo, a rich Truffle or a classic Margherita, each is made with fresh and homemade dough, a flavourful Italian tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
The refreshing interior design takes visitors on a vibrant Italian journey, with the colour scheme of white, red, and a touch of blue. The service is fast and friendly, with staff greeting you with a big smile and guiding you toward dishes that will exceed your expectation, such as the Gnocchi Nonna, made of delicious pasta with tomato and spicy lemon sauce, served in a baked bread bowl if you love red sauce, or the Shrimp Scampi, made of spaghetti with garlic butter, parsley, and asparagus in lemon sauce if you prefer a seafood touch.
For Dessert: Tiramisu or Cannoli Crunch?
Don't ask for the bill before getting dessert. We highly recommend enjoying a traditional and lovingly prepared dessert.
When asked which is a must-try dessert, Abi Aad replied: "We recommend guests try the amazing tiramisu. It never disappoints, the classic Italian taste with rich coffee flavour and creamy layers work perfectly together. If you prefer a more innovative dessert with a variety of flavours and textures, the Cannoli Crunch is an excellent choice."
Pizza: From SAR 39 - 80
Pasta: From SAR40 - 65
Risotto: From SAR 59 – 70
@fornodelbuffone
Book your table here
Imam Saud Bin Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Rd, An Nakheel, Riyadh 12245
Check out more new restaurants in Riyadh right here
