RIYADH: You know those “random” restaurants you find scrolling on Hungerstation or Jahez that look too unassuming for you to think to try? And then one day on a whim you do decide to try and it turns out be the greatest discovery you made that month?
That is how I feel about MXD, a healthy eatery with branches across Riyadh that provides great quality, taste and is reasonably priced.
I was honestly blown away by this place. When I usually order from a healthy spot I know to minimize my expectations on flavor but this place made me reevaluate my standards. The meals are super simple yet delicious, and they hit on all the important food groups.
My go-to have been the rice meals, especially the sweet chili beef and the chicken booster. The beef comes with basmati rice and sliced beef topped with coriander and mint chutney, served with broccoli and roasted sweet potatoes — strong flavors and the beef is cooked very well.
The chicken booster also has a base of basmati rice topped with tender grilled chicken in a creamy sauce, avocado, roasted sweet corn and the roasted sweet potato.
Other options include a butter chicken, Korean steak topped with an egg, creamy lemon chicken and a chicken fajita bowl.
The chicken fajita bowl was less than impressive; I would stick to the hot meals and save the Mexican cravings for another time.
What I love about these meals is how whole they feel — you have your carbs, your veggies and your protein, and the portions are just the right amount to leave you satisfied.
They also have some gourmet rice meal picks if you want to splurge a little more for top quality. The Kashmir lamb, Red Sea shrimp bowl, Tokyo teriyaki salmon, crunchy Thai salad and more are all just as good as they sound.
It could not hurt to try out the sandwiches as well — am I a little tired of these Joe and the Juice style crispy bread sandwiches everywhere? Yes, yes, I am, but they are pretty good nonetheless.
A few options to choose from and you really cannot go wrong with any: Dijon glazed chicken, tuna blaze, pesto chicken, Seoul steak, chicken tikka and grilled halloumi.
They also have a selection of large salads to choose from, including a zaatar chicken crunch (my favorite), crispy quinoa, Athens chicken salad, Caesar salad, a crispy crab salad and more.
I only wish for there to be smaller side salad options to order alongside a larger meal.
