The ritual of making coffee and sharing it with someone is far more than just a mere beverage in Saudi Arabia – it’s a way to socialise, a means of connection. Cafe culture in Riyadh is a vibrant medley of old traditions and new trends. Coffee itself is embedded in the Saudi lifestyle, a symbol of hospitality and national pride. These days, the centuries-old custom of drinking coffee and gathering to do so with others is evolving in many exciting ways across the kingdom.
Traditional Saudi coffee, referred to as “qahwa” or “gahwa”, is made from lightly roasted Arabica beans and infused with spices like cardamom, saffron, or cloves for a potent, fragrant taste that is highly distinctive. It’s typically accompanied by dates or sweets when served.
These days, you can find Saudi-roasted coffee served in a plethora of ways. There’s an increasing number of designer cafes and specialty coffee shops popping up that are keeping the city well caffeinated. Whether you’re grabbing a meticulously brewed espresso on your way to work, spending a long afternoon at one of Riyadh’s beautiful outdoor cafes, or enjoying a late-night catch-up with friends at a 24-hour coffee shop, there’s a spot for every mood and time of day.
With unique, intriguing and highly Instagrammable venues, the capital’s coffee scene is thriving like never before and whatever your order, there’s bound to be somewhere you love. This is our pick of the best coffee shops and cafes in Riyadh.
1. ½ Million Café
Half Million is a specialty coffee chain known for its relaxed vibe. It's one of the most popular coffee spots in Riyadh, with additional branches in Jeddah, Sharqiyah, and even London. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate their diverse offerings, including V60, iced drip, cold brew, and the usual signature coffees, alongside iced lattes in fun flavors like cereal and pistachio.
Their baked goods are equally delightful, featuring savoury treats like cheese and zaatar croissants and decadent sweets like pistachio eclairs. The standout dessert, however, is the Coffee Crunch – an indulgent mix of ice cream, espresso, chocolate drizzle, and lotus biscuit crumbs.
Various locations in Riyadh; @halfmillion_sa
2. EL&N
This pretty-in-pink cafe is Instagram and TikTok catnip. There are three locations across the city and a fourth in Jeddah. You’ll probably come for the interiors, but stay for the menu – EL&N’s design is decked out with all pink everything, complete with blooming flower walls, but the food is great too.
Don’t sleep on dishes like the loaded croissant or the French toast, which comes with a whole range of toppings. EL&N have several cafes at the airport but their outpost at Park Mall has a gorgeous private terrace area that’s ideal for a private gathering. They’re open for all-day dining, but brunch is by far the most popular option.
Riyadh Park Mall; @elan_cafe
3. L’Eto
Another London export, L’Eto Caffe is now in seven countries, including the Kingdom. Neoclassical interiors with beautiful decor make it feel like a special occasion at this cafe and restaurant. The food menu here is full of healthy, nutritious options but be sure to leave room for dessert. It’s all about balance, and the cakes and tarts here are well worth it. Creamy, fruity, light, rich…you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Multiple branches, Riyadh; @letocaffe.official
4. Elixir Bunn
Stylish Italian terrazzo floors and counters, and a large matte black spiral staircase make Elixir Bunn one of the most aesthetically pleasing chain of coffee shops in Riyadh. Designed by award-winning architecture practice Azaz Architects, the spaces aim to "create a modern-day spiritual experience for coffee drinkers in Riyadh." They’ve also got impressive vinyl collections. Stop by one of their seven branches scattered across the city.
Multiple branches, Riyadh; @elixirbunn
5. Haila Cafe
Tucked in the middle of Riyadh’s storied Souq Al Zal, Haila is a refuge for weary shoppers seeking a pause from the market’s sensory overload. For the uninitiated, Souq Al Zal is a time capsule rather than just a shopping district. Haila sits along one of the narrow alleyways that still hum with the memory of Riyadh’s past, reminding visitors that this city’s soul is not only found in its futuristic skyline but in its roots.
Step inside and nostalgia takes over. The cafe’s interior is infused with worn wood and heritage charm, with a facade that looks as if it’s been here forever. The centre of the cafe boasts eye-catching framed photographs of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, with one dating back to 2005, the year he spearheaded the market’s revival. The transformation saw a haphazard bazaar turn into the polished yet authentic Souq Al Zal that now draws visitors from around the globe.
Come sunset, visitors can spill outdoors, where a a handful of small wooden tables are set up in the alley next to the entrance. Despite its deep connection to heritage, Haila keeps its menu contemporary: Spanish lattes, hot chocolate, and matcha share space with traditional Saudi treats like kleeja, caramel, and date molasses desserts.
Souq Al Zal, Riyadh; @hailacoffeesa
6. Fabrica de Cafè
Fabrica de Cafè may sound Spanish and look Mediterranean, but it’s Saudi born and brewed. The interiors are bright, contemporary and chic, with natural materials, warm wood and earthy textures. It’s all about the drinks here – their matcha is just as good as the coffee, and if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the deliciously fudgy cookies and creamy tiramisu.
Hittin and An Nakheel, Riyadh; @fabrica_sa
7. So Matcha
The brainchild of Saudi beauty entrepreneur Yara Al Namlah, So Matcha has quickly become one of Riyadh’s trendiest cafes. The branches are charming, cute and modern, with fun pink and green interiors that are highly photogenic. The contemporary, cosy vibe offers every flavour and variation of matcha possible. There's the classic ‘Matcha Fuel’, a creamy Matcha Latte, a rose-flavoured option called ‘So Rosy’ and plenty of others.
If it’s dessert you’re after, try the matcha soft serve ice cream, and if you’re visiting with non-matcha fans, they luckily also serve coffee! If you are a matcha drinker and want to make your own at home, So Matcha sells kits with the powder and a bamboo whisk, as well as books and magazines all about the many health benefits of this ancient superfood.
Multiple branches, Riyadh; @somatcha.me
8. Ralph's Coffee
The design of Ralph's Coffee speaks volumes: as one would expect, it's an ode to classic American style, where crisp white and deep green tones are interwoven throughout, to create that signature Ralph Lauren atmosphere and feel. Carefully curated artworks line the walls, adding a touch of old-world refinement to the room. And while the indoor seating says plush comfort, the outdoor terrace at the KAFD branch promises a more enchanting experience, especially on Riyadh’s crisp winter nights.
The cafe’s beverage offerings are as sophisticated as the space itself. From expertly pulled Americanos and velvety flat whites to perfectly balanced lattes and the house specialty, there’s no shortage of refined sips. Your drink arrives in an elegant glass cup, complete with delicate latte art featuring none other than Ralph Lauren’s iconic bear.
KAFD and the Diplomatic Quarter; @ralphscoffee
