Riyadh's coffee culture is undergoing a vibrant transformation, and as the city solidifies its status as a cultural, fashion and commercial hub, a new wave of designer coffee shops is emerging.
These cafes are not only stylish in their interiors but also embody fashion in their brand DNA, marrying hospitality and haute couture. Yes, they serve fabulous coffee and mouthwatering menus of both Saudi and globally-inspired food, but they also represent a fusion of art, fashion and gastronomy.
In a city known for its hospitality and rich cultural heritage, these coffee shops have quickly become social hotspots. Whether you’re a stylish local or a visitor who’s just passing through, these are the best spots to caffeinate and catch up with friends. With luxurious interiors, unique menus, and unmatched service, they provide an immersive experience inspired by our favourite fashion brands and stylish trends.
After all, a cup of coffee is all the more enjoyable when sipped in aesthetically pleasing surroundings. From the chicest cafe in Riyadh for matcha to a cappuccino expertly brewed by your favourite fashion label, read on for Riyadh's best design-focused coffee shops.
1. Ralph’s Cafe
Conceived by Ralph Lauren himself, this cafe is opened its doors to great fanfare in the KAFD district of Riyadh after much anticipation. Ralph’s, like the fashion brand, embodies a passion for quality, comfort and of course, a classic American spirit. The concept began in New York, with the first cafe opening in the brand's flagship store on 5th Avenue. With 24 cafes and coffee trucks globally, including locations in Washington D.C., Miami, London, Tokyo and Doha, this latest opening is exciting news for the region.
The cafe evokes a sense of timeless preppy Americana, serving delicious house-blend coffee and specialty desserts. Ralph Lauren’s iconic custom china, in a distinctive hue of green, adds a layer of nostalgia. There's even a retail corner offering branded mugs, tote bags, hats and even dog bowls for purchase. Why not take a little bit of Ralph Lauren's signature style home with you?
2. Dolce & Gabbana Caffé
Another huge fashion name, Dolce & Gabbana has opened a luxury cafe in Riyadh's historic Diriyah district, within their 2000-sq-m flagship store in Bujairi Terrace. This move reflects the growing synergy between luxury fashion and hospitality; the caffé sits within a lavish Dolce & Gabbana boutique, which sells everything from high end designer clothing and jewellery to homeware.
Designed to “embody the essence of Italian conviviality,” you’ll of course enjoy exquisite food and drinks here too. The cafe-meets-lounge is the first Dolce & Gabbana cafe in the Middle East,
3. Sadelle’s Riyadh
This cafe may not be directly affiliated with a fashion brand, but it is definitely one of the coolest cafes in Riyadh. If you are craving a taste of New York, Sadelle’s will delight you with its authenticity. They specialise in one of the Big Apple’s most popular foods – the bagel.
Here you can try an array of variations, from sesame to cheese and sweet cinnamon. The venue itself is modern and elegant, with intricate mosaic floors and lofty ceilings that feel grand. Dig into New York culture while you are there and check out the books and magazines they have on display too. It’s a fantastic spot to meet friends, with a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
4. So Matcha
The brainchild of Saudi beauty entrepreneur Yara Al Namlah, So Matcha has quickly become one of Riyadh’s trendiest cafes and now has several outposts in the city. It’s charming, cute and modern, with a fun pink and green interior that’s highly photogenic. The contemporary, cosy spot 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 though, 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.
5. Café Kitsuné
Although a renowned, boutique Parisian coffee chain and clothing brand, Café Kitsuné embraces the charm of small, intimate coffee shops with a modern, cosmopolitan style. Each location shares a common thread of Japanese-inspired minimalistic yet inviting decor, featuring clean lines, natural light, alongside a touch local influence, and Parisian charm to create a serene, stylish and relaxing atmosphere.
Serving exceptional coffee that is rich, flavourful, and smooth, the heart of Café Kitsuné lies its commitment to serving exceptional coffee and top-graded Japanese matcha, and even trending blends like strawberry-milk matcha. They also serve a delicious selection of pastries, and Japanese sandwiches made with thick, bouncy milk bread. Their all-day brunch menu is perfect for a leisurely meal, while their afternoon tea offerings provide a delightful indulgence.
