Riyadh’s residents have high expectations and discerning tastes, and the city's dining scene has taken note – cue the rustling up of exciting dishes influenced by global food trends and classic flavours.
With so much to see and do in Riyadh, from outdoor adventures to culture and events, it can be easy to relegate your meals to a rushed experience sandwiched between fun experiences. But let the capital’s dining scene take the lead during your exploration of the city – lavish time and attention on where you want to eat after a busy day of sightseeing.
Whatever your taste, food style or dietary requirements – a delightful diner, an elegant sushi restaurant, or a beloved local bakery – Riyadh has compelling contenders to explore. These are our favourite places to eat in Riyadh.
1. MYAZU
Sushi lovers can enjoy a fresh taste of the sea at MYAZU, an exceptional fine-dining restaurant that blends contemporary Japanese flavours with international influences. Even those who are new to sushi should give it a try – the food is designed to tickle even the most conservative taste buds.
Each mouth-watering dish is carefully crafted and the sashimi and maki are top quality. The menu is extensive – miso soup, crispy short ribs, oysters tempura, wagyu croquettes, and lobster brioche are just some of the favourites at this establishment, which has outposts in Riyadh and Jeddah.
If you’re not sure where to start or are celebrating a special occasion, ask one of the incredible servers for their recommendations. MYAZU also has gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant was conceptualised by Noriyoshi Muramatsu, a leading Japanese designer, and has a luxurious feel with cosy, intimate lighting.
2. Cipriani
Cipriani’s outpost in Riyadh offers a taste of Venice. Murano glass chandeliers, a blue and white terrazzo patterned floor, high gloss oak tables and bespoke blue leather chairs are all part of the handsome décor. Start with a Pappa al Pomodoro, wild Argentinian prawns carpaccio, or thinly sliced veal with tonnato sauce, before diving into steamed Chilean sea bass or a Wagyu strip loin.
Be sure to leave room for some of the incredible desserts Cipriani’s is known for – the vanilla meringue cake is a favourite for good reason.
3. La Petite Maison
A visit to La Petite Maison, fondly referred to by locals as “LPM”, is all about the magic that happens when great food and great people gather together. The pared-down backdrop reminiscent of the French Riviera joyously celebrates the flavours of Southern France. The light colour palette, fine linens and marble are juxtaposed with brilliant, bold colours to warm up your soul, while music wafts through the rooms riffing on modern and timeless classics to create a wonderful atmosphere.
LPM is noted for its unique mocktails – menthe à l’eau Fizz, pomme-basilic, and soleil – and trusted sources claim the tomatini is legendary. A la carte dishes include salade d’endives au gorgonzola, terrine de foie gras, carpaccio de boeuf and caviar Kristal, while Déjeuner D'Affaires has a wide selection of starters and main courses consisting of duck confit, grilled swordfish and marinated lamb cutlets. If you’re craving a little sweetness, the dessert menu is equally wonderful and worth indulging.
4. Kuuru
The complex flavours of Peru and the spirit of Nikkei come alive at Kuuru, which is part of the famed Leylati Group. The luxury dining space inspired by Japanese culture and Peruvian accents – signature textures and materials – hints at what you can expect on a remarkable multi-sensory adventure.
The memorable food will ensure you make a return visit. Indulgent and vibrant morsels include fresh tuna toast with Peruvian corn tortilla, nori taco, lobster salad, Kuuru wagyu beef slider, a great selection of nigiri – a crash course in exciting and delicious food. Work your way through the delicious mocktail menu as you eat before indulging in the sweetest of treats to round out your meal. With outposts in both Riyadh and Jeddah, you can enjoy delicious meals as you journey around the Kingdom.
5. Marble
Homegrown wonder Marble is led by self-taught head chef Abdulrahman Alsowailem, whose passion lies in showcasing different cuts of premium beef. The brilliance of this restaurant is reflected in the popularity of the smoked brisket, the glorious short ribs, and the famed Marble Burger that brings depths of flavour to high-quality ingredients. Artisanal sauces pair brilliantly with the elite cuts of meat and it’s this simplicity that brings unexpected sophistication to a restaurant with such a singular focus. Marble is a destination for discerning travellers seeking excellence in its purest flavoured-focused form.
6. Sadelle’s
A touch of classic New York City dining landed in Riyadh with the opening of Sadelle’s, and the food scene is all the better for it. Staying true to its Big Apple roots, there are excellent classics such as blueberry pancakes and every kind of egg dish (some with a side of caviar if you’re feeling flush) – it’s become a go-to spot for brunch in Riyadh in record time.
The dinner menu is no slouch either and boasts diner favourites such as bolognese, pizza, steak and a range of sandwiches and salads that are both mouthwatering and satisfying. Comfort food never tasted so good.
7. Kimono
Kimono revolutionises Japanese gastronomy by innovating beyond the typical sushi, nigiri, and raw dishes one might expect. Premium ingredients make Kimono a true culinary innovator among Saudi Arabia’s cosmopolitan dining scene. Funky street food vibes run through the restaurant, providing the colourful backdrop to a imaginative menu. Chef Toshiyuki Okubo’s menu is defined by premium ingredients, from the richness of the yaki soba to the variety of maki sushi. If you’ve ever enjoyed the bright lights of Tokyo, then Kimono is the destination for you.
8. Najd Village
With several outposts across the city, Najd Village serves up authentic Saudi food – special hibiscus tea, chicken and shrimp kabsa, naimi badya, lamb liver, and vegetable and lamb stew – in an enchanting Bedouin setting. If you’re dining as a group, why not opt for a platter and get a real insight into the delicious local food that is so popular here. Najd Village is also a great option for visitors on a budget – delicious food in a lovely setting with very reasonable prices.
9. Breakfast bites we love
At the trendy Arcomi, you can have a traditional Arabic breakfast or wolf down croissants, knafeh, or royal scones with vanilla mousse and raspberry jam – pair it with equally great coffee. Lunch Room is a great place to kick start a tasty day with torched sweet cherry tomatoes and Egyptian domiati cheese, soft taco scramble, mushroom and spinach arancini, and Korean tostadas.
