Riyadh’s dining scene has rapidly evolved into one of the most exciting in the Middle East with some of the best restaurants, positioning the Saudi capital as a global food destination. From luxury fine dining restaurants led by internationally acclaimed chefs to homegrown concepts celebrating authentic Saudi flavours, the city offers a diverse culinary landscape to suit every taste and occasion. High-end Japanese, Italian, French, and contemporary fusion restaurants sit alongside long-standing local favourites, creating a dynamic mix that reflects Riyadh’s cultural growth and modern ambition. Whether it’s top tier fine dining, trendy new openings, or iconic institutions loved by locals, Riyadh delivers an exceptional range of options.
This guide to the best restaurants in Riyadh highlights the city’s most talked-about dining destinations, offering a curated look at where to eat in Saudi Arabia’s vibrant and ever-expanding culinary capital.
Aseeb
Aseeb is all about celebrating Najdi culture. From the off, the charming team will meet guests at the door and guide them upstairs to a super chic restaurant. Aseeb offers a selection of seating options from a formally laid table, a majlis-style seating to the traditional dining style: seated on the floor. The traditionally dressed team offers dates and Saudi coffee before every meal, capturing the essence of Saudi hospitality. The menu features dishes of classic Najdi cuisine, is full of flavour and spice such as the chicken mubahar rice flavoured with their special spices, and the desserts are just as impressive, with a decadent mini cheese and honey sambosa.
Daily 6:30AM – 12AM, Alyasmin, Riyadh, aseeb.com.sa, +966 9200 28226
Carbone
Carbone is an Italian-American restaurant created by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi and Jeff Zalaznick, transported to Riyadh all the way from New York. The restaurant pays homage to the essence of the great Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20th century in New York, where delicious, exceptionally well-prepared food was served in settings that were simultaneously elegant, comfortable and unpretentious. The food nods to that same history, but takes its culinary cues from the great talents and techniques of the present and of the future. Familiar dishes like Seafood Salad, Linguini Vongole, Lobster Fra Diavola, Chicken Scarpariello and Veal Parmesan elevated to a new level.
Sun – Thurs 5PM – 12AM, Fri & Sat 1PM – 12AM, 4248 Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road, Ar Rabi, Riyadh, carboneksa.com, +966 11 829 0919
Coya
Coya brings the spirit of Peru to Riyadh, inviting guests into a world inspired by the flavours and colours of Incan heritage and Latin American culture. The elevated Latin menu, lively vibe and resident DJs make COYA an easy choice for a fun night out. The buzzy Peruvian spot opened in Riyadh in spring 2022, and it has since become a go-to restaurant for many, with tables consistently crammed with friends, couples and even families. The menu is primarily focused on tapas and sharing plates so guests can enjoy a vast variety of Peruvian cuisine through little bites. COYA is a wonderful spot to check out with the crew while dressed in the finest outfits.
Sat – Wed 12PM – 12AM, Thurs & Fri 1PM – 1AM, 8710 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, 4237, Riyadh, coyarestaurant.com , +966 9200 10352
Em Sherif Café
Discover the warmth of Lebanese hospitality at Em Sherif Café, a quaint retreat nestled in the heart of the city. The café is an all day haven to indulge in creations inspired by family traditions and flavors while embracing a contemporary flair and spirit. In the cozy embrace of the café, indulge in moments of simplicity and gatherings while relishing delectable dishes that pay homage to the rich tapestry of Lebanese rituals, favorites and tastes.
Sat – Wed 10AM – 11:45PM, Thurs & Fri 10AM – 12:45AM, Al Takhassousi, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh, @emsherifcafeksa, +966 9200 17617
Il Baretto
Il Baretto is located in the heart of KAFD. Since its opening in November 2021, it has built its reputation with a simple and authentic Italian menu which draws influence from the specialty dishes and produce of regional Italy. The menu combines Italian favorites including the popular Veal Milanese and Salt Baked Seabass, with modern classics such as Lobster Linguine and wild Seabass Carpaccio. The northern Italian influenced pizza which is cooked in an open wood burning oven is not to be missed.
Sun – Thurs 11AM – 12AM, Fri & Sat 12:30PM – 12AM, KAFD 5.08 KAFD, 2822 – 6591, Riyadh, ilbaretto.sa, +966 9200 12508
KAYZŌ
Located in Oud Square in the Diplomatic Quarter, Kayzo is all about contemporary Japanese cooking with an international twist. The name is derived from two Japanese words meaning volcano and ocean. This plays into the East-meets-West fusion and merging various influences in one cool space. The casual contemporary dining concept is inspired by Japanese street food artisans. The menu features classic Japanese favourites including sushi, gyoza and edamame, with the addition of international dishes such as a Japanese-flavoured fish burger.
Sat – Wed 1PM – 12AM, Thurs & Fri 1PM – 1AM, Prince Musaid bin Abdulaziz bin Jalawi Street, As Sulimaniyah، District، 8273, Riyadh, kayzo.com, +966 9200 14156
Kuuru
Kuuru is where Japanese and Peruvian cuisines meld to form an authentic new culinary experience known as Nikkei cooking. Theatrical, colourful and dramatically delicious, this is fresh, modern luxury dining, inspired by tradition and waiting to be discovered. Embark on a culinary journey that harmoniously combines the vibrant flavors of Peru with the precision and artistry of Japanese culinary. Their must try dishes include the Kuuru ceviche featuring smoked corn, Naka truffle with premium salmon belly, Concha Trufada made with fresh scallops and a succulent Wagyu A Lo Pobre topped with quail egg.
Sat – Wed 12PM – 11:30PM, Thurs & Fri 12PM – 12:30AM, KAFD 3.05 building,305, Al Aqiq, Riyadh, kuururestaurant.com, +966 9200 35739
La Petite Maison Riyadh
Nestled in the vibrant Al Olaya district, La Petite Maison, a French restaurant in Riyadh, transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Côte d’Azur. Step into a gastronomic journey filled with light and intensely flavored Riviera-inspired dishes, crafted using the finest ingredients and prepared à-la-minute. Guests can immerse in the elegance and energy of the Belle Époque, complemented by bold contemporary artworks and captivating decor. Sip on artfully crafted mocktails at the classic harlequin-mirrored bar while the enchanting terrace welcomes visitors with its vibrant Mediterranean hues and lively atmosphere. From the delectable escargots to the savory poulet and delicate burrata, every dish highlights LPM’s focus on quality and flavor.
Sun – Wed 12:30PM – 3:30PM & 6:30PM – 11:30PM, Thurs 12:30PM – 4PM & 6:30PM – 11:30PM, Fri & Sat 1PM – 4PM & 6:30PM – 11:30PM, Al Motassem Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh, lpmrestaurants.com, +966 9200 11794
MAMO Michelangelo
This little piece of Provence in Saudi Arabia is a popular branch of the Michelangelo restaurant that Italian chef Mamo started in Southern France and is now at home in the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah. His Mediterranean style and passion for food reflects in his dishes, providing a special authentic experience. Amid the lemon trees, beneath terracotta-painted arches, waiters serve a variety of generous authentic dishes, such as creamy Burrata from Napoli, lamb shoulder perfectly cooked in the wood fired oven, delicious chicken and signature dishes such as truffle focaccia and truffle raviolinis.
Sun – Wed 12:30PM – 3:30PM & 7:30PM – 12AM, Thurs – Sat 12:30PM – 4:30PM & 7:30PM – 12AM, King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh, mamo-michelangelo.com, +966 9200 00874
Myazu
Myazu, Riyadh’s infamous homegrown hotspot, is next-level Japanese food in a dramatically lit, contemporary Zen space designed by Noriyoshi Muramatsu. This spot highlights contemporary culinary art rooted in Japanese culture, blended with the most sophisticated international cuisine influences. Dishes from the sushi counter and robata grill range from the light marinated yellowtail sashimi with ponzu dressing to the Wagyu sando with katsu sauce. The mushroom takikomi-gohan, its signature rice dish cooked in a clay pot, is comfort food at its most luxurious.
Sat – Wed 1PM – 12AM, Thurs & Fri 1PM – 1AM, Musad Bin Jalawi, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, myazu.com, +966 9200 09686
Nozomi
Nozomi is Riyadh’s go-to spot for modern Japanese cuisine. Frequented by top tier celebrities including Cristiano Ronaldo, Nozomi is among the best restaurants in the city with delectable food, pristine ambience and immaculate energy. The room is low-lit and offers a chic stage for precision plates. The menu includes small dishes, sashimi, skewers and more. The signature dishes include Marinated Yellowtail, Seared Salmon Tataki and Wagyu Beef Tataki. Head over to Nozomi for an unforgettable meal, guaranteeing guests to return for more.
Daily 1PM – 1AM, Century Corner, 7448 King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, 4255, Riyadh, nozomiksa.co, +966 9200 11923
Robata
Hailing from the culinary traditions of the Ainu people of Hokkaido, the Robatayaki, the customary ‘fireside cooking’, is a timeless Japanese creation whose humbled simplicity within the culinary world has now arrived in Riyadh, with Robata. Located at The Canopy, boasting an incredible and unmissable al fresco terrace, guests can enjoy a lively ambiance, as dance music plays in the background and the chefs can be seen grilling away through the glass wall. Expect flavourful, modern Japanese dishes paired with carefully sourced ingredients, such as a juicy Angus beef fillet, Gulf prawns with a kimchi sauce and plenty of vegetarian options like portobello mushroom in a ponzu marinade.
Sat – Wed 1PM – 12AM, Thurs & Fri 1PM – 1AM, The Canopy, Riyadh, robatasaudi.com, +966 9200 05613
Thara
Thara may be fairly modern on the outside, but on the inside, the decor replicates classic Najdi architecture. Enter through heavy wooden doors, walk past sand blown walls before sitting down to enjoy a modern approach to traditional Saudi cuisine and other dishes from across the Middle East. The food is prepared with a degree of refinement, delivering authentic flavors and textures, focusing on quality in every bite. The likes of machboos, jareesh and saleeq adorn the menu. Guests can also indulge in unique delicacies such as the crispy sambosa pastries filled with camel meat.
Sat – Wed 12PM – 11:30PM, Thurs 12PM – 12:30AM, Fri 1PM – 12:30AM, Abi Bakr As Siddiq Branch Rd, An Narjis, Riyadh, @thara_saudi, +966 55 454 0039
The Globe
Dining sensation located in the spectacular golden sphere The Globe is one of the most unique and sought-after restaurants in Riyadh. Located in the spectacular golden sphere that tops Al Faisaliah Tower, this dining destination offers panoramic views of the city. The menu features decadent dishes including a hamour in a herb crust and white beans paired with a citrus beurre blanc or the more classical navarin-styled pressed lamb shoulder. Within this dramatic three-story dome, delicious modern European cuisine and world-class service come together to create an unmatched, fine dining experience.
Sun – Thurs 7PM – 11:30PM, Fri & Sat 3PM – 6PM & 8PM – 11:30PM, Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh, mandarinoriental.com , +966 11 273 2005
The Rubi Room at Hōchō
Tucked away within Hōchō, in the luxurious VIA Riyadh shopping mall, The Rubi Room is where Chef Hassan’s imagination runs free. The omakase-style menu serves approximately 19 guests and is made up of dishes that will certainly create intrigue. Halal Kobe beef is at the heart of the menu, with various preparations and cuts appearing throughout. Dishes are created with numerous processes and techniques, while being playful in parts. While the team comprehensively explains the dishes, guests will still leave here in a sense of wonder.
Sat – Wed 3PM – 12AM, Thurs & Fri 3PM – 1AM, VIA Riyadh, 8425 Makkah Al Mukarramah Rd, Al Hada, Riyadh, hocho.info, +966 53 992 2001
Zuma
Zuma has landed in Riyadh, bringing the same magnetic glamour to the Saudi capital as its ultra-trendy siblings in places like London, Dubai, Bodrum and Mykonos. Occupying a sleek, soaring space in King Abdullah Financial District, the perpetually packed dining room is a showstopper, flanked with sweeping staircases, glowing amber walls and a head-turning mix of wood and stone. The izakaya-style menu is equally as dramatic: miso-marinated black cod that melts like butter, rock shrimp tempura and Riyadh exclusives like yuzu-drizzled lobster carpaccio and beef gyoza stuffed with earthy seasonal mushrooms. Upstairs, the glowing bar, flanked by suspended glassware, shakes up zero per cent cocktails for the baying crowds as they wait for tables, try the Rikka Tonic for a zingy burst of yuzu and grapefruit, or the strawberry-sweet Ozaka Spritz.
Daily 12PM – 1AM, Metro Blvd, Al Aqiq, Riyadh, zumarestaurant.com, +966 9200 14597
