Riyadh is full of outdoor restaurants, but a rooftop terrace quite literally takes things to new heights. With the city’s skyline packed with stunning skyscrapers which are lit up at night like twinkling stars, there’s a lot to take in – and no better place to do it than outside in the fresh air.
Even better, with such a wide range of restaurants operating across Riyadh, there’s no need to spend a pretty penny to get the perfect view. There are several splurge-worthy spots in the city, but the views are just as wonderful at some of the more budget options.
Step outside on a cool evening and look out over the city like you’re a superhero saving the planet. These are the best rooftop terraces in Riyadh.
Farzi Café
Looking out over Boulevard Riyadh on one side and the historical Diriyah district on the other, Farzi Café’s cosy, low-lit rooftop terrace offers a mix of intimate tables for couples and plush sofas for groups. The self-described “spice bistro” serves up a contemporary take on traditional Indian cuisine, with modern twists on dishes like chilli paneer (served in a bao bun with soy fries) and mutton seekh kebab (tossed with cheese, cream and served with mini mint parathas).
In the winter months, patio heaters are wheeled out to keep guests warm – but if you’re looking to truly turn up the temperature, try the super-spicy and tender wagyu tikka masala or the tandoori pot roast lamb chops with mint chutney and caramelised onion.
Open Sat-Wed noon-2.30am, Thu and Fri noon-3am. The Residence, Hittin, farzicafe.com (9200 18177).
Lenôtre
A great spot to guzzle down some coffee and sample fine French patisserie day or night, the upmarket terrace at Centria Mall’s Lenôtre is perched just above Riyadh’s central Olaya Street. Expect up-close views of the iconic Al Faisaliah tower with its suspended orb and the renaissance-style architecture of the neighbouring five-star Narcissus Hotel.
Alternatively, gawp at the luxury shoppers streaming out the mall entrance below carrying bags branded with everything from Gucci to Dolce & Gabbana after a visit to the city’s home of high fashion. Be sure to try the hot chocolate (served with vanilla ice cream) – it’s an appropriately rich treat.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-midnight, Fri 4pm-12.30am. Centria Mall, Olaya St, Olaya, centria.com.sa (011 279 1108).
Lusin
Trendy Armenian eatery Lusin has long been a Riyadh foodie favourite, with a menu that prides itself on authenticity through dishes like borsch soup (that’s beetroot with minced meat, halloumi and spices) or jingalov bread stuffed with fresh spinach, lettuce, spring onions, dill and coriander.
Yet while the interiors are elegant and moody, those venturing outside are in for a treat. Tucked next to Lenôtra in Centria Mall, the terrace has ample seating and – due to the breeze from Olaya Street below – isn’t too warm even in the height of summer. The true secret is that there’s a hidden narrow section of the balcony just away from the main area, so if you’re looking for more of an intimate dinner, be sure to snag a spot here. Although Lusin has branches all around Riyadh which are heralded for their cuisine, this is by far the best for views.
Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight, Thu noon.12.30am, Fri 12.30pm-12.30am. Centria Mall, Olaya St, Olaya, lusinrestaurant.com (9200 02690).
Ritage Garden
The bright lights of King Abdullah Financial District’s skyline are stunning enough from the main road, but Ritage Garden at Riyadh Park – part of a village of top dining spots like L’ETO and BRISKET – has the ideal vantage point. It’s not too close, yet it’s not too far, which means you can snap those selfies to your heart’s content while surrounded by lush greenery.
The man behind the oven, the much lauded Maroun Chedid of MBC’s Top Chef Middle East, promises “unexpectedly playful” dishes which highlight seasonal Mediterranean ingredients amid a “whimsical atmosphere”. That means tucking in to everything from shareable tapas (we’re big fans of the chickpeas in two textures with extra virgin olive oil) to classically refreshing burrata salads and fresh linguine with selections of seafood. With such captivating views over one of the most modern areas in the city, we wouldn’t blame you if you stayed for dessert.
Sat-Thu 8am-midnight, Fri 1pm-midnight. Riyadh Park, Northern Ring Branch Rd, Al Aqiq, marounchedid.com (011 230 4040).
