Wondering where the best restaurants in Riyadh are? We have the question answered in delicious detail.
Choosing where to eat out in the Saudi capital is not a decision to be taken lightly, especially in a city filled with amazing restaurants and cafés and more new ones opening at a thrilling pace. We want you to be able to select the top restaurants in Riyadh that suit your every craving, mood and location each time you dine out. In short, we want you to choose from Riyadh’s best restaurants.
Whether you like Indian or Italian, breakfast or burgers, we want you to eat out and have an absolutely amazing time doing so.
That’s why we take great pride in presenting you with this list of the very best restaurants in Riyadh. This is Time Out’s definitive guide to the top places to eat out in the Saudi capital, chosen after 12 months of independent and anonymous reviewing by our dedicated team where we pay our way every single time.
We’ve been doing this for 20 years across the region so we know a thing or two about what makes an eatery worth your money, time and stomach real estate.
For the first time ever, Time Out’s guide to Riyadh’s best restaurants is issued following the Time Out Riyadh Restaurant Awards 2022, in association with PepsiCo. These are the top places that you need to chow down at. What are you waiting for? You don’t need a further invitation. It’s time to dig in at the best Riyadh restaurants.
Jump to:
REGIONAL
THEMED
GRAND PRIX
REGIONAL AWARDS
Best Asian Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
Yauatcha
There’s dim sum, and then there’s dim sum from a world-renowned team with fingers in every major global culinary scene. Yauatcha is from the group who created Hakkasan, and the experience shows. Set in the upper portions of Riyadh’s Mode Al Faisaliah shopping mall, this Al Olaya eatery is a destination. The outdoor terrace is a super spot for looking out over the city while you sip jasmine tea and pick your way through an assortment of small-but-mighty bites.
While the menu extends to a few bigger dishes, the emphasis is firmly on that trademark dim sum and sharing-style plates, and we certainly have no complaints. This is a meal you won’t forget quickly, no matter how you slice it. Time to start working your way through the menu.
Al Olaya, yauatcha.com (92 000 6555).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
BB Social
Born in Dubai and now bringing bites, bao, bowls, barbecue and big flavours to Riyadh, BB Social is a modern Asian fusion spot keeping things interesting. By that we mean whole soft-shell crab bao and baonut (a bao-doughnut hybrid) interesting. The descriptions and colourful plates alone appeal to the senses, but there’s no better way to experience them by tasting the dishes. No matter what you’re craving, call up your friends and family and say “Meet me @ BB”, just like the sign says at the Huna Takhassusi eatery.
Huna Takhassusi, Panorama Mall, instagram.com/bbsaudi (11 215 6000).
Billionaire
Most restaurants promise a unique dining experience, but few deliver something as special as Billionaire with its dinner-and-a-show concept. It’s one of the best restaurants in Riyadh because it understands people remember the experience as much as the food. With top live acts and a menu of Asian bites that don’t play second fiddle to the performances, it’s a hit. The restaurant is bold, it’s flashy and it brings something new each time while still maintaining a high standard. You could say that Billionaire is one in a billion.
As Sulimaniyah, billionairesociety.com (92 001 1916).
For the top ten best Asian restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best European Restaurants in Riyadh
Winner
LPM
We know that Riyadh has world-class restaurants, and one that definitely proves those points is LPM. The fine-dining French venue opened in the Saudi capital to much fanfare and has held its high standard ever since. The food and ambience are so on brand, you’ll feel like you’re in the Southern France, without ever setting foot on a plane. Your feet remain firmly in An Olaya, but the top Riyadh restaurant transports diners.
Whether you’re on the terrace experiencing its fresh, flavourful version of Mediterranean micro cuisine or inside surrounded by the colourful art eating equally colourful dishes, you will likely leave very, very well fed. This is not just the delicious French cuisine you know it, but something that is wholly LPM’s thanks to its elements of Niçoise food and its lighter touch on butter. Overall, it’s a top-rated experience that you will not forget. Bon appétit.
Al Olaya, lpmrestaurants.com/riyadh (920 011 794).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Meraki
There are many European eateries that are up there on the best restaurants in Riyadh list. When you want to go to a great Greek venue, or just a great European restaurant for that matter, make your way to Meraki’s light-filled space. The stylish spot provides modern dishes of Greek favourites and a Mykonos vibe in the heart of the city, in one of the most iconic hotels.
Al Faisaliah Hotel, instagram.com/merakiriyadh (92 000 1050).
Villa Palma
Munch your way across the Mediterranean without leaving your comfortable seat at Villa Palma in the heart of the city. Your culinary journey can see you travel across Greece, Italy, Spain and the South of France with every mouthful. The Med vibes are enhanced with the sun-drenched interiors and picturesque courtyard.
As Sulimaniyah, villapalma.co (920 035 500).
For the top ten best European restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Indian Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
Maharaja East by Vineet
The Vineet behind this popular Indian restaurant is award-winning chef Vineet Bhatia. At this As Sulimaniyah spot, the menu celebrates local produce merged with traditional cooking techniques with modern touches. The result is smashing flavours with equally show-stopping spice combinations.
Whether you’re a meat-eater or a veggie, there’s something for you. And if it’s classic Indian plates you’re after, get ready to dig into tandoor grills, curries, stews, biryanis and other rice dishes. Let’s not forget the breads and desserts.
As Sulimaniyah, maharajaeast.com (011 464 6161).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Mohalla
India has such a colourful, flavourful variety of cuisines and dishes. Luckily for us, we can sample our way through many of them at Mohalla. The Dubai restaurant has expanded to Riyadh with a cool, casual eatery in The Esplanade and is set on serving hungry customers Indian street food with inventive twists. Order what sounds good for the table and dig in. You won’t be disappointed.
The Esplanade, instagram.com/mohallaksa (055 709 1122).
RUHI Indian Cuisine
From one place rich in history to another, diners at RUHI get to experience the taste and traditions of India in the heart of Riyadh. The menu is a celebration of classic Indian dishes fused with modern touches, and that celebratory mood extends to the welcoming space from the music to the minutiae of the venue. There’s something interesting at every turn, particularly on your plate.
The Zone, ruhi.com.sa (011 208 0962).
For the top ten best Indian restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Italian Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
Il Baretto
This King Abdullah Financial District eatery describes itself as a “simple, authentic Italian restaurant in Riyadh”. The venue perfectly encapsulates how simple certainly isn’t boring. Il Baretto was the first restaurant to open in the KAFD district and it definitely set the bar very high. With its slick and professional service, piano-laden atmosphere and carefully crafted menu of Italian classics, it’s clear that the restaurant game is a tune the team behind Il Baretto know off by heart.
The atmosphere never misses a beat, either. The restaurant is frequently in full swing a variety of diners all eager to enjoy as much as possible, and nothing ever slumps. If you’re after an Italian eatery that’s a step above the rest, it’s time to say “buona sera”, or good evening, to Il Baretto. It’s one of the best restaurants in Riyadh.
KAFD, ilbaretto.sa (92 001 2508).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Annabella Ristorante Italiano
Not all of us have an Italian nonna (grandmother) at home to make simply sublime Italian dishes that have been passed down from one generation to the next. But, what we do have is Annabella Ristorante Italiano. The relaxed, homey spot wants diners to all have that experience and is set to provide it with a family-style dining event in a street-inspired venue complete with a leafy terrace.
Levels Mall, Northern Ring Branch Road, instagram.com/annabellaksa (050 373 8830).
Azzurro
There are not many places in Riyadh, or the GCC for that matter, where you can enjoy the sparkling views of chandeliers and an expansive indoor swimming pool as you savour Sardinian flavours. That is part of what makes Azzurro so special. Add in top-notch service and a focus on seasonality and the best of ingredients, and Azzurro is anything but your average Italian. This is somewhere to go for a special occasion, or any time you want to familiarise yourself with a part of Italy not often represented on menus as wholly as it is here.
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Al Hada, ritzcarlton.com (011 802 8333).
For the top ten best Italian restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Japanese Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
ROKA
There’s a reason ROKA is so popular. Top-rated robata grills plus superb sushi and sashimi are just the start. You cannot forget about the decadent desserts. ROKA rocked up to trendy As Sulimaniyah and has created many fans in Riyadh since the start with its winning menu and mocktail mixology as the busy dining room shows.
Signatures are signatures for a reason, highlighting tried-and-tested recipes that appeal as much as the sharing-style snacks. Even the seemingly simplest of dishes has refinement, yet there is also a sense of playfulness. It’s a special combo. There isn’t a bad seat in the house. Book in, walk in, just go in and get ready to eat.
As Sulimaniyah, rokarestaurant.com (92 001 2327).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Myazu
When we’re talking about best restaurants in Riyadh for Japanese food, Myazu is one of the must-try spots in the Saudi capital. It has described itself as “the land of plenty” and it certainly rings true, especially when it comes to modern Japanese flavours. There’s plenty to admire as well as eat from the artful presentation of dishes to the dramatic interiors and exteriors. It’s a feast for all senses.
As Sulimaniyah, myazu.com (092 000 9686).
Yokari
Everything about Yokari is polished from its plates to its presentation to the picture-perfect property. The fine-dining Japanese restaurant in Riyadh wants to create a world and it definitely does so with not a detail overlooked from its sushi to the fusion flavours. Are you ready to step inside, chopsticks in hand?
Centria Mall, Al Olaya, yokari.com (011 288 6999).
For the top ten best Japanese restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Latin American Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
COYA
COYA needs no introduction. Even being a relative newbie to the Saudi capital, the eatery made an impression as it danced its way to As Sulimaniyah from the very first step. The vibey atmosphere continues throughout the experience whether you’re in the dining room or you have a seat on the sprawling terrace.
COYA is a celebration all around, particularly of modern Peruvian flavours. The vibrant dishes are enhanced by the music, colourful art and upbeat mood of fellow diners and staff. If you’re feeling down, a trip to COYA will likely leave you leaving with a spring in your step and your stomach filled.
As Sulimaniyah, coyarestaurant.com (92 001 0352).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Don Ruben’s Mexican Restaurant
It’s time to dig in at Don Ruben’s Mexican Restaurant. The Diplomatic Quarter eatery is all about bringing authentic flavours of Mexico to diners in the Saudi capital. It’s clearly a fan-favourite thanks to a fun, easygoing atmosphere, big plates and bigger flavours. Don’t wait until Taco Tuesday to head here. Say “hola” to the eatery any day of the week, especially when there are burritos, fries and guacamole to be had.
Diplomatic Quarter, instagram.com/donrubens.sa (050 292 9307).
Hotel Cartagena
You don’t need us to tell you that U Walk has some of the top restaurants in Riyadh. Hotel Cartagena has created its own identity with its Colombian fusion cuisine. Additionally, it is probably one of the most colourful restaurants in the city, if not in KSA. The plates, mood and staff are as joyful as the décor, making this a not-to-be-missed dining experience. Are you ready to check in?
U Walk. instagram.com/hotelcartagenariyadh (9200 33 801).
For the best Latin American restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
Shababïk
Those who love Lebanese flavours are likely familiar with Shababïk. It’s one of the best restaurants in Riyadh. Take a seat at one of the plush, brightly coloured chairs in the dining room and get ready to feast of fresh flavours.
Order for the table and be sure to sample a bit of everything because there really isn’t a ho-hum dish at this As Sulimaniyah spot. No matter the time of day, Shababïk is there to serve with breakfast, lunch, dinner or when you’re looking for some top Lebanese flavours late in the night.
As Sulimaniyah, instagram.com/shababikksa (92 000 3945).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Beit Omar
Some of the best Riyadh restaurants are in Al Olaya, but Beit Omar brings something different to the table, and that is well-priced Arabic specialties. Have some hot appetisers, go for grills, feast on fattah or devour desserts. Just don’t miss out. You can enjoyably eat your way through the menu at the affordable eatery. With a lively ambience and approachable staff, it is a top Riyadh restaurant that you will want to visit on repeat.
Al Olaya (011 279 0030).
Lusin
Look to Lusin the next time you want to eat Armenian cuisine in a fine-dining but approachable atmosphere. The local favourite doesn’t need much of an introduction thanks to flavours that shine along with hospitable staff. The team is always on hand whether you’re visiting for your first time or fifteenth. Signature dishes are in fact signatures for a reason, but each plate on the full menu is dynamite in its own way. So, dig in.
Centria Mall, lusinrestaurant.com.
For the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best North American Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
OAK Smokehouse
When a place asks “Did you get your meat today?” it grabs the attention of carnivores, or anyone, really. Oak Smokehouse is a barbecue restaurant in Alyasmin that proudly says it is “helping meat-lovers satisfy their cravings”. The motto is bold and so are the flavours.
All the meats are smoked on firewood and come in proper, hearty portions with super saucy sides. This is what comfort food is all about with mac ‘n cheese, burgers and honking grilled platters set in front of you. Don’t be afraid to dig in. In fact, it’s actively encouraged. Put a bib on and don’t be shy about getting a little messy. It’s part of the experience. What are you waiting for?
Alyasmin, instagram.com/oak_saudi (011 217 7787).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Buttermilk
Saudi hospitality is unrivalled. Similarly, the Southern USA is also known for its warm welcomes. Combine the two together and you get a café and bakery that is big on ambience, as well as portions. Like the name references, this striking spot in An Nakheel celebrates the cuisine of the Southern US where buttermilk is a popular ingredient: think fried chicken and waffles, fried green tomatoes and chowder. There is certainly nothing sour about this spot.
An Nakheel, instagram.com/buttermilk.sa (055 627 9170).
Smokey Beards Q
Hop on over to Hittin the next time you’re searching for smoky, sticky and sweet barbecue at one of the best Riyadh restaurants for North American fare. The spot says it’s a “buzzing, no-frills, Texas-style smokehouse” and we’re not going to argue with that. It does everything it says on the tin and smashes it out of the park. Pass the brisket, please.
Hittin, instagram.com/smokeybeardsq, smokeybeardsq.com (053 470 0086).
For the best North American restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Saudi Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
Suhail
Suhail is synonymous with Saudi cuisine. Whether you’re familiar with signature flavours of the Kingdom or are looking for a very moreish introduction, the An Nakheel venue has you covered. The eatery serves traditional home-style food in an elevated-but-approachable way. And it has Saudi hospitality in spades.
As the restaurant explains, “Suhail” is the name of Arabs’ most famous and brightest shining star, and this is one spot that shines bright, and shows no signs of fading. Just ask happy patrons.
An Nakheel, suhailrestaurant.com (92 000 2690).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Najd Village
After the best restaurants in Riyadh to get a taste of local flavours and Saudi hospitality and the Kingdom’s rich heritage? Enter Najd Village. No, really, go to the restaurant now. The eatery prides itself on serving authentic Saudi dishes, specifically Najd cuisine, in a traditional setting. There are locations across the capital. Whether you’re a local, new resident or just visiting, it’s a dining experience with a difference.
Alyasmin, najdvillage.com (92 003 3511).
Takya
Take yourself and your friends and family to Takya for terrific Saudi flavours today. It is one of the top places for Saudi food in Riyadh. It’s dedicated to sharing traditional dishes of the Kingdom, but with a modern twist. You could even call it Saudi fusion cuisine. The key takeaway is that you’re getting top local flavours at great prices.
As Sulimaniyah, instagram.com/takya_sa (055 040 2000).
For the best Saudi restaurants in Riyadh click here.
THEMED AWARDS
Best Afternoon Tea in Riyadh
WINNER
Chorisia Lounge afternoon tea
Afternoon tea is as much about the experience and ritual as it is the food and hot drinks. Chorisia Lounge certainly gets this, just like it also gets that those bites might be small but they can still provide big taste.
Make a delightful afternoon of sipping teas and working your way through the sweets and savouries on the cake stand in one of the grandest venues in the city. Whether you do it once, a few times or make it a monthly habit (lucky you), the high tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh is likely one experience that will never go stale, especially when these homemade cakes and pastries are involved.
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Al Hada, ritzcarlton.com ( 011 802 8020).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
The Mansion
The words “The Mansion” spark as much interest as “afternoon tea”. This restaurant and lounge clearly has both, and doesn’t disappoint. The elegant Al Olaya eatery has a “High Tea with a twist”. Traditionalists still get their cake stand and essential components (sandwiches, scones) all freshly made to order, plus, there are customisations. What are you going to choose?
Al Olaya, instagram.com/themansion_sa, themansion.com.sa (011 293 0337).
Oplaisir
There are many top Riyadh afternoon tea spots. Oplaisir is an outstanding option. The versatile space is billed as a café, patisserie and boutique that focuses on French flavours. That winning combination translates to an afternoon tea experience that brings a certain je ne sais quoi to the traditionally British meal. It’s popular with locals and is also a must-try for visitors.
Al Mohammadiyyah, oplaisir.sa, instagram.com/oplaisir_ksa (054 006 0166).
For the top ten best afternoon teas in Riyadh click here.
Best Buffet Restaurants in Riyadh
WINNER
La Brasserie buffet
Riyadh knows its way around a good buffet, and so do its foodie residents. La Brasserie’s spread of international plates dished out in an upscale and modern environment in the Al Faisaliah Hotel set the standard. Every detail appears to be thought of with consideration from the interactive stations to the oh-so-tempting displays. We eat with our eyes first and La Brasserie definitely knows this.
Even if your eyes are bigger than your stomach, rest assured that you can always come back to try the dishes you didn’t get the chance to on your current trip. There’s nothing wrong with repeat visits. Pass the plates.
Al Faisaliah Hotel, Al Olaya, mandarinoriental.com (011 273 2005).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Al Orjouan
Ready your stomach and put your reservation in at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh for the Al Orjouan’s buffet. The all-day dining restaurant understands what makes a brilliant buffet: variety, atmosphere, something for all ages and ambience. The experience has all of that in spades, including a great mix of international and Middle Eastern flavours in a venue that will certainly not go unnoticed.
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Al Hada, ritzcarlton.com (011 802 8333).
Elements
We’re going to say it: Elements has all of the elements that make for a stellar buffet. For family feasting, it’s a good idea to head to the Four Seasons Riyadh spot for international dishes presented with aplomb and made using fresh ingredients. It’s one of the best restaurants in Riyadh for when you want to eat your way around the world in an elevated venue with friends and family. Remember that this weekend.
Kingdom Tower, Four Seasons Riyadh, Al Olaya, fourseasons.com (011 211 5500).
For the top ten best buffet restaurants in Riyadh click here.
Best Burger in Riyadh
WINNER
Section-B
Brilliant burgers in Riyadh, as well as across the Kingdom, are easy to find. So, choosing the best one is no easy feat. Whether we’re talking beef, chicken or even veggie burgers, Section-B is a home-grown hero.
The Jeddah-born eatery highlights how a proper good burger doesn’t need all the toppings in the world. It can be a paired-back thing of beauty crafted with top technique. The simple, confident menu, freshest of ingredients and listening to customers’ feedback throughout the years has resulted in burgers that keep bringing the crowds back.
Hittin, instagram.com/sectionb_sa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
GUNBUN
Even the best of burger restaurants can be formulaic with bun, patty and toppings. The clue here is in the name that GUNBUN isn’t your average Riyadh burger joint. As the restaurant proclaims, it’s “the Revolution of BUNS”, featuring what the eatery describes as “burnt dough” sandwiching a range of patties and comforting fillings. It results in something totally different that you’re not going forget – and you definitely won’t be removing this bun.
Pure Center, instagram.com/gunbun.ksa.
The California Burger
The quest to create the best burger is really an evolution, and in The California Burger’s case the journey started in 1977 with a goal to create a burger that reflected, yes, the place it’s named after. Fast forward years and hop around the world to the Kingdom, and we have a casual eatery serving fantastic “old-fashioned” burgers with fresh, quality ingredients. The formula for the burger options (complete with doubling, tripling and quadrupling patties) to the fresh fries has been perfected over the years, and it shows in each bite. Yum.
Al Malqa, instagram.com/thecaliforniaburger.
For the top ten best burgers in Riyadh click here.
Best Breakfast in Riyadh
WINNER
Flour & Firewood
If you consider breakfast the most important meal of the day then start the day right by heading to Flour & Firewood in As Sulimaniyah. The casual spot promises good vibes, good music and good food, of course, and it ticks all the boxes in our opinion.
Bread, cakes, croissants and terrific things on sourdough slices: it’s a tough pick to decide what to order first, but we aren’t complaining about it. Whether you’re a sweet, savoury, or both breakfast person, there is something for you. You might even find yourself staying for lunch and dinner.
As Sulimaniyah, flourandfirewood.com.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Bofia
Simply put, Bofia is brilliant. It is one of the top Riyadh restaurants for breakfast. All you need to do is take a quick look around for an empty table at the popular eatery to see that. It’s a relative newcomer to the Saudi capital’s dining scene but its influence is already clear. Bofia describes itself as a “social movement” and puts its signature stamp on Saudi flavours in a cool canteen environment.
An Nada, instagram.com/bofia.sa.
Chapter
If you’re game to start a new chapter of great eating, this is your place to begin your mornings. Located in Ar Rabi, the buzzy eatery is focused on the capital’s two favourite things: brunch and coffee. Diners can enjoy the venue from early until late, so even if you’re not a morning person, you can dig into breakfast plates for your first meal of the day, whether that’s a sandwich, something hot or a sweet treat.
Ar Rabi, instagram.com/chapter.sa (053 077 7316).
For the top ten best breakfasts in Riyadh click here.
Best Coffee in Riyadh
WINNER
½ Million
There’s no shortage of superb coffee places in the Spanish-latte-loving Saudi capital. With cafés around every corner and more popping up at a staggering rate, it says something when the city’s caffeinated residents return to a venue again and again.
You could even say there are about ½ Million reasons why this spot is the regular coffee shop of choice for many coffee connseiurs. It’s a home-grown brand that has expanded and expanded. It might be the coffee that brings people in, but the iced mocktails, sweets and ice cream are as considered as the caffeine choices.
Various locations, including Al Olaya. instagram.com/halfmillion_sa.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Camel Step
Step right up to one of the best Riyadh coffee shops. If it’s speciality coffee you’re after (and we know that it is) this coffee shop takes its coffee brews very seriously indeed. Hot or cold, sweetened or not, the baristas at Camel Step know their stuff and know that freshly roasted beans make the difference. What can we say? Step in and try it yourself. The dedication to roasting and sourcing is practically evident in each sip.
At Taawun, camelstep.com (092 000 0689).
Five Elephants
For a top Riyadh speciality coffee shop, Five Elephants is where to go morning, afternoon or night. Thankfully, the stylish speciality coffee house is open at all hours so coffee fans can get their caffeinated drink of choice whenever they need to refuel, whether that is with a simple specialist cuppa, bold flavoured hot beverage or refreshing mojito. Food options are as strong as the V60.
Alyasmin, mkan.me/five-elephants (055 560 1970).
For the top ten best coffee shops in Riyadh click here.
Best Dessert in Riyadh
WINNER
Cheat
The best place for a sweet treat? Or, more accurately for a sweet “cheat” as the brand likes to say. You’re looking at it in all its rich, decadent and chocolatey glory. We don’t think it’s cheating to have dessert. In fact, we think it’s wholly necessary and The Esplanade dessert café gets this.
The spot for sweet-tooths doesn’t shy away from the sugary things in life, and it has a fun, playful atmosphere that will have you reaching for a spoon from that first chocolate drip. Forget the main course and go straight to dessert here. It’s definitely not cheating.
The Esplanade, instagram.com/cheat.sa (056 572 4756).
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Chunk
For the best dessert shops in Riyadh, Chunk Bakery & Café has you sorted with its cakes, tarts, cookies and other sweet creations, including customisable options. The popular Riyadh café has been keeping things very sweet in the capital for a number of years. It’s sugar, spice and all things nice here with French-inspired desserts, perfect layers and generous portions that leave customers smiling between frosted bites.
Al Mohammadiyyah, instagram.com/hello_chunk, hellochunk.com (92 000 1382).
Lock
You could accurately say that Lock has its desserts on lock. The next time you have a hankering for something sugary and sweet, the Riyadh dessert café is ready and waiting. Specialising in pastries, chocolates and cakes, just try to leave the dessert case without ordering a boxful of elegant creations. Whether you’re after something to share or a sweet treat to enjoy solo, there should be something for you. Grab a fork.
Hittin, instagram.com/lock.sa (059 678 4717).
For the top ten best dessert cafés in Riyadh click here.
Best Pizza in Riyadh
WINNER
Blanca Pizzeria
Think that you have to go all the way to Italy to get the perfect piece of pizza or a proper pasta plate? Not so. We have the taste of Naples in our city thanks to Blanca Pizzeria. The casual As Sulimaniyah spot focusses on the cuisine of one of Italy’s most popular foodie destinations.
Those Neapolitan pizzas coming out piping hot from the in-house pizza oven are something special whether you’re going simple or for one of the standout selections. Savoury and sweet options are on the menu and span everything from garlic shrimp to pumpkin pizza. Intrigued? You should be.
As Sulimaniyah, instagram.com/blanca_forno.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Bones
There’s no bones about it, Bones knows its pizza. The playful, casual Al Malqa eatery urges people to “never leave Bones behind” and we’re not going to argue with that, especially when there are leopard-spotted, hot pizzas waiting to be devoured. The relative newcomer already has a popular following thanks to its signature slices. Just look for the bright green pizza boxes and be ready with your dough stick and dipping sauce.
Al Malqa, instagram.com/bones.saudi (055 564 4183).
The Social Pizzeria
What’s better than pizza? How about a pizza bar? If you’re searching for a fun place to have a slice of cheesy, blistered pizza with friends and family, this authentic Neapolitan pizza bar is a solid spot. Take a lead from the name and gather up a big group to enjoy the pizzas en masse. Grab a stool around the expansive bar and watch the pizza oven being fired up with your orders or park up at the sunny window. Thankfully, these pizzas are whipped up in minutes.
Ar Rabi, instagram.com/the_social_pizzeria (050 546 0225).
For the top ten best pizzas in Riyadh click here.
Best Steakhouse in Riyadh
WINNER
Porterhouse
Riyadh is serious about its steaks. Porterhouse is a prime venue that is firing up some of the top pieces of meat in the city. The home-grown Saudi steakhouse fuses New York vibes with Saudi hospitality and a sharp focus on flavours, ingredient sourcing from the best of the best across the world, seasonality and ambience. It’s all a winning combination and makes Porterhouse a cut above the rest. For times when you’re looking to impress, head to this superb steakhouse.
Al Olaya, porterhouse-sa.com.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Beefbar
Another one of the popular international restaurants to burst onto the Riyadh dining scene is Beefbar straight from Monte-Carlo to the Saudi capital in happening As Sulimaniyah. If you enjoy your meats with a side of sophistication and a hint of whimsical fun, Beefbar is your spot. The elegant dining room takes its dishes and ingredients seriously, but there is still plenty of fun from the emoji plates to the playful desserts that trick the eye into thinking its something savoury. It’s a winning combination for diners.
As Sulimaniyah, instagram.com/beefbar_riyadh (92 000 4146).
Habra
Have you heard about a “beef canteen?” That’s what Habra is. The latest generation of canteens in Riyadh are changing the dining scene and giving cafés a run for their money. Habra is one of the meatier venues of the new lot. This is certainly not school lunch food. We definitely didn’t get bistro steaks between maths lessons or elevated platters like this. And there certainly wasn’t the ambience or giant tree. Get on the waitlist and enjoy this unique experience.
MEFIC Centre, instagram.com/habraksa.
For the top ten best steakhouses in Riyadh click here.
GRAND PRIX AWARDS
Restaurant of the Year
ROKA
Introducing the Best Restaurant in Riyadh 2022. If there’s one eatery that has been the talk of the food-obsessed Saudi capital for the last 12 months, it is without a doubt ROKA. It set a new standard, and made As Sulimaniyah even more of a foodie destination than it already was. That’s saying something.
Stellar sushi, rocking robata, magnificent mixology, super staff and an amazing ambience are just the start of what makes this place so special. Diners were ready to dig in from the get-go, and most importantly, they want to keep coming back.
In a city where there are new eateries opening up at every turn, this is one that already has a loyal following. With a determination to keep delivering and raising its own game, ROKA is rocking Riyadh’s dining scene like no other. It’s not just a top Japanese restaurant in Riyadh, but the top restaurant in Riyadh. Full stop.
As Sulimaniyah, rokarestaurant.com (92 001 2327).
