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Discover the best of Riyadh’s food scene, from traditional Saudi flavors to international cuisine. Explore where to dine in this vibrant culinary capital.
In many cultures, it is considered an honor to serve a guest. In Saudi Arabia, this is evident in its food. The country offers so much, from traditional spice-loaded dishes to international cuisine. It has made its name as a gourmand’s haven.
Traditional Saudi Kunafa dessert. Photo by AkayArda via iStock by Getty Images
What are the Typical Saudi Foods?
In a traditional setup, rice is served on a platter with meat and is a part of the communal platter. These dishes feature Basmati rice and spices, which resulted from the historic trades with the East.
Traditional dishes feature chicken, lamb, seafood, or camel cooked with aromatic spices such as cardamom, saffron, and black pepper. Some popular dishes are:
Kabsa: rice cooked with vegetables and meat
Mandi: chicken or lamb roasted over fire
Shawarma: spiced meat rolled in pita bread
Popular sweets include luqaimat (deep-fried dough balls soaked in honey), kunafa, and baklava.
Baklava is a favorite Saudi sweet. Photo courtesy Unsplash
Saudis prefer a light breakfast, usually dates, qahwa (a lightly roasted coffee ground with cardamom), bread, and cheese. Lunch is usually considered the main meal of the day. It can consist of Kabsa, Jareesh (cracked wheat and lamb porridge), mugalgal lamb (fried lamb), meat stews, and kubz (bread).
Some popular local dishes are Saleeg (white rice cooked in chicken broth and a touch of milk until it becomes soft and creamy), thareed (savory bread pudding), and Kleicha, a cookie filled with dates.
What’s the Food Like in Riyadh?
Riyadh is the largest city and capital of Saudi Arabia and has a hot desert climate. It has long and hot summers, short mild winters, and receives rain in March and April. The main airport is the King Khalid International Airport.
Riyadh skyline at night. Photo by MOHAMED HUSSAIN YOUNIS via iStock by Getty Images
The most reliable means of transport is a car, and you can go by taxi or rent your own car. Riyadh has no street addresses, so you have to go by the nearby landmarks. Most roads are marked in Arabic and English, but a few are marked only in Arabic.
If you are planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, travel by Flyadeal. It is a low-cost airline and a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier. It serves 18 domestic destinations and 17 international destinations across nine countries.
Riyadh has an exciting culinary scene with many restaurants offering various cuisines. It has something to offer every palate, from authentic Saudi food to international cuisine like Chinese, Japanese, Italian, and French.
Exploring Various Cuisines and Restaurants in Riyadh
Riyadh’s food scene showcases its rich culture and modern influences. Restaurants offer traditional Saudi dishes as well as international cuisine. Follow this guide for a memorable food journey in Riyadh.
What is Breakfast Like in Riyadh?
If you want to indulge in rich Saudi cuisine, you can begin your day with a heavy breakfast at the Al Orjouan. This restaurant is located in the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, which is known for its extensive buffet. You will find Middle Eastern breakfast items like freshly baked bread and Shakshuka.
Shakshuka is a popular Middle Eastern breakfast item. Photo courtesy Unsplash
If you prefer international cuisine for breakfast, you can visit Urth Cafe. It is known for its healthy breakfast options and organic coffee. It is a perfect place for a modern breakfast.
If you want to begin your day with a quick and satisfying breakfast, try Mama Noura restaurant. It is a favorite local restaurant for street food like falafel and shawarma.
If you want a luxury breakfast dining experience, you can visit The Globe. It is located in the famous Al Faisaliah Tower. From here, you can get panoramic views of Riyadh. You can indulge in a buffet, which is a mix of local and international items.
Breakfast at The Globe inside Al Faisaliah Tower, offers great views of Riyadh. Photo by Hris via iStock by Getty Images
If you want to try out Riyadh’s hidden gems, head for breakfast at The Table. It is famous for its cozy setting and delicious breakfast, including acai bowls and avocado toast.
Where Should I Eat Lunch in Riyadh?
If you want authentic Saudi food and hospitality, visit the Najd Village. Its architecture and decor, as well as the ancient Najdi heritage remnants, provide a perfect ambience for traditional dishes. Here, you can indulge in dishes like Kabsa and Jareesh. Some of the other restaurants offering traditional Saudi dishes are Aseeb, Haseeb, and Suhail.
A scenic view of Ushaiger Heritage Village in Saudi Arabia, a well-preserved example of traditional Najdi architecture. You can sample that at Najd Village Restaurant in Riyadh. Photo by Lina Badeka via iStock by Getty Images
For authentic Japanese cuisine, visit the Nozomi restaurant. It offers a variety of Japanese fusion dishes, such as sushi and sashimi. Dishes like yellowtail sashimi and black cod miso are a must-try. Another popular Japanese restaurant is Tokyo Restaurant.
Visit the Al Set Al Sham for a unique lunch experience. It offers a wide range of dishes inspired by Levantine cuisine, such as stuffed vine leaves, grilled kebabs, and a mezze platter.
Visit the French-Mediterranean restaurant LPM to try signature dishes like crème brûlée and black truffle risotto.
International cuisine abounds in Riyadh, like the French flavors at LPM. Photo by Karisssa via iStock by Getty Images
If you prefer Indian flavours, head to the Zafran Indian Bistro restaurant. It offers a variety of Indian dishes, from curries to biryanis, prepared using authentic spices.
What Flavors Can I Discover for Dinner in Riyadh?
In the evening, you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at the II Baretto. Classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, such as wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, are available. Other known Italian restaurants are La Rustica, Cipriani, Mamo Michelango, and San Carlo Cicchetti.
For evening coffee, visit any of the numerous cafes in Riyadh. The Roasting House or Draft Cafe offer a cozy ambience and aromatic coffee.
Dinner is available at La Brasserie, located in the Al Faisaliah. It offers an extensive menu and elegant settings.
If you want Parisian food, head to the Les De Mongue Café. You can visit the L’Entrecote Café de París for special salads, delicious steaks, and fries. If you want Mediterranean or American dishes, head to the AOK Restaurant. You can find world-class dining options at the Café ELLE, Madeo, Chi Spacca, Gymkhana, Ferdi, Les Deux Magots, and more. You will surely never go hungry during your visit to Riyadh!
There are many places for dinner in Riyadh, ranging from traditional Saudi cuisine to every imaginable international cuisine. Photo by HyperlapsePro via iStock by Getty Images
When You Visit Riyadh
From the first sip of Arabic coffee in the morning to a dinner that lingers long into the evening, Riyadh offers a feast for every moment of the day. Its blend of tradition and modernity is reflected on every plate—whether you’re sampling centuries-old recipes or savoring flavors from around the globe. Wherever your travels take you, food has a way of telling a destination’s story.
Ready to discover more culinary journeys around the world? Explore Wander With Wonder for our favorite restaurants, food experiences, and wow moments across every corner of the globe.
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