35 of the best fine dining restaurants in Riyadh
Visit these fine dining restaurants when you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself…
Riyadh has a plethora of worthy destinations when you want a great meal. But if you’re looking for something extra special, Riyadh’s fine dining restaurants offer the kind of atmosphere, service and cuisine that take dining out to the next level.
From international exports and seasoned stalwarts to exciting new concepts, these are the top restaurants in the Saudi capital.
Azure
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If it’s Spanish cuisine you’re after, Azure has got it in spades. The fine-dining venue can be found inside Hyatt Regency and offers a modern approach to authentic southern Spanish homestyle recipes.
Azure, Hyatt Regency, Olaya St, Al Olaya, daily 6.30pm to 10.30pm. @azureriyadh
Billionaire
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Billionaire Riyadh is sure to give you one amazing night out with plenty of entertainment. Expect an exquisite dining experience of Italian and new-Asian dishes with an innovative live show that brings together music, dance, food and drink in one glittering package.
Billionaire Riyadh, Dabab St, Sulaimaniya, PP34+GG, Weekdays 6pm to 1am, Fri & Sat 1pm to 1am. Tel: 920 011 916. @billionaireriyadh
Beefbar
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Set in one of Riyadh’s most bustling streets, Beefbar is one of the more recent openings here in Riyadh. Coming in from Monte Carlo, Beefbar is one of our favourites in the city. The spot brings together elements that take any dining experience to the next level, we’re talking gorgeous design, exceptional service, and quality cuts of meat.
Beefbar, 8712 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, daily 1pm to 2am. @beefbar_riyadh
Brute
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Set in none other than the gorgeous foodie hub, Ramla Terraza, Brute is a contemporary fine-dining venue with a little something for everyone. Despite being a recent addition to the Riyadh dining, the venue is already popular with local diners.
Brute Riyadh, RJ5F+PG5, 7713 King Fahd Rd, As Sahafah, 12.30pm to 1am. @brute_ksa
Cipriani
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For those who enjoy timeless Italian classics, Cipriani is definitely a must-visit. With its glass chandeliers, blue and white terrazzo patterned floor, high gloss oak tables and bespoke blue leather chairs, diners can tuck into authentic Italian cuisine, showcasing Venetian dishes presented with a modern touch. Pasta and pizzas aside, there’s also a mouth-watering veal brisket on the menu that’s oven-roasted to achieve a delicate texture and served with mashed potatoes.
Cipriani, Exit 2, 6927 Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13512, daily 1pm to 12.30am. Tel: 011 277 6700. @ciprianiriyadh
Hakkasan
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This venue is an upscale fine-dining restaurant in Diriyah’s gorgeous Bujairi Terrace. Carved into the mud-brick architecture Diriyah is known for, Hakkasan Riyadh is only a short distance away from UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif and offers up amazing views of the history all around you.
Hakkasan, Matal, Al Bujairi، Bujairi District, Diriyah, Sat to Thu 1pm to 1am, Fri 3pm to 1am. @hakkasanriyadh
Hotel Cartagena
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Travel to Colombia with U Walk’s newcomer, Hotel Cartagena. As you walk into the restaurant, you’ll come across the kaleidoscope of colours, complete with indoor rainforest-inspired décor. The fun venue presents a bold, contemporary twist on traditional Colombian cuisine, with a menu that’s rich in flavours. Start with the classic fish ceviche and get the grilled flank steak tacos and corn chicharrones. The whole lamb shoulder Asado is also a must-try.
Hotel Cartagena, U Walk, An Nakheel, Riyadh, daily 6.30pm to 1.30am. Tel: 9200 33801. @hotelcartagenariyadh
Il Baretto
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Il Baretto serves the best of Italian cuisine in an upscale environment, one that’s as inviting as it is elegant. When you’re not distracted by the traditional Italian mains (think veal Milanese, whole seabass, and lobster linguine), you can soak up the fantastic atmosphere from the elegant outdoor terrace, watching Riyadh go by.
Il Baretto Riyadh, Al Malqa, Riyadh 13521, King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, daily 12.30pm to 3.30pm & 7pm to 1am. The bar is open all day. Tel: 9200 12508. @ilbarettosa
Le Maschou
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Expect plenty of finesse at this French restaurant in the Diplomatic Quarter. Known for its unique cooking method using the wood-fire grill, Le Maschou specialises in traditional French food and steaks. The tenderloin carpaccio, fig salad and grilled rib-eye are all hot favourites. Just as unique as the food, the décor at Le Maschou is rustic yet stunning with style unto itself that helps set a sophisticated atmosphere.
Le Maschou, Diplomatic Quarter, Tayma St, Al Safarat, Riyadh 11564, Sun to Thurs 4.30pm to 1am, Fri & Sat 3.30pm to 1. Tel: 9200 13005. @lemaschou_sa
L’Entrecote Café de Paris
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This elegant, sky-high restaurant serves up only one main course – a delicious steak frites – but you get to choose between striploin, tenderloin, and Wagyu striploin. They’re served with its secret sauce, alongside green salad and chips. Additionally, five desserts are available for after-meal indulgences, such as crème brûlée and profiteroles topped with melted chocolate.
L’Entrecote Café de Paris, King Fahd Branch Rd, Al Faisaliah Tower, Riyadh, Sun to Thurs 1pm to midnight, Fri & Sat 2pm to midnight. Tel: 9200 18998. @entrecote.sa
LPM
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High on our list of favourites, LPM Restaurant & Café provides Riyadh’s sophisticated diners with the authentic flavours and iconic glamour of the French Riviera to the heart of the Kingdom. Expect starched white tablecloths and eye-catching abstract artwork on the walls. The menu focuses on French Mediterranean and Niçoise cuisine, and you’ll find mouth-watering beef carpaccio and plenty of seafood. Top picks include the burrata with tomatoes and basil, escargots with garlic butter and parsley, and homemade gnocchi with cherry tomatoes.
LPM Restaurant & Café, King Fahd Road, Street No. 38, Al Motassem Street, Al Olaya (behind Al Faisaliah Hotel), Riyadh, Sun to Thurs 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Fri & Sat 1pm to 4pm, daily 6.30pm to 11pm. @lpmriyadh
Lusin
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Combining contemporary elegance and unparalleled service, Lusin takes every guest on a gastronomic journey through centuries of Armenian traditions – one of flavour, aroma, texture and decadence. It’s the punchier, earthier flavours where Lusin’s menu sings. Our personal favourite is the cherry kebab – rich but light, almost brazenly luxe and yet practically a comfort food.
Lusin, Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulaziz Rd, Centria Mall, MMXM+49 & Northern Ring Branch Road, An Nakheel, QJ2F+4C, Sat to Wed 8.30am to 12.30am, Thurs 8.30am to 1am, Fri 12.30pm to 1am, Tel: 920 002 690. @_lusin_
Maiz
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Maiz is a Saudi fine-dining restaurant nestled into the amazing Bujairi Terrace. The venue is on a mission to put Saudi Arabia and its cuisine on the map. Grand interiors, huge chandeliers, and two seating areas (an airy terrace and a more upscale indoor area) are just some of the things you can expect when dining in Maiz along with amazing Saudi food reimagined with a more contemporary style too.
Maiz, Al Bujairi, Diriyah, daily noon to 1pm. @maizriyadh
Mamo Michelangelo
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At the mere mention of Mamo, how could one not get excited about a glamorous French Riviera import taking root right here in Riyadh? Mamo maintains the same authentic feel and dedication to French-Mediterranean flavours as its Antibes namesake. Mamo’s signature offerings include their flavourful veal Milanese, the fresh truffle pizza and the burrata salad. What we love the most is the restaurant’s charming interior – the perfect setting for a five-star dining experience, using old materials from Italy and Provençe to create an authentically elegant ambience.
Mamo Michelangelo, Al Faisaliah Hotel (South Wing), daily 12.30pm to 3pm, 7.30pm to 11pm, Tel: 920 000 874. @mamomichelangeloksa
Meraki
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This gem at Al Faisaliah Hotel has a great vibe with warm service that’s only made better with delicious modern Greek food. The dining room is light and airy, decorated with wooden furnishings and earthy tones. Start with pita and one or more mezze spreads, but save room for other signature dishes such as pastitsio, prawns souvlaki, and lamb cutlets. Mocktails that readily complement the indulgent eats are available as well, and they include the refreshing Poseidon, comprising mandarin, lime juice and salt air foam.
Meraki, Al Moatasem Street, At Olaya, Riyadh 12212, daily 1pm to 3.30pm, Sun to Tues 7pm to midnight & Wed to Sat 7pm to 12.30am. Tel: 9200 01050. @merakiriyadh
MNKY HSE
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MNKY HSE is an intimate restaurant serving contemporary Latin American cuisine. The lighting is dim, and the décor is plush with modern artwork that adorns the walls and makes for a luxuriant atmosphere. Here, music is just as important as the menu, and if you’re after a fun night out, you don’t need to look any further. Their new resident DJ, DJ Leon Garcia, is set to turn up the hype with the best of house, drum and bass, hip-hop and reggae.
MNKY HSE, 6927 Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13512, Sun to Wed 6.30pm to 1am, Thurs to Sat 6.30pm to 2am. Tel: 800 440 0041. @mnkyhseksa
Morini
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Located in what we think is one of the coolest boutique hotels in Riyadh, Morini is a New York-style Italian restaurant. The venue pays tribute to the authentic and rustic cuisine of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. The menu is designed to be shared and features fresh, homemade pasta and an extensive selection of grilled fish and meat.
Morini, Jareed Hotel, Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Road, Hittin, Exit 2, daily 7am to midnight. @moriniriyadh
Myazu
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From the same company behind Nozomi Garden at Oud Square in Diplomatic Quarter, Myazu is the group’s first homegrown dining concept. The restaurant boasts an open kitchen that houses a robata grill and sushi counter with wrap-around counter seating. A compelling feature is Myazu Arts, which features the mocktail bar and DJ counter, and acts as an intimate area for high-profile guests and private gatherings. Among the restaurant’s best-seller dishes are marinated yellowtail sashimi, popcorn shrimp with spicy sauce, and crispy sushi rice with salmon and tuna tartare.
Myazu, Musad Bin Jalawi, MPX3+WX, daily 12.30pm to 12.30am, Tel: 920 009 686. @myazusaudi
Nozomi
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Nozomi just reopened its doors in the capital a few months ago and is already making big waves in the capital. The venue is so much more than just another Japanese restaurant in the capital. It provides one of the most unique dining experiences in the city. Complete with tonnes of exciting focal points throughout the venue, this is one must-try venue. Enter through a cave stalactite-type entryway made with over 26,000 pulsating light rods to guide you in and then feast your eyes on the immersive 3D image-mapping rock wall. Then, make your way to the infinity bar or one of the many tables in the sprawling restaurant and order up whatever sounds good (it’s more than likely that it is).
Nozomi Riyadh, Century Corner, 7448 King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, 4255, Sat to Wed 1pm to 11.30pm, Thu to Fri 1pm to 12.3am. @nozomiksa
Nusr-Et
@whatsonksa Love #SaltBae? Discover his brand new restaurant in U Walk #riyadh #whatsonksa #saudiarabia?? #wheretoeatriyadh #nusretriyadh #nusretgokce #saudi ♬ Ooh Ahh (My Life Be Like) [feat. Tobymac] – Grits
Treat yourself to a classy meal of prime cuts at Salt Bae’s first restaurant branch in the Kingdom and his 28th overall. The restaurant will impress even the most discerning carnivores with a gorgeous interior and movie-themed soundtracks playing in the background. Our choice pick? The tender and juicy Wagyu porterhouse steak. Other highlights include Nusr-et’s signature salad, the meat sushi, the meat spaghetti, and the Ottoman steak.
Nusr-Et Riyadh, U Walk, Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, Riyadh 12373, daily noon to 1.30am. Tel: 011 494 5120. @nusr_et
Okku
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This multi-award-winning restaurant needs no introduction. The experience begins when you enter the dark, superlatively slick surroundings of Okku, greeted by life-sized samurai statues. Food-wise, Okku wowed us with its innovative twists on Japanese favourites. Servings are modest, but each bite reveals incredible textures and flavours, such as the salmon sashimi with chopped red and yellow pepper, micro cress and spring onion in ginger citrus-soy vinaigrette. Prices can be eye-watering, but this hotspot is still a must-visit.
Okku, Tahlia Street, Al Olaya, MMWJ+3Q, daily 1pm to 1am, Tel: 011 442 2929. @okkuriyadh
Oulu
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Oulu exudes a quaint ambience that complements its fine dining experience. It specialises in homely Italian dishes and emphasises fresh and high-quality ingredients. A must-order is the pesto pasta, which is exceptionally flavourful. For dessert lovers, don’t miss out on their tiramisu – it makes for the perfect sweet ending.
Oulu, Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12243, daily 1pm to 1am. Tel: 056 762 4144. @oulu.sa
ROKA
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Fire up your senses at ROKA, a trendy restaurant serving contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine. The highlight of the menu: yellowtail sashimi splashed with yuzu-truffle dressing, crispy baked potato, miso black cod, and juicy Korean lamb cutlets. Don’t miss the robata-grilled delicacies, too – best enjoyed at the counter seats. But, if you prefer alfresco dining, park yourself on the beautiful terrace upstairs.
ROKA, 5140 Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulaziz Rd, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12243, Sun to Wed 1pm to 4.30pm & 6.30pm to midnight, Thurs to Sat 1pm to 12.30am. Tel: 920 012 327. @rokariyadhofficial
San Carlo Cicchetti
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Conveniently situated in the Sulimaniyah district, San Carlo Cicchetti serves up quality Italian food and hearty hospitality. Expect to find handmade pasta here, which will satisfy pasta lovers with its rich and savoury flavours. Comforting and heart-warming dishes aside, Cicchetti’s cosy ambience also makes it an ideal destination for an intimate catch-up or a romantic date night.
San Carlo Cicchetti, 2662 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12234, daily 1pm to 1am. Tel: 9200 10679. @cicchettisaudi
Santini
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It’s clear that Riyadh loves its Italian cuisine restaurants, and the capital sure provides. Santini can be found in one of the up-and-coming areas in Riyadh, Laysen Valley. The gorgeous venue comes from London and serves delicious kinds of pasta, pizzas and more plus gluten-free options too.
Santini, Laysen Valley, Umm Al Hamam Al Gharbi, daily 1pm to 12.30am. @santini.riyadh
Spazio
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If you’re cool with heights, you may as well go all the way out. Perched on the 77th floor of Riyadh’s Kingdom Tower, this A-listers’ restaurant melds opulent dining with elegant interiors and a panoramic view of the city to boot. Kick off your gastronomic journey here with starters such as duo salmon tartare with black caviar before moving on to the mains, which include veal tenderloin Rossini-style with foie gras, braised endives, spinach quenelles and black truffles with morel sauce.
Spazio 77 Restaurant & Lounge, Kingdom Tower, 77th Floor, Al Urubah Road, PM6F+GM, daily 9am to 11.30pm, Tel: 011 211 1888. @spazio77
Suhail
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Suhail has a talent for changing the way people perceive and experience Saudi cuisine, marrying tradition with modernity – both in the kitchen and with its suave interiors. Serving up sharing plates, the flavours here certainly aren’t shy. Beautifully spiced dishes on offer are made even more tempting by perfect presentation, which is all part of the well-heeled package. Don’t miss the lamb mugalgal and plenty of the saj bread to mop up the leftovers. Portions are petite, but the prices are fully justified. Overall, Suhail promises sensory joys, prettily presented.
Suhail, Northern Ring Rd, An Nakheel, QJ2F+5H, Sat to Wed 1pm to 12.30am, Thurs & Fri 1pm to 1am, Tel: 920 002 690. @suhail_saudi
The Globe
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The Globe is a unique cohesion of a restaurant, cigar lounge and a viewing deck under one roof. Located inside the spectacular golden glass orb that tops the Al Faisaliah Tower, you best believe you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline. At the same time, enjoy dining on a diverse selection of Arabic and modern European cuisine. From intimate dinners to relaxing afternoon teas, The Globe hosts it all.
The Globe, King Fahd Branch Rd, Al Faisaliah Tower, Riyadh 12212, daily 4pm to 1am. Tel: 011 273 2222. @alfaisaliahhotel
Villa Palma
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Tucked away in the Sulimaniyah area, Villa Palma transports diners to the Mediterranean sea’s sandy coasts through a gamut of comforting dishes. The culinary team has created a colourful and innovative menu inspired by the landscapes, the sea and the mountains of Greece, Italy, Spain and the South of France. Expect dishes bursting with flavour like chargrilled octopus with hazelnuts and salsa verde, and the perfectly seasoned and pleasingly unpretentious slow-baked salt-crusted seabass.
Villa Palma, Abdullah Bin Hamdan, As Sulimaniyah, MMWV+VW, Mon to Sat 7pm to midnight, Tel: 920 035 500. @villa_palma
Walton St. Scalini
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Bringing upscale Italian fare to the city is the acclaimed restaurant Walton St. Scalini (not to be mistaken with Scalini Restorante in Diplomatic Quarter). Like its counterparts in London, Doha and Dubai, this institution features plush deep-blue interiors and the restaurant’s trademark wall of fame, filled with celebrities’ faces. The creamy burrata with cherry tomatoes and the paccheri pasta with parmesan and shavings of black truffle are favourites with the regulars.
Walton St. Scalini, Signature Centre, Hateen District, Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Road, Exit 2, QJ63+2X, daily 1pm to 4pm, 7pm to 12.30am, Tel: 011 477 7753. @waltonstscalini
Yauatcha
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Yauatcha is a steadfast favourite among gastronomes for its classic and contemporary dim sums (dumplings), served alongside sumptuous seafood plates, like wok-tossed tiger prawn, and rich meat dishes such as jasmine tea smoked wagyu beef. But that isn’t the restaurant’s only appeal; Yauatcha is also celebrated for its hand-made fusion desserts and an assortment of Chinese teas and innovative mocktails.
Yauatcha, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 11433, daily noon to 11.30pm. Tel: 9200 06555. @yauatchariyadh
Yokari
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For those seeking gourmet-style Japanese cuisine, Yokari is the place to be. With its stylish minimalist interior and devoted chefs, this upscale restaurant has a whole lot to offer. Boasting a menu with fresh sushi, authentically prepared robatayaki fare, and more, each dish is beautifully presented and prepared with technical precision. This Japanese wonderland is ideal for just about any occasion.
Yokari, Centria Mall, Level 2, Olaya St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12241, daily 1pm to 11.30pm. Tel: 011 288 6999. @yokari_restaurant
Zuma – opening soon
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The dining scene in Saudi Arabia is set to welcome many world-famous names, and one of them is none other than Zuma. Known for its izakaya-inspired shared dining, Zuma’s famous plates include marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf, sliced yellowtail and salt-grilled seabass. In early 2021, Zuma arrived as a pop-up at Riyadh Oasis, but a permanent address is expected to open soon. No doubt, this will be high on the list as Riyadh’s top restaurant.
Opening soon. @zumariyadhofficial
Spago – opening May 12
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The city’s constantly welcoming in amazing international brand names, and Spago is set to join the list this weekend. A venue by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, the restaurant is his flagship venue worldwide. And we’re finally about to get one.
Spago Riyadh, Via Riyadh, Makkah Al Mukarramah Rd, Al Hada. @spago.sa
Chi Spacca – opening May 15
From LA to Via Riyadh comes chi SPACCA, a restaurant inspired by the flavours of Tuscany from award-winning chef and restauranteur Nancy Silverton. Italian for “he who cleaves” the elevated Italian dining experience is set to be straight out of a meat eater’s dream.
Images: Instagram