Meet Wadi Riyadh: A new contemporary Saudi-inspired restaurant

Written by:
Afrah Bari
31st August 2025

Now open in Laysen Valley

The dining scene in Riyadh is going through a major shift, with massive international brands moving into every nook and cranny of the city. And while we love welcoming them, homegrown restaurants still have a special place in our hearts. Meet Wadi Riyadh.

Opening its doors at culinary hotspot Laysen Valley, the gorgeous new restaurant proudly serves Saudi-infused international cuisine.

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The fine-dining restaurant draws inspiration from all over the world and serves items with a Saudi twist. What we mean is, picture Italian arancini, or rather Jaranchini, made with wheat balls filled with smoked mozzarella, set on a smooth layer of fresh coriander yoghurt sauce, topped with caramelised samn (clarified butter).

There’s also the Aslat salad, inspired by the rustic cuisine of southern France and yet deeply rooted in the Saudi heritage. Each dish is thoughtfully created with the Saudi identity in mind and the essence of international cuisine in the heart.

There’s also the mantuyoza, Wadi-style mantus, that blend Asian cooking techniques with the rich flavours of a Hijazi-inspired filling. The spot also serves a mean array of mocktails, including a Saudi Negroni, the Wadi Bellini, Desert Rose, and an Irish coffee.

Venture in and you’ll see a gorgeous all-white interior in an airy space and tonnes of natural light seeping in from all the windows. Wadi Riyadh is also decked in old-timey photo prints reflecting the culture of Saudi Arabia.

Location: Laysen Valley

Timing: Sat to Wed 1pm to 12.30am, Thu to Fri 1pm to 1am.

@wadi.riyadh