In case you missed it: SUSHISAMBA Riyadh is now closed
Was it an iconic loss or a business reality?
Believe it or not, SUSHISAMBA has quietly closed its doors. The restaurant’s Instagram account hasn’t posted since August 18, suggesting the closure happened only recently – and without any official announcement.
Having opened just over a year ago in August 2024 in KAFD, SUSHISAMBA is renowned for its stunning décor, high-energy ambience, and a fusion of Japanese, Peruvian, and Brazilian flavours.
Its sudden closure – after winning Favourite Business Lunch at the What’s On Saudi Arabia Awards 2025 – came without much fanfare, surprising those who thought it had found its stride.
The reasons for the closure remain private, although a few clues might exist. Maintaining an international concept in Riyadh’s rapidly changing restaurant scene isn’t easy, and keeping a hotspot buzzing all year round is no small feat.
Even award-winning concepts can find it hard to keep up. Neither was it enough for loyal fans to support the concept in the long run.
Although SUSHISAMBA’s doors may be closed, Riyadh’s culinary energy shows no signs of slowing. New concepts are already emerging to keep the capital’s food scene buzzing.
In KAFD and looking for a place to eat?
New spots to try at KAFD now include Tashas Café for all-day dining and fuss-free comfort food, as well as the recently opened restaurants at the Kimpton Hotel – from Botanica’s lush, garden-inspired dining to having gourmet salads, pizzas, and sandwiches at Ziya. There’s also the Kanza Pool Lounge, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and crave-worthy bites, and The Vinyl Ember, an American grill with open-fire cooking, artful mocktails, and immersive vibes for breakfast and dinner.
Or if you’re missing SUSHISAMBA’s energy and eclectic flavours, try Zuma, Kuuru, or Chotto Matte for that same vibrant fusion of flavours and atmosphere.
Images: What’s On Archives
