Riyadh – Where to Eat in Style?

Riyadh, the pulsating center of Saudi Arabia, is a city of breathtaking contrasts of gleaming high-rises, ancient heritage, and a robust food culture that satisfies every palate. From barbecue restaurants sizzling with flavors to high-end buffets and traditional international cuisine, Riyadh has something for everyone. Whether you are a city dweller foodie or a tourist visiting the city, you're in for a treat as you are about to explore some of the finest restaurants serving up fantastic food with amazing experiences. Let's get started!

Craving smoky, juicy meats in a cool atmosphere? 300F Smokehouse is a barbecue revolution in Riyadh. This trendy restaurant combines traditional barbecue with a twist of modernity, making it a destination of choice for all meat enthusiasts. The open kitchen is the true excitement that allows you to witness the magic unfold while you wait for your food. Order their creative deconstructed salads before trying their main course— a vast portion of perfectly smoked meats. Then order the Old School Ribs or try out their Nobody’s Perfect Combo, offering fall-apart 8-hour smoked short ribs. Don't forget to try their unique fusion flavors and a fresh mocktail, together these combos make it one of the best restaurants in Riyadh to hang out with your friends!

Location: Al Malqa, 7068 Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Al Awwal Road, RRMD7068, 4423, Al Malqa District, Riyadh 13523, Saudi Arabia.

Messy, meaty, and truly mouthwatering —7 Ribs is a perfect spot to try barbecue. Situated in Al Malqa, this top-notch eatery specializes in low and slow cooking, promising rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Try their 200-day grain-fed cuts which are dry-smoked for up to 12 hours for that irreplaceable texture. If you order their signature fall-off-the-bone ribs or a smoky steak smothered in sauce, you'll have to put on the gloves provided and dig in. No knives and forks here—just unadulterated hands-on barbecue heaven.

Location: Anas Ibn Malik Rd, Al Malqa, Riyadh 13521, Saudi Arabia.

A buffet as majestic as its location— explore the Al Orjouan at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh. This day-to-night dining restaurant elevates buffets to new heights, with an unparalleled array of international and Middle Eastern cuisine. With its awesome interiors and inviting ambiance, this is the perfect spot for family or friends’ gatherings, business lunches, or a high-end weekend brunch.

Location: Al Hada Area, Makkah Al Mukarramah Road, Al Hada, Riyadh 11493, Saudi Arabia. 

Experience the flavors of Spain without ever leaving Riyadh at none other than Asador de Aranda in Laysen Valley, transporting you to the world of Spanish food with earthy flavors. Famous for its clay oven preparation, this Madrid-born restaurant is a specialist in hearty, home-style food served in a chic, contemporary ambiance. Their iconic roasted lamb is truly an award-winning dish —that is truly juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Get the biggest serving, invite your friends over, and experience an authentic Spanish feast. From the suckling lamb with crispy skin to the mouth-watering tapas, each meal is made with the love and dedication of classic Spanish cooking.

Location: Laysen Valley, King Khalid Rd, Umm Al Hamam Al Gharbi, Riyadh 12329, Saudi Arabia.

Japanese food with a Nikkei flair has finally come to Riyadh's KAFD, and foodies couldn't be more thrilled. Kuuru, the best Japanese restaurant in Riyadh, introduces a mix of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine to the Saudi capital in an ambiance that's nothing less than breathtaking.

This restaurant has an open kitchen and robata grill that add magic to each dish, showcasing the preparation with precision and flair. With a sharing-style menu—you’ll be tempted to keep an extra slice of sashimi or the black cod for yourself.  

Located in: KAFD 3.05 building

Address: 305, Al Aqiq, Riyadh 13519, Saudi Arabia

A foodie? La Brasserie in the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah is not your average buffet. It's Riyadh's buffet, the gold standard for international fare in an elegant atmosphere.

With its interactive stations and gorgeously presented dishes, each visit offers a perfect dining adventure. From fresh seafood to rich desserts, the variety is enormous, guaranteeing something for everyone.

Location: King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, Saudi Arabia.

The best of French fine dining—La Petite Maison is not only the top French restaurant in Riyadh, but it's also an icon of European dining. Located in Al Olaya, this award-winning eatery brings the charm of Niçoise cuisine to the city center.

With a sleek but welcoming atmosphere, it's the ideal location for an upscale meal that doesn't feel too stuffy. Mediterranean favorites, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared meats shine in the finest French culinary techniques used here.

Location: Al Motassem Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, Saudi Arabia.

Ice cream aficionados, take note! Nakhati Gelato, an all-female-owned jewel, introduces Riyadh to a modern innovation of the classic gelato in flavors based on local produce.

From date mamoul to zbadi yogurt and mango sorbet, each scoop is silky, rich, and loaded with flavor. The hot gelato bun is the star of the show—a warm, airy bun filled with your choice of gelato, pressed until it's gooey with deliciousness. If you opt for a quick cone to-go or sit in for a brownie topped with your favorite scoop, Nakhati will be your new go-to dessert destination in the city.

Location: 3205 King Faisal Rd، Bujairi Terrace, 7295, Riyadh 13711, Saudi Arabia.

A fried chicken lover? Nashville has hit Riyadh like a whirlwind, bringing the city the deep, spicy taste of hot Southern-style chicken. This home-grown brand by the same brains behind The California Burger is now the favorite spot for crunch, fire-licked treats.

The lighthearted, casual atmosphere lends itself perfectly to a night on the town with friends—simply wear gloves and dare each other to really finish the dish! With vibrant flavors and crispy, juicy chicken that will indulge your cravings, Nashville's is an absolute destination in Riyadh's growing food scene.

Location: 6441 Anas Ibn Malik Rd, Al Malqa District , RRMC3634، 3634, Riyadh 13524, Saudi Arabia.

Bringing a piece of London's artisanal baking to Riyadh, Chestnut Bakery in Pure Center, Al Mohammadiyah is a haven for bread connoisseurs. From delicate croissants and rich Danishes to sourdough wood-fired loaves, each bite is a tribute to the bread-making art form. Whether taking a relaxed brunch or rushing through a blueberry sourdough on the run, this location delivers both quality and flavor.

Location: 3213 As Safarjal, 7993, Riyadh 12364, Saudi Arabia.