Check out the big brands, from Amazónico to Zuma.
Saudi Arabia is fast becoming a dining destination – there are celebrity chefs, from Jason Atherton to David Burke, and international brands, from LPM to ROKA. So, whether the words Nobu or Zuma get your mouth watering, there’ll soon be more extraordinary restaurants in the kingdom. Here are the most exciting new restaurants opening in Riyadh.
AB Steak by Chef Akira Back
Having already opened Dasha in the Saudi capital, Akira Back’s burgeoning restaurant empire shows no signs of slowing. Located inside the 1364 complex in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, AB Steak offers diners a modern American Steakhouse experience infused with a Korean flair. The concept has already proven popular in Beverley Hills, and diners in Riyadh can expect the finest cuts of beef, expertly dry-aged in AB Steak’s in-house ageing room.
GO: Visit https://unifiedhospitality.com for reservations and more information.
Alaya
Chef Izu Ani’s Alaya will be opening in Saudi Arabia in 2025. The original concept can be found in Dubai, and the menu celebrates Mediterranean cuisine and features Middle Eastern influences. The menu is an ode to fresh herbs and spices, as you’ll find the likes of cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom and the lemony flavours of sumac. Plus, plenty of prime meat and seafood dishes. The restaurant draws inspiration from Chef Izu’s travels, it aims to pay tribute to the richness of the region.
GO: Visit https://fundamentalhospitality.com for more information.
Amazónico Riyadh
If the idea of a rainforest-themed restaurant has got you thinking about Rainforest Café, think again. Amazónico Riyadh is a luxury Latin American restaurant specialising in seafood, grilled meats and sushi. The restaurant originally opened in Madrid, Spain in 2010 by the husband-and-wife team, Sandro Silva and Marta Seco. It has since found a home across affluent addresses including DIFC, Dubai and Mayfair, London – the latter being the most expensive place on the Monopoly Board. Plus, a pop-up opened in Riyadh Oasis during Riyadh Season. So, we can see why they want to roll the dice and open a permanent location in Riyadh.
GO: Visit www.amazonicorestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
Arcade Food Hall
Saudi Arabia’s food scene is about to start sizzling. Arcade Food Hall is making its way from London to Riyadh. The Kingdom’s MJS Holding is behind the new concept, which brings together a range of restaurants from around the world. If the London branch is anything to go by, the Riyadh branch will be a dining destination as there is a fun-filled atmosphere. Guests can watch the chefs at work in open kitchens and check out the food before making their choices. The options include American-style burgers, Japanese sushi, Indonesian street food, Middle Eastern shawarmas and Spanish tapas.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
Bardo
London’s Bardo is the next restaurant to make its way to Riyadh. The fine dining Italian concept will be located in King Abdullah Financial District and is being created by Bluehaus Group. The team shared renders of the new restaurant, which looks set to be a sophisticated spot. The décor oozes Art Deco glamour, thanks to the chandeliers, red-hot chairs and sofas, and white tablecloths. We’re hoping that Bardo in Riyadh’s menu reflects the London locale. The original menu includes salads, antipasti and primi. The dishes include Black Truffle Tagliolini, Lobster Tagliatelle, Oven Roasted Lion of Lamb, and Roasted Sea Bass. Plus, the desserts include Cheesecake, Gelato and Tiramisu.
GO: Visit www.bardostjames.com for more information.
BeauCoCo
Making its debut outside of France, BeauCoCo Riyadh is guaranteed to draw diners. If its Paris and Lyon outposts are anything to go by, foodies in the capital are in for a visual and gastronomical treat. The entrance, adorned with colourful green panels, is bound to make you want to snap a picture or two for the gram. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by a carpeted interior with a vibe that feels like old-school Paris, with a modern twist. BeauCoCo Riyadh branch is expected to carry the same culinary magic that made it a hit in France. The menu will likely cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course, brunch. Expect the likes of Coco Bowl Salad, Langoustine Ravioli, and Roasted Cod. For a sweet treat, indulging in Miss Coco is absolutely necessary.
GO: Follow @cocorestaurant_ on Instagram for more information.
Benoit Riyadh
Benoit in Riyadh will draw inspiration from its OG in Paris, France. The venue prides itself on its bistro spirit and includes, brass, marble-like columns, paintings across the walls, and red velvet seats. If the original restaurant is anything to go by, we are expecting Benoit in Riyadh’s menu to include French classics. The tagline is: “At Benoit, drinking and feasting like kings”. The starters include Chilled Blue Lobster, Duck Foie Gras, Marinated Smoked Salmon, and Snails in their Shells. The mains include Organic Tigre calf’s head, Seared Fillet of Sea Bass, and Turbot cooked with half-salted butter. The desserts include Profiteroles, Classic Vanilla Millefeuille, and Minute Made Chocolate Biscuit.
GO: Visit www.benoit-paris.com for more information.
B+F
Get ready to be wowed by a new restaurant concept from the group behind Burger Boutique in Kuwait. B+F in Laysen Valley will offer upscale international cuisine, including open-flame cooking demonstrations and pizzas from the wood-fired oven. The concept look set to turn up the heat in Riyadh.
GO: Visit https://www.bandf.me for reservations and more information.
Chotto Matte
Launched in 2013 by Founder and Owner Kurt Zdesar, Chotto Matte currently has four locations in the UK, the US, and Canada. The upmarket concept is now set to expand into Riyadh’s buzzing KAFD. Experience the vibrant flavours of Nikkei cuisine, where Executive Chef Jordan Sclare skillfully blends Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions with an artistic approach to every dish. We’re hoping the signature dishes like the miso black cod, tentaculos de pulpo, and Chotto Matte’s superb sushi make it to the Kingdom.
GO: Visit https://chotto-matte.com for more information.
Cipriani Dolci
Cipriani Dolci will be opening in Saudi Arabia in 2024. The Venetian-inspired restaurant draws inspiration from the interiors of a luxury yacht, the decor mirrors the chic ambience of the original Harry’s Bar in Venice. And let’s not forget the dolci – the desserts that have garnered a cult following. From the decadent Torta Di Cioccolato to the Vanilla Meringue Cake, each bite is a sweet treat. The all-day casual dining brings together desserts and pastries.
GO: Visit https://fundamentalhospitality.com for more information.
Em Sherif Sea Café
Located in Leysan Valley, Em Sherif Café presents authentic Lebanese delicacies in a new light. All ingredients are chosen with a personal touch, from the fresh produce to the succulent meats, to surprise and delight guests through innovative dishes. The menu features an extensive selection of seafood as well as cold and hot mezze, with signatures including the famous fresh Lebanese Tabbouleh in three equally delectable variations, a classic creamy hummus topped with roasted pine nuts. Em Sherif Sea Café is already present in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Doha.
GO: Follow @emsherifcafeksa on Instagram for more information.
Fouqet’s Riyadh
Fouquet’s opened in 1899 in Paris. The restaurant can now be found in Abu Dhabi, Cannes, Courchevel, Dubai, New York and Saint-Barth. The FACT Award-winner is now making its way to Riyadh. Famous for its fine dining French food, the dishes range from Classic Beef Bourguignon to Sea Bass Filet a la Plancha.
GO: Visit www.hotelsbarriere.com for reservations and more information.
Gaia
Our love for Chef Izu Ani’s Gaia knows no bounds, so we were excited to hear that the FACT Award-winner was opening in the capital. With generosity and authenticity at the core of its ethos, Gaia serves humble cuisine where every dish is made with love and fuelled with flavours. The star of the show is undoubtedly Gaia’s signature Ice Market. Featuring an array of fresh fish and seafood, which is delivered daily, diners can not only select their fish and seafood but also have it cooked exactly to their preference. Taking the Kingdom by storm, Gaia will also be making its Riyadh debut very soon.
GO: Visit https://gaia-restaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Gina
The Kingdom’s MJS Holdings is behind the opening of Gina in Riyadh, and here’s what to expect. Gina first launched in Nice, France, and is open for lunch and dinner. Chef Geraldine Rapp takes pride in the authentic flavours and high-quality ingredients, and many are sourced from across the border in Italy. The menu specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, and spans starters, pizza, pastas, risotto, fishes, meat and sides. The starters include a Burrata, Fritto Misto and Parmigiana. The pastas include an Alle Vongole spaghetti with clams; Ravioli with ricotta cheese, tomato sauce and spinach; and Tartufo rigatoni with truffle and parmesan. The fishes range from Filet de Loup to Sole Belle Meuniere. The meats range from Orecchia Di Elefante to Scaloppina.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
Il Bambini Club
The Kingdom’s MJS Holdings is behind the opening of Il Bambini Club in Riyadh, and here’s what to expect. Bambini can already be found in Megève and Paris in France. Both venues are packed with personality and have a quirky décor. The spaces are filled with colourful chairs, fringed lamps and patterned prints. A youthful spirit is apparent in the design as well as the name – Bambini translates from the French word for young child. Il Bambini Club specialises in Italian food. The original menu spans pizzas to pastas. The signature dishes range from Crispy Risotto Croquettes to Mozzarella Fritters. The pastas include Gnocchi Gratines All Sorrentina, Linguine Au Citron and Risotto Aux Gambas. The pizzas include Bambinita, Tartufo Pizza and Verdure Pizza. The desserts include Gelato Al Pistachio, Tarte Citron Meringue and Tiramisu.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
INKO NITO
The Kingdom’s MJS Holdings is behind a range of restaurants and will open the Japanese concept, INKO NITO. The restaurant pitches itself as an unconventional Japanese concept that offers a twist on the classic robatayaki experience. The restaurant was founded by Rainer Becker in Soho, London in 2018, and now it is expanding to Saudi Arabia, although the location has not yet been confirmed. The London menu spans snacks, salads, raw and rolls, robata and desserts. The robata dishes include INKO Steak Frites with spicy beef, and INKO Burger with Wagyu, truffle cream cheese and a brioche bun. Plus, Miso Canadian Black Cod with pickled daikon, Bone Marrow with smoked soy, and Salmon Fillet with ruby grapefruit.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
Isabel Mayfair
Isabel Mayfair promises a blend of Latin and Mediterranean flavours with a menu that spans from lunch until the late hours of the night. The Riyadh outpost will mark Isabel’s first venture outside of London and is expected to open its doors in the summer. Diners can anticipate a Gatsby-style ambience where glitzy gold ceilings, complemented by brass tones and plush dark interiors, will set the stage for a memorable meal. As for the menu, expect delectable options such as Seabass Ceviche, Stracciatella, Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli, Slow-cooked Beef Short Ribs, and many more. Dessert lovers will be delighted by the signature Isabel crepes with chocolate and banana, Pistachio and peppercorn fondant with saffron ice cream and the Isabel’ Eton mess’.
GO: Visit www.isabelw1.london for more information.
IT Restaurant
Get ready for a new dining destination that promises to be a hit – IT Restaurant. This global brand is known for its chic interiors, soulful music, and exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. With locations in party hotspots around the world such as Ibiza, London, Mykonos and Tulum, IT restaurant is set to bring its signature vibe to Riyadh in 2024.
GO: Visit www.itrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Juno
Saudi Arabia is home to restaurants from around the world, from celebrity chefs to big brands. Now, Riyadh’s Laysen Valley is set to welcome Qatar’s restaurant, Juno. Juno in Riyadh will be a family-friendly restaurant, and boasts an Italian-inspired menu. Based on the Qatar menu, we can expect appetisers, salads, pizzas, mains and desserts. Highlights include Goat Cheese Salad, J Truffle Pizza, Saffron Shrimp Risotto, Stuffed Burrata and Truffle Madaldini.
GO: Follow @juno.qa on Instagram for more information.
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
We have it on good authority that L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is opening its doors soon in Al Murabba. The restaurant will be designed in a distinct Joël Robuchon style, meaning diners can expect the brand’s signature red and black colour scheme, accentuated by touches of brass in a refined yet informal dining experience. Like its counterparts in Dubai and London, Paris and Tokyo, the menu is expected to revolve around seasonal ingredients, where classic Joel Robuchon signatures will be imbued with a modern twist.
GO: Visit www.joel-robuchon.com for reservations and more information.
La Californie
La Californie is making its way from Cannes to Riyadh. While we do not yet know what the interiors will look like, we imagine it will draw inspiration from its original restaurant and be a chic spot. The restaurant serves French food including Grilled Octopus, Nicoise Salad, Salmon Ceviche, Tuna Steak and Veal Cutlet. Plus, desserts ranging from a Crème Brulee to Crème Caramel.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
La Maison Ani
La Maison Ani will be opening in Saudi Arabia in 2025. La Maison Ani serves relaxed French-Mediterranean cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner in an effortlessly elegant setting. Highlights include the escargot, burrata, grilled langoustine and warm chocolate mousse (you can thank us later). La Maison Ani is also home to an exquisite boulangerie and patisserie, both inspired by the daily rituals of French culture. Plus, the menu includes the much-loved Izu burger.
GO: Visit https://fundamentalhospitality.com for more information.
La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie
La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie is aiming big, as it plans to open four new restaurants across Dubai, London, New York and Riyadh. If you want a sneak peek of what you can expect, the 500-seat Riyadh venue will be opening in KAFD soon. Here you can enjoy French cuisine and Parisian chic across a menu that ranges from crêpes and healthy salads to French onion soup, Rossini, French toast, pastries and viennoiseries.
GO: Visit www.laserre.com for reservations and more information.
Le Perroquet
It’s time to say bonjour to a new bistro. The French restaurant Le Perroquet is opening at KAFD in Riyadh. The concept offers a modern twist on traditional French flavours and aims to create a fine dining yet casual experience. Le Perroquet in Riyadh takes its name from the French word for parrot. The logo features a parrot sitting on a branch with leaves. The menu changes weekly and uses seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Le Perroquet in Riyadh aims to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and guests will be greeted as old friends. On Instagram, one of the taglines states: “The place where strangers arrive but leave as friends.”
GO: Follow @leperroquetksa on Instagram for more information.
Liza
MJS Holdings is behind the opening of Liza in Riyadh, and here’s what to expect. Liza can be found on Rue de la Banque, Paris. The décor feels like a Vincent Van Gogh painting come to life, and includes a flower mural on the wall, star-shaped chandeliers, rattan chairs and floor to ceiling windows. Plus, it is a hip hangout, and welcomes artists and DJs in the evenings. The restaurant specialises in Lebanese food, and offers a long list of mezes dishes. The meze includes Artichokes, Falafel, Fattouche, Fries, Hummus with Tahini, and Tabbouleh. The desserts include Baklawa with Liban, Ice Cream and Sorbet, and Maamoul Crumble with Dates.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
MayaBay Riyadh
MayaBay is going global. The Monaco-born restaurant is expanding, having opened its second branch in Dubai in May, it is now set to open its third in Riyadh. While little news has been revealed about MayaBay Riyadh, the website indicates that the new restaurant will open on Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Road. The venue will cover a spacious 600 square meters, including a terrace. We are hoping that the Riyadh restaurant includes some of MayaBay’s signature dishes such as the Maya crispy duck, pad thai, MayaBay sashimi and black cod with miso and honey. Plus, the more indulgent dishes include caviar dim sum wok-fried lobster and wagyu beef sashimi.
GO: Visit www.mayabayrestaurant.com/riyadh for more information.
Mott 32
Mott 32 Riyadh will celebrate the culture and food of modern Hong Kong, marrying traditional Chinese cookery and modern culinary innovation. Incidentally, the venue is named after the address of Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, which opened in 1891. Known for blending authentic Chinese flavours with innovative techniques, the restaurant takes inspiration from Cantonese, Sichuan, and Beijing influences. Standout dishes include the 42-day Apple wood-roasted Peking Duck, signature dim sum, and Wagyu beef. While details of the exact location are still under wraps, the restaurant is expected to draw massive crowds owing to its worldwide reputation.
GO: Visit https://mott32.com for more information.
Nammos
You’ll be feeling the good vibes at Nammos. No matter what time of year it is, Nammos is bringing the Mykonos magic by the hammock load. The restaurant was created in 2003, and first opened on the beach of Psarou, Mykonos. The menu places an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, as it fuses the spirit of the Mediterranean with Asian influences. Nammos has been serving its signature seafood and sushi platters in Dubai and Courchevel. In 2021, Nammos opened a pop-up in Riyadh Oasis, as part of Riyadh Season, and is now set to open a permanent restaurant
GO: Visit www.nammos.com for reservations and more information.
Nobu
Nobu is to restaurants what Robert De Niro is to movies – an award-winning show stopper – which is fitting, given that the brand has the backing of the A-list actor himself. There are not one but two Nobu restaurants in the kingdom: one in Riyadh (which is reopening) and another in Jeddah. This foodie favourite already has venues in Dubai, Las Vegas and London, and you can be sure that the Saudi spot will meet the same high standards. Plus, the classic Nobu staples await – the famous miso-marinated black cod, anyone?
GO: Visit www.nobuhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Pahli Hill
London’s Pahli Hill will be coming to the King Abdullah Financial District. If the restaurant’s London menu is anything to go by, then you’re in for a treat. The menus are a nod to regional classics and are superb for sharing. Visitors can choose from a la carte, chef’s counter, early dinner set menu and Saturday lunch menu. Pahli Hill’s a la carte menu spans small plates, big plates, tandoor and grill and sides. The small plates range from Crispy Khakhra to Mangalore Bun and Scottish Crab Sukkha. The big plates range from Paneer Butter Masala to Wild Sea Bass Steamed in Banana Leaf.
GO: Visit www.pahlihillbandrabhai.com for more information.
Perruche de Pariso
Perruche first opened in Paris, France, and is located in Printemps de l’Homme. The venue boasts a beautiful terrace and Insta-worthy views of the Eiffel Tower. In French, perruche refers to brightly coloured birds from budgies to parrots. The name is represented in the playful logo, which includes three birds. Plus, the tagline is “French farniente”, which refers to the art of being idle. The menu spans starters, fish, meat, pates, sides and desserts. The fish includes Octopus with pumpkin, Scallops with mushrooms, and Steamed Cod with ratatouille. The meats include Beef fillet with French fries, Lamb Shoulder to share for two, and Roasted Chicken with baby potatoes. Plus, desserts range from a Crème Brulee to a Pear and Caramel Tart. Perruche de Pariso will be opened in Saudi Arabia by MJS Holdings and the location is still unknown.
GO: Visit https://mjsholding.com for more information.
Samra
Making the move from Al Qassim Province to Riyadh, quaint and cosy cafe Samra is a celebration of art and food. The space at The Canopy by Oud celebrates the neo-baroque style and will offer a selection of sweets and homely cuisine. Expect the highest international standards with a unique Saudi touch.
GO: Visit www.samra.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Sass Café
Named after its owner “Sassa,” Sass Café has been a firm fixture on Monaco’s dining scene since 1993. Following a successful pop-up in AlUla, Sass Cafe is making its way to Riyadh. Expect fine dining Mediterranean and Italian cuisine and exceptional drinks wrapped up in elegant décor and a timeless charm. A pop-up is also currently underway in AlUla.
GO: Visit sasscafe.com for reservations and more information.
Sexy Fish Riyadh
Sexy Fish is an Asian restaurant and bar offering high-end glamour, surrealist décor and opulent culinary majesty. With opulent interiors, stunning artwork, and a menu inspired by the seas of Asia, Sexy Fish offers all-day and late-night dining and entertainment experiences. The new outpost in Via RIyadh will retain the signature dishes of the original Sexy Fish in London’s Berkeley Square, such as duck salad, smoked tuna belly, crispy eringi mushroom, and black cod with king crab.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Spring Place
Spring Place is a workspace and member’s only club located in New York and Beverly Hills. Founded by Francesco Costa, Alessandro Cajrati Crivelli and Imad Izemrane in 2016, Spring Place combines luxury, exclusivity and collaboration with selective membership programs that are aimed at people who are interested in networking, communicating, and collaborating with other pivotal members in adjacent industries.
GO: Visit www.springplace.com for more information.
Taleed by Michael Mina
Located in Riyadh’s Diriyah district, Taleed by Michael Mina will find a permanent address at the upcoming Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah. This restaurant promises to celebrate Middle Eastern flavours with a focus on Hejazi cuisine. Expect to see the likes of Sayadiah, a beloved saltwater-baked fish, Saleeg, featuring rice and slow-cooked meats, and many more reimagined with a modern twist.
GO: Visit https://www.diriyah.sa/ for more information.
GO: Visit www.diriyah.sa for more information.
tashas café
South African restaurateur Natasha Sideris is bringing tashas café to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Located in KAFD, the café draws inspiration from her Greek heritage and South African upbringing. Natasha already has a firm following in the region. She is from South Africa but resides in the UAE. She opened tashas café in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and it is a popular spot. The menu includes salads, burgers and mains. Dishes include Chicken Milanese, Chicken Pistachio Salad, and Mushroom and Truffle Burger.
GO: Visit www.tashascafe.com for more information.
The Wolseley
The Wolseley is one of London’s most iconic restaurants. Located on Piccadilly, it is famous for its excellent service, grand dining room and brilliant breakfast. Dilip Rajakarier, the new owner of The Wolseley, is behind the expansion plans. He plans to take the restaurant to Hong Kong, New York, Shanghai, Singapore and Saudi Arabia. If the original menu at The Wolseley is anything to go by, we are in for a treat. The European restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The cold breakfast menu includes cereals, fruit and viennoiserie. The hot breakfast menu includes Bagel with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese, French Toast and Mashed Avocado with Confit Tomato. Plus, The English is a classic and comes with fried, poached or scrambled eggs, baked beans, tomato, black pudding and mushrooms.
GO: Visit www.thewolseley.com for more information.
Wadi
We love Saudi Arabian cuisine at FACT, so we’re excited about this latest foodie news – Wadi is coming to Laysen Valley in Riyadh. Scheduled to open in early 2024, the new restaurant will specialise in Saudi fusion cuisine. When we visited Laysen Valley, we spotted the hoarding for Wadi. The name comes from the Arabic word for river. The concept aims to combine high-quality ingredients and a luxurious atmosphere to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Plus, it will offer a shisha menu.
GO: Visit https://laysenvalley.sa for more information.
Zuma
If you’ve never heard of Rainer Becker, we’re pretty sure you’ve heard of his restaurants: ROKA and Zuma. ROKA has already opened to rave reviews in Riyadh, and Zuma is expected to do the same when it opens in KAFD in September. While Rainer could be seen as cannibalising on his own success – the UAE has Zuma Dubai and Zuma Abu Dhabi – we have to say that our stomachs are already rumbling at the thought of Zuma Riyadh. The restaurant aims to give the traditional Japanese izakaya dining experience a sophisticated twist, and is famous for its sushi and sashimi menu, plus seafood and meats from the robata grill.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
