The restaurant in KAFD will showcase a Japanese izakaya experience.
Saudi Arabia has welcomed dining heavyweights, from big brands to celebrity chefs. Now, the Japanese juggernaut Zuma is heading to KAFD, Riyadh, and is expected to open in October. Here’s what you need to know about the world-famous, celebrity-favourite Japanese restaurant.
In 2002, Rainer Becker launched his first-ever restaurant, Zuma. In 2004, he gave it a culinary cousin, ROKA. Both restaurants opened in London, but the brands have spread worldwide. Today, Zuma can be found in Abu Dhabi, Cannes, Doha, Hong Kong, Las Vegas, Miami, New York, and Rome.
The announcement of Zuma Riyadh’s December opening was made on the brand’s official Instagram account. A video shows Zuma-branded London black cabs driving through the Saudi capital and past the KAFD skyline. The caption reads: “Born in London in 2002 — coming to Riyadh, December 2024.”
In 2021, Zuma entered Saudi Arabia’s dining scene as a pop-up in Riyadh Season. Now, it’s set to have a permanent residence in the capital. Zuma will draw inspiration from Japan and KAFD. Eechoing the celebrated dining concept established in global cities like Bangkok, Dubai and London. This two-story venue, connected by a dramatic spiral staircase, features three distinct kitchens: the main kitchen, a robata grill, and a sushi counter. Guests can explore a dynamic restaurant and lounge space, complete with sushi counters, a signature bar, and a DJ booth that sets an energetic tone throughout.
Zuma in Riyadh’s menu will showcase the signature izakaya flavours. The menus around the world showcase maki rolls, nigiri, sushi, sashimi and seasonal dishes. The signature dishes include Japanese Mushroom Rice Hotpot, Miso Corn Fed Baby Chicken, and Spicy Beef Tenderloin. And, the world-famous dish is the Miso Marinated Black Cod, which is served in hoba leaf.
If you can’t wait for Zuma, head to ROKA Riyadh. Located in As Sulimaniyah, the Japanese robatayaki experience echoes its restaurants across the world, from Dubai to London. The signature dishes include Lamb Cutlets with Korean spices, and the infamous Baked Potato with yuzu cream and chives.
The Kingdom’s MJS Holding is behind the opening. The brands include AOK Kitchen, Il Baretto, Jon & Vinny’s, Mr Chow, and Rüya. The hospitality group also announced that it is bringing the restaurants Gina, Il Bambini Club, Liza, and Perruche de Pariso to Saudi Arabia. Plus, it will be opening Arcade Food Hall, which can already be found in London’s Tottenham Court Road and Battersea.
Set to open reservations in November, Zuma Riyadh’s arrival marks an exciting milestone for Saudi Arabia’s culinary landscape.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
