These were 2023’s best new restaurants in the Saudi capital.
From Carbone to WAGYUMAFIA, the Saudi Arabian capital saw many respectable restaurants open this year. So whether you’re in search of international heavy-hitters like Bagatelle, Gymkhana and Mr Chow or local hotspots, here are the year’s best new restaurant openings in Riyadh.
Altopiano
Embracing fresh ingredients, Saudi-born brand Altopiano goes the extra mile to produce dishes evoking an authentic taste of Southern Italy but with a Middle Eastern twist. The restaurant at Diriyah’s new Bujairi Terrace uses seasonal and Saudi ingredients wherever possible to bridge the Italian and Arab worlds.
GO: Follow @altopianorestaurant.sa on Instagram for more information.
Bagatelle Riyadh
Transporting the vibrant essence of St. Tropez to Saudi Arabia, Bagatelle Riyadh exudes a contagious joie de vivre and zest for life. Celebrated for its French Mediterranean cuisine, Bagatelle presents an array of signature dishes such as Eggplant Parmigiana, the refreshing Riviera Salad, or the succulent Whole Farm Chicken. To cater to Saudi tastes, the menu also boasts special desserts that ensure a delightful and satisfying conclusion to your dining experience. Read our FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://bagatelle.com for more information.
Bianca Riyadh
The beloved LA-based restaurant and bakery is set to open in 2023. Bianca is the brainchild of Gianni and Nicola Vietina of Madeo Ristorante in partnership with former Four Seasons Hotel Executive Pastry Chef Federico Fernandez. The restaurant at Via Riyadh is a day-to-night destination, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offering a menu influenced by the owners’ Italian, Argentinean and French roots. Expect a wide selection of organic bread and decadent pastries baked daily, in addition to tomato bisque avocado toast, Croque madame and grilled gamberoni.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Brute
Brute is raising the steaks in Riyadh. The Latin American restaurant can be found inside Riyadh’s new Ramla Terraza and specialises in Argentinian steaks. The concept comes from the same team behind another Argentinian steakhouse, Gaucho. Brute is a great spot for groups, as inside, you’ll find long and round tables. Plus, entertainment includes a roving guitarist.
GO: Follow @brute_ksa on Instagram for more information.
Carbone
Carbone at Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Hotel, pays homage to the timeless charm of mid-20th-century Italian-American restaurants in New York. The restaurant was created by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi and Jeff Zalaznick and its New York outpost has attracted A-list diners including Adele, Barack Obama, Jennifer Lopez, the Kardashians and Travis Scott. In Riyadh, diners can expect expertly-crafted Italian dishes served in an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere.
GO: Visit www.radissonhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Chez Bruno
Transported to Riyadh from the French Riviera, where it holds one MICHELIN-star, Chez Bruno immerses diners in fantastic gastronomy based on classic French recipes and the luxurious flavours of truffle. The truffle-based concept is now open at Bujairi Terrace. How decadent.
GO: Follow @chezbrunoksa on Instagram for more information.
Chi Spacca
Get ready to embark on a carnivorous adventure at Chi Spacca, a culinary destination where meat reigns supreme. Led by chef and restaurateur Nancy Silverton, this restaurant takes inspiration from Italy, was born in Los Angeles and has now made its way to Via Riyadh. The name “Chi Spacca” translates to “she or he who cleaves,” symbolising the restaurant’s dedication to exceptional meat cuts. From juicy steaks to homemade pies and irresistible ribs, every dish guarantees an unforgettable journey into the realm of savoury indulgence.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Clap Riyadh
Put your hands together for Clap. The restaurant has venues in Beirut, Dubai and now Riyadh. Following a pop-up for Riyadh Season, the Japanese restaurant has become a permanent fixture at Ramla Terraza. The new venue has a range of seating options, from long banquettes to countertop dining, plus there is a private dining room. Clap is famous for serving top-quality Japanese cuisine. The food menu spans bites, starters, raw, signature rolls, sushi and sashimi. Plus, main courses range from black cod miso to salmon teriyaki.
GO: Follow @clap.riyadh on Instagram for more information.
Dasha
Internationally acclaimed chef Akira Back is among the many celebrity chefs opening restaurants in Saudi Arabia. His modern Chinese restaurant, Dasha, located in The Esplanade, offers a delectable menu of Cantonese Dim Sum, Crispy Prawns with Sriracha Mayo, and Peking Duck. The restaurant’s ambiance features dark wooden panels and tables, complemented by cream chairs and sofas. For those looking to unleash their inner Freddie Mercury, Dasha has a karaoke room where guests can sing their hearts out. This premium karaoke bar offers a more laid-back experience with TV screens, microphones, comfortable sofas, and graffiti-covered walls.
GO: Follow @dasha.ksa on Instagram for more information.
El Camino
El Camino serves marvellous Mexican food in KAFD. The venue is packed with personality and brings South American food as well as fun to the Saudi capital. El Camino is a vibrant spot, which celebrates Mexican culture. The décor boasts cool cacti, colourful sombreros, fringed lamps and shelves lined with vases. The food menu spans starters, seafood, burritos, tacos, quesadillas and desserts. The dishes include Chili Poppers, Guacamole Dona Lupe, Nachos, Shrimp Kupuri, Quesabirrias, Queso Chelito and White Fish Ceviche. Plus, the specials include El Camino Sliders, Filete Chemita and Rice Pasilla.
GO: Follow @elcamino.ksa on Instagram for more information.
ferdi
ferdi, the beloved destination for celebrities in Paris, is now sharing its enchanting ambience with diners in Via Riyadh. Founded by Alicia and Jacques Fontanier, a married couple who named the establishment after their son Ferdinand, ferdi initially began as a cosy, family-owned endeavour. Throughout the years, it has blossomed into an essential stop for anyone seeking an authentic Parisian experience. Among its renowned dishes are the iconic cheeseburger, Ferdi’s delectable Macaroni and Cheese, and the tantalizing Mexican Beef Enchiladas topped with melted cheese.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for more information.
Flamingo Room by tashas
The second Middle Eastern location for Natasha Sideris’ upmarket concept has found a home on Bujairi Terrace. The dining experience at Flamingo Room fuses contemporary craft and African glamour with a menu of fresh seafood, seasonal flavours and Insta-worthy decor. Flamingo Room by tashas personifies African glamour, offering a distinctive dining experience from lunch through to dinner. African Lounge, meanwhile, draws inspiration from the continent’s luxury tented safaris and offers elegant afro-fusion bites, exquisite pastries, and sweets as well as a lavish afternoon tea spread and sophisticated mocktails. At Collective Africa, the group’s Africa-inspired luxury retail store, guests can browse a strongly curated range of designer clothing, home and tableware, and objets d’art. As for Stargaze Garden? The venue’s rooftop setting will offer views over the Wadi Hanifah riverbed, translating into tranquil moments under the stars.
GO: Follow @flamingoroombytashas on Instagram for reservations and more information.
Gymkhana
Inspired by the elite clubs of India where members of high society socialise, eat, drink, and play sports, Gymkhana has become synonymous with classic and contemporary boldly spiced Indian cuisine since its 2013 opening in London’s Mayfair. Now, the Michelin-starred restaurant is set to travel outside of London for the first time as Gymkhana Saudi opens its doors in Riyadh in 2023. All the restaurant’s signature dishes will make the trip to Riyadh, like Chettinad Duck Dosa with Coconut Chutney, Kid Goat Methi Keema with Salli and Pao, Wild Muntjac Biryani and Duck Egg Langoustine Bhurji with Malabar Paratha.
GO Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Hakkasan Riyadh
The Hakkasan brand is known the world over for top-quality Cantonese food. In fact, the London and Dubai branches already have a MICHELIN Star. The stylish Shanghai-inspired mood has been transported to Riyadh’s stunning Bujairi Terrace, complete with a menu of signature dishes, including grilled Chilean seabass in honey, crispy duck salad, and dim sum.
GO: Follow @hakkasanriyadh on Instagram for reservations and more information.
House Of Grill
House of Grill has opened in Fairmont Riyadh, offering a fine dining steakhouse experience from acclaimed chef Nicolas Isnard. The restaurant showcases fresh meat and prime cuts, while the décor boasts Art Deco touches that add old-school glamour. If you love to share your supper on social media, live cooking is available – so, expect to see flames.
GO: Visit www.fairmont.com for more information.
Hualan
Chinese restaurant Hualan makes a triumphant return to town, reopening at the Midtown complex on As Sulamaniyah Road. Tuck into classic Chinese dishes imbued with a modern twist while seated on patterned furniture. Signatures include the whole Peking duck, whilst the honey beef, glazed king prawn, colourful dim sum and selection of fluffy baos also come highly recommended.
GO: Follow @hualan_restaurant on Instagram for more information.
Iris Café
Iris Café is a serene spot. Pass the little lake and tall trees at Ramla Terraza, and you’ll find this cute café. With venues in Bahrain, Lebanon and Qatar, Iris Café is loved for its floral decor and international menu. Settle into one of the semi-circle sofas, and watch the chefs work some dry ice theatrics on the desserts and mocktails.
GO: Follow @iriscaferiyadh on Instagram for more information.
Joan’s On Third
Created by entrepreneur, tastemaker and chef, Joan McNamara, Joan’s on Third is one of LA’s most beloved institutions. This eatery is known as much for its delicious menu as it is for its mouth-watering marketplace. The Riyadh outlet will reflect the LA outpost’s most distinctive features, including the neighbourhood-friendly atmosphere, communal tables, and charming decor. From a freshly prepared beverage menu comprising a variety of bottled fruit juices and ground coffee, warm pastries for the ultimate bakery and café experience; to an extensive selection of artisan cheeses and a deli counter, Joan’s on Third will be the ideal spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
GO: Visit https://joansonthird.com for reservations and more information.
Kintan
Unleash your inner carnivore at the newly opened Kintan. The Japanese BBQ restaurant has bought the yakiniku concept to Riyadh and lets you cook your steak to suit your needs. Located in Al Wadi, this marks the brand’s first expansion into the Middle East. Kintan’s menu spans fish, meats and vegetables, which are suitable to be grilled. The fish includes Miso Butter Salmon, Prawns and Scallop. The meats include Chicken Sweet Soy, Filet Mignon and Premium Rib Eye Steak. The vegetables include Cabbage, Mushroom and Sweetcorn. Plus, there are plenty of classic Japanese dishes including Edamame, Crispy Seaweed, Spring Rolls, and Vegetable Gyoza. The tables include a smokeless BBQ roaster, which has been imported from Japan. Translated: this means the smell of smoke won’t be in your clothes or hair.
GO: Visit https://linktr.ee/kintansaudi for more information.
L’Ami Dave
L’ami Dave is adding some chic to Saudi Arabia having opened in Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel. The setting oozes old school charm – we’re talking Art Deco touches, soft golds, large curved mirrors, peach chairs, white tablecloths and vintage pieces. Oh, and waiters in white dinner jackets. L’ami Dave’s menu has been conceived by Jeff Zalaznick, Mario Carbone and Rich Torrisi. The dishes cover French classics, which use high-quality ingredients. The signature dishes include Carpaccio de Boeuf with Black Truffle, Escargots de Bourgogne and Salade Verte. The mains include Cote de Boeuf, Dover Sole, Poulet Roti and Steak Frites. Plus, desserts include Ananas Tartin, Chocolate Mousse and Fruits de Saison.
GO: Visit https://eatapp.co for more information.
Les Deux Magots
Bringing the picturesque allure of a charming Parisian café to the sophisticated dining landscape of Saudi Arabia, Les Deux Magots is now open in Via Riyadh. The menu offers an array of iconic Parisian delights, including rich coffee blends, delectable freshly baked viennoiseries, fluffy omelettes, steak with crispy fries, and satisfying club sandwiches. Imbued with intricate details, a warm wooden interior, and an inviting luminosity, this enchanting space effortlessly captures the essence of a bygone retro era.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Long Chim
Long Chim, which means “come and taste” in Thai, takes inspiration from Thailand’s markets and street food stalls. With a MICHELIN star in Thailand, Long Chim from acclaimed chef David Thompson brings the flavours of modern Bangkok to Riyadh’s Bujairi Terrace overlooking historic Diriyah.
GO: Follow @longchimksa on Instagram for more information.
Madeo Ristorante
Renowned West Hollywood dining hotspot Madeo Ristorante has brought its culinary excellence to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Now open Via Riyadh, the menu showcases the timeless flavours of traditional Tuscan cuisine, expertly combining the freshest locally sourced ingredients with premium European elements. The new venues in Riyadh and Jeddah will boast a welcoming colour palette, adorned with elegant brass and wood accents, curved booths, and a captivating semi-open kitchen. Read our FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Mr Chow
Celebrities such as Adele, Bella Hadid, and Justin Bieber have been sighted dining at Mr Chow. Known for its restaurants spanning the United States, from Beverly Hills to New York City, this exclusive celebrity hotspot has now made its debut in Riyadh. Executive Chef Jia has crafted the Mr Chow menu in the Saudi capital, featuring dishes such as Chicken Satay, Green Prawns, Peking Duck, and handcrafted noodles. Moreover, patrons can indulge in a captivating hand-pulled noodle presentation, perfect for sharing on social media.
GO: Visit www.mrchow.com for reservations and more information.
Namu
The latest chef to making their mark in Riyadh is the internationally renowned Akira Back. Located in The Esplanade, Namu Korean BBQ draws inspiration from Korea and boasts a menu of freshly prepared meats, seafood, vegetables and traditional Korean food. Plus, the meats can be grilled to your preference on the tabletop barbeques.
GO: Visit www.akiraback.com for more information.
Nozomi
Does the sound of sushi get your mouth watering? Well, Japanese restaurant Nozomi has made a triumphant return to the Riyadh dining scene. Already popular in Al Khobar, the upmarket restaurant prides itself on its critically acclaimed cuisine, which includes sushi, sashimi and salads. Nozomi means wish and desire in Japanese and is making our foodie dreams come true in the capital’s buzzing Al Olaya district.
GO: Follow @nozomiksa on Instagram for more information.
Raoul’s Riyadh
Bringing a taste of New York’s legendary French bistro to Via Riyadh, Raoul’s showcases a traditional interior design, characterised by a sophisticated dark colour palette, intimate spaces, and luxurious red velvet accents. A captivating spiral staircase leads guests to an intimate upstairs lounge, offering a vantage point to observe the vibrant ambience of the restaurant below. The meticulously crafted menu features a delightful selection of carefully chosen favourites and seasonal classics, ranging from decadent foie gras and succulent steak au poivre with frites to organic whole roast chicken, and an impressive oyster tower. Read our FACT Review here.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Robata
MFC’s (the team behind COYA, Beefbar, Billionaire and Signor Sassi) newest venture capitalises on the success of its beloved Japanese concepts, Kayzo and Myazu while introducing an exciting flame-licked twist. Nestled within The Canopy by Oud, Robata aims to embrace the vibrancy of contemporary dining within an Instagram-worthy setting. Guests can anticipate the enticing aroma of charcoal grills and savour a delectable array of meats, seafood, and vegetables, all cooked to perfection on the traditional robatayaki grill.
GO: Visit mfcsaudi.com for reservations and more information.
Rüya Riyadh
Bringing its signature style from Doha, Dubai, and London, Rüya Riyadh captivates diners with its elegant restaurant and lounge experience. Embracing Türkiye’s renowned hospitality, along with its unique design and architecture, this contemporary establishment offers a spacious setting dedicated to exceptional food. The menu boasts star dishes such as the classic pide, a flatbread adorned with bubbling cheeses, melted butter, and a perfectly cooked egg. Indulge in the succulent Cağ kebab, a flame-grilled Turkish delicacy, and explore a mouthwatering array of hot and cold Turkish mezes. Delight in lahmacun, a delicate flatbread topped with flavorful mincemeat and aromatic herbs, or savour the tender lamb shank slow-cooked in a traditional clay oven. Rüya Riyadh promises a sensory journey through the flavours and traditions of Turkey.
GO: Follow @ruya_riyadh on Instagram for more information.
Scott’s Riyadh
Amongst the five oldest restaurants in London, Scott’s was originally opened as an oyster warehouse in 1851 by a young fishmonger named John Scott. When Scott’s moved to its current Mayfair location in 1968, it was one of the most glamorous seafood restaurants in town, frequented by London’s film stars and politicians. Scott’s Riyadh pays homage to the Mayfair flagship with a timber-panelled dining room, burgundy leather banquettes, silver-leaf mirrored screens and a stingray-fronted bar in Via Riyadh. The menu offers traditional fish and seafood dishes alongside a variety of meat and seasonal game favourites. Oysters, served at Scott’s elegant oyster bar, are a house speciality.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Spago by Wolfgang Puck
In 1982, Wolfgang Puck introduced his inaugural restaurant, Spago to diners in Los Angeles. The sleek and minimalist design of Spago has come to epitomise the essence of refined dining and has now found a new home in Via Riyadh. With its market-inspired menu and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service, Spago has attained a truly legendary status. The single-page menu is printed daily to evolve with the changing seasons. One day, the burrata might be served with strawberries, the next with melon. However, the fried blooming whole seabass with a sweet and sour pineapple glaze shouldn’t be missed. Read our FACT Review here.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Tatel
With outposts in Madrid, Doha, Ibiza and Los Angeles, Tatel in Riyadh offers Spanish haute cuisine accompanied by creative mocktails, musicians and daily live entertainment. Tatel’s menu offers traditional Spanish recipes with a twist of sophistication and innovation in dishes such as Tatel semolina risotto with grated truffle, fried eggs with red tuna tartare, slow-cooked beef ribs, and cured beef croquettes.
GO: Follow @tatel.riyadh on Instagram for reservations and more information.
WAGYUMAFIA Riyadh
WAGYUMAFIA celebrates the qualities and versatility of Japan’s most famous beef. With the title of serving the world’s number one beef, they are also a leader in the Kobe beef export business. Chef Founder Hisato Hamada consistently tours the world, evangelising their product through events and pop-ups. Launched in 2016, WAGYUMAFIA became a global sensation after introducing the world’s most expensive sandwich, the Kobe Beef Chateaubriand Cutlet Sandwich, which has since become an often-imitated creation. Taking signature elements from its Tokyo restaurants, WAGYUMAFIA Riyadh will offer an omakase menu with signature dishes, as well as original creations available only in Riyadh.
GO: Follow @wagyumafia.sa on Instagram for more information.
YAKINIKUMAFIA by WAGYUMAFIA
Redefining the age-old Japanese technique of grilling meat over a fire, YAKINIKUMAFIA by WAGYUMAFIA is a new addition to the dining scene of Saudi Arabia that celebrates sustainably raised, single-breed wagyu and cutting-edge butchery techniques that minimize wastage. The menu not only features a wide range of wagyu cuts but also centres on a buildable or customizable offering. The show stealer is the rare cut wagyu paired with signature wagyu bone broth. Depending on the availability of the meat, a different rare cut is offered every day, adding an element of surprise.
GO: Follow @yakinikumafia.sa on Instagram for more information.
