Keeping track of all the new restaurant openings in the Kingdom is a full-time job. But if you love finding the latest hotspots for dinner before anyone else, then this is the place for you. These are the hottest new restaurants in Riyadh right now
From upmarket eats in Bujairi Terrace to newly opened treats in Via Riyadh, these are the best new restaurants in the Saudi capital
1: 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.
2: 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.
3: Sisi’s Eatery
Sisi’s Eatery has opened in Riyadh, promising to transport you to the charming streets of Vienne. Located inside Al Nakheel Mall, Sisi’s Eatery merges culture, history, and music. The interiors draw inspiration from the Austrian capital, blending elegance with contemporary style. Expect a monochrome base of black and beige, hints of colour and floral undertones which add vibrancy to the space. With a menu that pays homage to Austria’s rich culinary heritage, diners can enjoy baked goods and speciality coffee. But the star of the Riyadh launch is the Schnitzel — with its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, this dish captures the very essence of Austrian cuisine.
GO: Visit www.sisiseatery.com for more information
4: 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.
5: 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
6: Taleel
Taleel in Riyadh is easy to spot, thanks to its grand green exterior and white logo. The entrance includes a shimmering chandelier, high ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows. The décor boasts a monochrome vibe with black and white tiles, dark leather seats and white walls, which are punctuated by gorgeous greenery. The dining room includes a dramatic indoor tree with white leaves and plenty of potted plants. Take your pick from seats under the pretty lights or in the booths with curved walls for extra privacy. The menu spans soup and salads, hot and cold appetisers, tajine and rice, mains and desserts. The dishes include an Armenian Tabbouleh, Kibbeh Labanieh and Tabbouleh Salad.
GO: Follow @taleel_sa on Instagram for more information.
7: 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.
8: 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.
9: Mallow
The latest addition to Riyadh’s burgeoning breakfast and brunch scene is Mallow. Situated in the vibrant Alyasmin neighbourhood, Mallow serves fluffy French toast, spicy shakshuka, and eggs Benedict croissants in an Insta-worthy setting. Come from the coffee and stay for the croissants.
10: ManuH Lounge
ManuH Cigar Lounge has an air of exclusivity, and boasts one of the largest collections of cigars in the Kingdom – we’re talking 200 cigar lockers. So, puff your way through them, while settling into the luxurious venue situated in Via Riyadh. Culinary delights include caviar, crispy fried olives, beef sandos and a range of Insta-worthy mocktails.
11: 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.
12: 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.
13: 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.
14: 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.
15: 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.
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