Riyadh is filled with internationally renowned restaurants and great food from numerous cuisines. The local culture is driven by a constant curiosity to explore new dishes, both local and international. The city hosts a vast and ever-growing number of innovative restaurants, expanding month after month.
Having spent around 14 years in the Saudi capital, I’ve witnessed firsthand how some restaurants emerged out of nowhere, grew rapidly, made it onto the city’s most-visited lists, and then gradually faded away until they disappeared entirely from the culinary scene. At the same time, others adapted to change and managed to endure for years.
Amid this ever-evolving dining landscape, there remains a select group of favourite restaurants I return to regularly — or order from at least once a month. They consistently maintain high quality and deliver dishes that don't disappoint. While they may not have received international or even local awards, I wanted to highlight the places that I genuinely enjoy, so that maybe you can try them too.
My favourite breakfast spot: Dawar Al Saada
This restaurant has an inspiring story. It started as a small kiosk in 2021 at Al Aqiq district and has since expanded to more than 160 branches across Saudi Arabia, with additional locations in Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, and most recently Egypt. The secret behind its success lies in quality and flavours at a competitive price point. The concept is simple: traditional, humble buffet-style offerings with reasonable pricing. Their freshly baked round sandwiches filled with chicken, or egg and cheese bring me genuine happiness.
My favourite lunch location: Washna
I occasionally head to Washna, specifically its Tahlia Street location to enjoy authentic Aleppian cuisine. Here, you’ll experience hospitality at its finest, and the dishes will take you on a true journey into one of the world’s most historic cuisines — the menu fuses a selection of dishes from Aleppian cuisine to Syrian, Turkish, and even Armenian influences. If you’re looking for something unique and authentic, I would recommend trying the cherry kebab, where salty and tangy flavours meet in a single dish. The ambiance, with its detailed décor and central fountain, evokes the feeling of being inside a traditional Aleppian home.
My favourite grill restaurant: Saruja
Saruja is my go-to choice whenever I crave perfectly grilled meat and delicious mezze. It has never disappointed me. The restaurant uses fresh meat daily and prepares it with remarkable skill. It began as a small spot in Al Sulaymaniyah district and has since expanded to three branches in the same area, along with others across Riyadh. For large gatherings that I have hosted in my garden, Saruja has always been my go-to choice. With its professional team and modern equipment, live barbecue setups are arranged in front of the guests, and the chefs serve fresh meat straight from the grill to the table.
My favourite dinner destination: Rosa Linda
Every visit to Rosa Linda fills me with joy. The Middle Eastern appetisers crafted by the talented Syrian executive chef Mohammad Hassan, are nothing short of delicious. Located in Al Nakheel district, the restaurant presents dishes in a modern, artistic way that feels like looking at a vibrant painting. In my opinion, Rosa Linda does not receive the recognition it deserves; it really is one of my favourite under-rated restaurants in Riyadh.
My favourite sandwich spot: Dank Sandwich
I’ve always preferred rich flavours and a well-balanced harmony of ingredients in fast food — something most places struggle to deliver. Dank Sandwich breaks that rule. It offers a variety of delicious sandwiches and meal boxes perfect for family gatherings, friends, or work meetings. I hope it continues to stand out as a fast-food brand that genuinely cares about quality.
My favourite restaurants for a special occasion: Signor Sassi
In December 2025, Italian cuisine was officially recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. What better way to celebrate authentic Italian cuisine than at Signor Sassi. Located on Al Dhabab Street — Riyadh’s renowned hub for upscale and fine dining — the restaurant stands out with its elegant white building designed like a luxurious Italian villa. With live piano music in the dining hall, you can enjoy pasta, risotto, and my top recommendation, fettuccine Alfredo — followed, of course, by their signature tiramisu. This is a place to dress up and definitely book in advance.
My favourite meaty restaurant: Meat Moot
At Meat Moot, I often find myself pausing in silence, admiring the plate of smoked meat I've ordered. It has taken 16 hours of slow cooking to prepare, and I like to savour every bite, slowly. Originating from Istanbul, the restaurant excels in smoked meats; Meat Moot is a restaurant worth visiting for those who enjoy a generous cuts and the deep, rich flavours of quality meats. The atmosphere is just as enjoyable as the food. Every hour, there’s a live performance blending Turkish music, fire shows, spices, and salt theatrics — turning the serving process into a memorable experience.
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