Best Dining Experiences in Riyadh 2025: From Traditional Breakfast to World‑Class Brunch

Riyadh • 2025 Food & Dining Read time: 6 min

#Breakfast#Brunch#CafeCulture

Introduction

In Riyadh, food isn’t just about eating — it’s a cultural journey from the heart of Saudi tradition to world‑class gastronomy. By 2025, the capital has become a haven for food lovers, blending authentic local flavors with luxurious international dining in a vibrant, ever‑evolving scene.

Heritage meets innovation on the Riyadh table.

1) Traditional Breakfast: Starting the Day the Authentic Way

Saudi‑Style Liver (Kibda)

Fresh bread + green onions

A beloved morning staple served at popular spots like Al Diriyah Heritage Restaurant and Zaman Al Khair Kitchen.

Tamees with Adeni Tea

Warm oven, cardamom aroma

Soft Afghan‑style bread perfect for dipping in foul or cheese, paired with spiced Adeni milk tea.

Mutabbaq (Sweet & Savory)

Golden and crispy

Yemeni‑inspired pastry filled with banana or minced meat, cooked to golden perfection.

💡 Pair sweet mutabbaq with Sidr honey, and the savory with a drizzle of tahini.

2) International Dining That Rivals Global Capitals

From live stations to curated tasting menus.

Al Orjouan — The Ritz‑Carlton

Riyadh’s iconic Friday brunch

Live cooking stations and global favorites in a refined setting.

Hakkasan Riyadh

Modern Chinese, luxe mood

Known for dim sum, seafood, and elevated Asian flavors.

Roka Riyadh

Robatayaki & creative sushi

Contemporary Japanese with charcoal‑grilled specialties.

3) Fine Dining with Exclusive Experiences

Plating as art, service as theatre.

Toplum

European plates, Saudi twist

Beautifully presented dishes with balanced flavors.

Nozomi

Wagyu & premium sushi

Upscale Japanese dining with contemporary touches.

MYAZU

Innovative Japanese menu

Recognized among the top restaurants in the Middle East.

4) Riyadh’s Café Culture: Specialty Coffee Meets Design

Third‑wave coffee in design‑led spaces.

Camel Step Coffee Roasters

Local roasting craft

A pioneer of specialty coffee in Saudi Arabia.

Brew92

Creative cups

Inventive coffee drinks paired with fresh pastries.

Spaces Café

Work‑friendly ambiance

Design‑focused space ideal for reading, work, or casual meets.

5) Street Food & Food Trucks

Gourmet to grab‑and‑go across the city.

Boulevard Riyadh City

Endless variety

Dozens of trucks — from gourmet burgers to fresh sushi.

The Zone

Creative local concepts

A trendy hub featuring youthful, homegrown eateries.

Seasonal Events

Pop‑ups during Riyadh Season

Fusion bites and experimental street food.

6) Pro Tips for Food Lovers

• Mix casual street eats with upscale fine dining for the full picture.
• Reserve in advance for popular spots, especially on weekends.
• Don’t miss Saudi desserts like Luqaimat or Kunafa.

✔️ Pro tip: keep a small budget for daily specials — they’re often the happiest surprises.

Conclusion

Riyadh’s 2025 dining scene shows a city where heritage meets innovation. Every meal is more than food — it’s a flavorful memory in the making.