Saudi Arabia’s culinary scene has exploded during the last decade. Major global franchises such as the London-based “Roka,” Los Angeles-based “Fat Sal’s,” and Porto Cervo-based “Billionaire” have recently opened their doors in the Kingdom, while local establishments have contemporized their offerings to cater to both the Western and Eastern palates. This combination has created a unique dining experience bursting with international flavors. Here are the U.S.-Saudi Business Council’s top five restaurants to try in Riyadh in 2022.
Breakfast
1. Ohayou
This small but cozy brunch restaurant offers a variety of dishes from Japanese, Arabic, and American cuisine. The restaurant’s signature dish is a man’ousheh, a traditional Arabic flatbread, topped with homemade pesto, zaatar, and mozzarella cheese. Other recommended items include classic French toast and pancakes, eggs benedict with salmon, and from the Japanese menu, a salmon poke. This restaurant does not take reservations so be sure to line up early!
Source: Abbas_Food_Review (Instagram)
2. La Gais
This newly opened spot is a favorite among the locals. La Gais Serves up a large range of Saudi breakfast stews such as “foul,” also known as fava bean stew, “mugalgal,” a meat stew made with chicken or lamb, spices, and tomato sauce, and “shakshoukah,” a dish of eggs poached in tomatoes, garlic, and spices. The restaurant also serves American classics such as eggs benedict, waffles, and French toast. Enjoy either cuisine with the La Gais’s top rated specialty coffee. Tables are in demand so be sure to reserve!
Source: Abbas_Food_Review (Instagram)
Lunch/Dinner
3. Taisty Tais
Looking for a contemporary twist on authentic Saudi food? Visit Taisty Tais and try the “Italian Tasty,” a plate of goat meat mixed with Italian herbs and served on a bed of basmati rice, or the “Chicken Maqloba,” a dish most popular across the Levant and served with vegetables and special spices. Taisty Tais also delivers via local delivery apps.
Source: Abbas_Food_Review (Instagram)
4. Ovvi Lounge & Restaurant
Launched in late 2019, Ovvi Lounge & Restaurant is widely considered one of Riyadh’s trendiest spots, offering western cuisine amidst a luxurious interior. Noteworthy menu items include the black angus tenderloin, OVVI stuffed meat, macaroni gratin, and crispy shrimp – however you really cannot go wrong selecting any of the other items found within the menu. To make the most out of your experience and reel in the full effect of the restaurant’s ambience, be sure to call and request an interior table!
Source: OVVI (Twitter)
5. Porterhouse
A must-go for beef lovers across the Kingdom, Porterhouse combines the best of New York and Australian dry aged prime steaks along with delicious appetizers. Do not leave this establishment without trying the spicy charred edamame, roasted bone marrow, Wagyu rib eye, and warm sticky date cake! Be advised that reservations are necessary for any weekend visits and that children are not allowed in after 7 PM.
Source: Abbas_Food_Review (Instagram)
