Must-Try Foods In Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The city of Riyadh, with its rich history dating back to pre-Islamic times, has a culinary heritage deeply rooted in Arabian traditions. The cuisine of Riyadh has been influenced by its role as the political and economic center of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The food reflects the nomadic lifestyle of its early inhabitants and the spices traded along the ancient caravan routes. Traditional cooking methods in Riyadh rely heavily on roasting and slow-cooking, allowing for deep, complex flavors. Grains like wheat, barley, and rice have long been staples, along with dates, which are prolific in the region. Over time, the discovery of oil and the subsequent development led Riyadh to become a cosmopolitan city, introducing an array of international cuisines to the local dietary landscape.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

1. Kabsa - A quintessential Saudi dish made with rice, vegetables, and chicken or lamb (Non-Veg).
2. Shawarma - Middle Eastern meat preparation, where chicken or other meats are grilled on a spit and served in a wrap or sandwich (Non-Veg).
3. Falafel - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce (Veg).
4. Tabouleh - A fresh salad dish made of tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, bulgur, and onion, seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt (Veg).
5. Hummus - A creamy dip made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic (Veg).
6. Mutabbaq - A popular street food, this is a stuffed pancake or folded omelette dish (Non-Veg, though vegetarian options may be available).
7. Ful medames - A hearty dish made of fava beans cooked with cumin, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil (Veg).
8. Samboosa - A savory triangular pastry snack often filled with spiced meats or vegetables (Non-Veg or Veg).
9. Maamoul - A traditional shortbread pastry filled with dates, pistachios, or walnuts (Veg).
10. Mansaf - Lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur (Non-Veg).

Top Famous Restaurants in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Al Orjouan - The Ritz-Carlton, AlHada Area, Mekkah Road

Famous food: Buffet with a variety of Arabian and International cuisines (Non-Veg & Veg available)

The Globe - Al Faisaliah Tower, King Fahad Road

Famous food: Contemporary European dishes with a panoramic view of the city (Non-Veg & Veg available)

Najd Village - Abdullah bin Hizam St, Al Murabba

Famous food: Traditional Saudi fare in an authentic setting (Non-Veg & Veg options available)

Al Nakheel - Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Rd, As Sulimaniyah

Famous food: Middle Eastern cuisine with Lebanese specialties (Non-Veg & Veg available)

Lusin - Centria Mall, Olaya St

Famous food: Armenian dishes with a contemporary twist (Non-Veg & Veg options available)

Burj Al Hamam - Al Faisaliah Mall, Olaya Street

Famous food: Lebanese cuisine, particularly known for their Mezze platters (Non-Veg & Veg available)

Yauatcha - Al Faisaliah Mall, Olaya St

Famous food: High-end dim sum and contemporary Cantonese delicacies (Non-Veg & Veg options)

Nozomi - Dabab Street, Al Sulimaniyah

Famous food: Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on sushi and sashimi (Non-Veg & Veg available)

Mamo Michelangelo - Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulaziz Rd, As Sulimaniyah

Famous food: Italian-Mediterranean fusion with an elegant ambiance (Non-Veg & Veg options)

Tokyo Restaurant - Takhasosi St, Al Mathar Ash Shamali

Famous food: A wide array of Japanese dishes, including tempura and teppanyaki (Non-Veg & Veg options)