Saudi Arabia
Saudi cuisine is deeply rooted in Bedouin traditions, emphasizing hospitality, simplicity, and the use of fresh, locally available ingredients. Its position as a historical trade route has also brought influences from Middle Eastern, Indian, and North African culinary traditions.
Sharing food is a central aspect of Saudi culture, with meals often served on large platters for communal eating, symbolizing generosity and community.
As the capital and a melting pot of cultures, Riyadh’s culinary scene extends beyond traditional Najdi (central Saudi) cuisine. You find influences from Hijazi (western, coastal) cuisine, known for its seafood and different rice preparations.
The Eastern Province brings its own distinct flavors, and the southern region of Asir contributes unique dishes. These regional variations enrich the local dining landscape.
Riyadh presents a vast array of international cuisines, reflecting its diverse expatriate population. You can find Lebanese, Indian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Egyptian, Italian, American, and many other international dining options.
Considered the national dish, this fragrant rice dish comes cooked with tender meat (chicken, lamb, or camel) and aromatic spices like cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon. Served on a large platter, often garnished with nuts and raisins.
Find at traditional Saudi restaurants like Najd Village or Al Romansiah.
Variations of slow-cooked meat (lamb or chicken) served over aromatic rice, often cooked in a tandoor-like underground pit, which yields a distinct smoky flavor and incredible tenderness. Mandi maintains particular popularity.
Many local Saudi restaurants specialize in these dishes.
Saleeg: creamy rice with broth and milk. Jareesh: porridge from cracked wheat. Thareed: hearty stew of vegetables and meat over flatbread.
Comforting and hearty dishes, widely available.
Lightly roasted coffee brewed with cardamom, often served in small, handle-less cups with dates. This is a powerful symbol of Saudi hospitality and a must-try. Non-alcoholic.
Karak Tea: a strong, spiced milky tea. Laban: a savory, refreshing yogurt drink. Fresh juices are widely available. Note: Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the Kingdom.
Riyadh possesses a rapidly growing fine dining scene, with numerous international celebrity chef restaurants and high-end eateries. These locations frequently populate luxury hotels and new developments like Via Riyadh, Riyadh Front, and KAFD.
Abundant options delivering a wide range of cuisines, including Saudi, Lebanese, Indian, Italian, American, and more. You find these in major shopping malls, standalone restaurants along popular dining streets, and various commercial centers.
Scattered throughout the city, specifically in older districts like Batha and Al-Malaz, and around local markets. Look for small "restaurants" specializing in Kabsa, Mandi, or popular shawarma joints.
Due to its diverse expatriate population, Riyadh presents a vast selection of international cuisines, permitting discovery of almost any type of food desired.
Expect options from across the globe, from Lebanese to American.
While traditional markets may contain small, simple eateries, newer developments sometimes present modern food halls with diverse culinary offerings from various vendors.
A good spot for varied quick bites.
Often a light meal, including bread, cheese, olives, and foul medames. Typically in the earlier morning.
The main meal, typically between 1 PM and 3 PM. Features large rice dishes with meat for sharing.
Generally lighter than lunch and eaten later in the evening, often after 8 PM. Many people socialize over dinner.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. No alcoholic beverages are served or sold.
Awareness of dietary restrictions like gluten-free requirements grows, notably in high-end establishments and international restaurants.
Direct communication with restaurant staff is advised.
Learning basic Arabic phrases aids clear explanation of dietary restrictions. Carrying an Allergy translation card in Arabic helps convey your needs accurately to restaurant staff.
This proactive approach helps manage meal selections.
Breakfast typically represents a lighter meal. Lunch is the main meal, often between 1 PM and 3 PM, featuring large, shared rice dishes. Dinner usually comes lighter and later, after 8 PM.
While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated for good service. A general guideline is to round up or add 5-10% in casual dining. For fine dining, 10-15% is common.
Some private tour operators or cultural centers may present Saudi cooking classes, delivering hands-on experience with local dishes.
Formal, organized food tours appear limited, but local guides can often arrange personalized culinary experiences.
Occasionally held during cooler months, often as part of larger events like Riyadh Season. These festivals deliver opportunities to sample diverse foods and experience the local culinary scene.
Often a light meal, which might include bread, cheese, olives, and foul medames (stewed fava beans). It typically proceeds earlier in the morning.
A common start to the day.
The main meal of the day. It typically takes place between 1 PM and 3 PM. This meal often features large rice dishes with meat, like Kabsa or Mandi, for sharing.
The most substantial meal.
Small, triangular fried pastries filled with savory options like minced meat, cheese, or vegetables. A beloved snack, especially during Ramadan.
Sweet, crispy fried dough balls, often drizzled with date syrup or honey. A popular dessert, notably for gatherings.
A rich cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, often topped with pistachios. It features a crispy, buttery exterior and a warm, gooey cheese filling.
Exploring Riyadh's culinary scene extends beyond taste; it's a journey into local culture and hospitality.
