Looking for the perfect spot to meet with friends or celebrate a special occasion? Head to Via Riyadh. A modern development with premium shopping, dining and entertainment options in the heart of the Kingdom's capital, this zone has become the city's go-to hotspot for both high-end and casual dining.
The list of eateries here reads like a who’s who of the world’s top dining experiences, with big hitters from New York to London via Paris all opening branches here, along with plenty of home-grown talent and Saudi flavours in the mix.
From family-friendly burger joints to romantic fine-dining restaurants, these are the best places to eat in Via Riyadh.
1. Café ELLE
Aesthetics are everything at Café ELLE, just as you’d expect from a cafe launched by the people behind the famous fashion magazine brand. Inspired by ‘fashion moments,’ the decor – blush pink seating and long mirrors – is as elegant and beguiling as the food. The menu has classic dishes including Caesar salad, steak tartare and smoked salmon royale, but it’s the desserts that really stand out.
Try beautifully presented sweet treats such as the Raspberry Chocolate Delight topped with candy floss or Elle’s signature Flaming Croquembouche, which comes coated with pink chocolate.
2. Ferdi
The original Ferdi in Paris is something of a celebrity haunt (Gigi Hadid and Kim Kardashian have both been spotted there), and is loved for its quirky style, unpretentious atmosphere and reliable comfort food. Fortunately the Via Riyadh branch offers much of the same, with cheeseburgers, guacamole with nachos, and macaroni cheese among other favourites on offer. As for the decor, it’s a riot of retro toys and red velvet seating – definitely a memorable place to enjoy an evening meal with friends.
3. Gymkhana
British Indian food at its finest, Gymkhana’s London restaurant has two Michelin stars, earned for its fabulous tandoori grilled meats, fragrant biryanis and spicy curries. This classic Indian fine dining experience can now be had in the capital of the Kingdom, at one of Via Riyadh’s largest and most elegant restaurants. Gymkhana is inspired by the traditional, high-society social and sports clubs of India, and the dark furnishings, moody lighting and dressed-up crowds give it a sophisticated vibe.
4. Jackie
Easy-going restaurant Jackie is housed inside the glamorous St Regis hotel in Via Riyadh and serves up a menu of satisfying American and Greek food. The seafood selection is great, with lobster, grilled octopus and sea bass on the menu and there are also creamy Greek dips, salads and risottos available. Expect lavish spreads and upbeat, family-friendly entertainment while you eat.
5. Les Deux Magots
Modern French cuisine is served at Les Deux Magots’ Via Riyadh address, including all the iconic Parisian café’s favourites; steak frites, silky omelettes, grilled salmon and, of course, a spectacular selection of French pastries. Don’t leave without trying the world-famous hot chocolate that the original café is known for. Thick and smooth, it can be ordered any time of day or night – you won’t regret it.
6. Madeo
One of the trendiest Hollywood power lunch spots of the 90s, Madeo is still going strong, serving authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on hearty Tuscan dishes. The Via Riyadh menu is a mouthwatering list of rich pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, salads and tasty antipasti. The simple, smart dining room with white linens and indoor olive trees makes Madeo a great place for getting together with family.
7. Over Under
It doesn’t matter who you’re meeting or what kind of mood you’re in, Over Under is going to hit the spot. The founder is a Londoner via New York, and has designed this casual cafe to be a great hangout. By day, Over Under serves great specialty coffee and Western-style dishes (think Reuben toasties, pancakes and avocado on toast).
At night there’s a complete vibe change, when the menu switches to party food and mocktails. Invite friends along, order nachos, beef sliders and loaded fries for the table and a round of London Sour mocktails, and you’ll be set up for a fun night ahead.
8. Spago by Wolfgang Puck
Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck brings his signature Californian cuisine to Riyadh at Spago – but has given many popular dishes a very Saudi spin. Crispy camel dumplings are served with garlic yoghurt sauce, while the grilled sea bream is fresh from Gulf waters. The restaurant itself is sleek and understated, with warm woods and soft neutral furnishings providing the perfect backdrop for the fresh, seasonal food.
9. Raoul's
Whether you’re stopping by for one of the famed Raoul’s burgers, a juicy steak or an indulgent serving of cream-filled profiteroles, you can expect a lot of New York flavour at this trendy bistro. One of Via Riyadh’s most vibrant restaurants, the atmosphere is lively and glamorous, with neon accents livening up the old-world decor.
10. Scott's
If you feel like going really upmarket for dinner, Scott’s is an excellent choice. The elegant seafood restaurant is a transplant from London’s Mayfair and has a clubby, exclusive atmosphere, with formal service and a smart dress code. The high-end seafood menu is mouthwatering (and pricey) – splash out on Siberian caviar served with blinis and crème fraiche or platters of Gillardeau Oysters for a real treat. The Via Riyadh branch hosts lively Jazz and Blues nights twice a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays.
