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 restaurants 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. 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.
2. 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.
3. Jackie
Easy-going restaurant Jackie is housed inside the glamorous St Regis Riyadh 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Hōchō
The large, dramatic open kitchen at Hōchō is the perfect centrepiece to a restaurant that entertains and enthralls while dishing up delectable treats. Their Kobe beef may be the star of the show, but there's also a range of incredible sushi dishes on offer; Japanese flavours blended beautifully with the spirit of the Silk Road.
The interiors are softly lit with warm colours and Japanese stylings, and al fresco seating is available if you'd prefer to dine beneath the stars. For those who are celebrating a special occasion, there's the option of the Rubi Room, a private dining space where Chef Hassan's imagination runs riot across an omakase-style menu.
