Discover FACT’s top dining experiences in the Kingdom.
The FACT Dining Awards Riyadh 2024 saw 43 awards given out across 21 categories, covering more than 200 hotels and independent restaurants.
The annual awards are a celebration of the Kingdom’s vibrant food and beverage scene, where winners are awarded based on both public votes and critics’ opinions. Each category features two awards, the BEST and the FAVOURITE. The BEST is the editor’s choice, decided by the FACT editorial team and an independent panel of industry experts, whilst the FAVOURITE is determined through an online public vote. So, without further ado, here are the 2024 winners, as chosen by the FACT editorial team.
All Day Dining Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: La Brasserie in Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah is located in one of Riyadh’s most iconic buildings. La Brasserie is a modern, multi-cuisine restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The space boasts interactive stations, buffets and an à la carte menu. The breakfast spread is extensive, and includes a gluten-free corner, freshly baked pastries and specials ranging from Chilaquiles to Moroccan Shakshuka.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Al Orjouan in The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, is one of the most glamorous hotels in the capital. Al Orjouan is its all-day dining restaurant, which hosts buffets and themed nights, ranging from Butcher’s Night to Seafood Night. Diners can indulge in international and Middle Eastern flavours in the opulent setting.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for reservations and more information.
Casual Dining Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Black Tap in KAFD
Black Tap injects fun into King Abdullah Financial District. Great for families, the casual diner is famous for its Insta-worthy Crazyshakes. The dessert meets milkshake looks like a Willy Wonka creation, as they are piled high with ice cream, toppings and endless sweet treats. The burgers are also a draw, and range from cheeseburgers to chicken burgers.
GO: Visit https://blacktap.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Jones The Grocer in Fairmont Ramla
Jones The Grocer is the place to go for a charming café, and it has become a firm favourite with locals and the FACT Dining Awards. Founded in 1996 in Australia, it prides itself on creating gourmet food for everyday life. The brand has expanded with 34 stores worldwide and cafés in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Riyadh, and beyond. The casual café is family-friendly and offers breakfasts, patisserie, and a strong selection of coffee.
GO: Visit www.jonesthegrocer.com for reservations and more information.
Breakfast in Riyadh 2024
Best: A.O.K Kitchen in KAFD
A.O.K Kitchen in King Abdullah Financial District is a casual yet chic spot for afternoon tea. The name stands for all is okay, and sums up the brand’s philosophy of a feel-good dining experience. The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients from artisanal producers, and offer wholesome plates inspired by the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean and California. The afternoon tea is free from refined sugar and limited in gluten and dairy. The result: a light meal that feels as good as it tastes. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.aokkitchen.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Urth Caffé in Various Locations
If you’re looking to catch the crowds, then head to Urth Caffe. The brand started in 1989, and can be found in Dubai, Japan and Saudi Arabia. The Riyadh venues are always buzzing with locals and expats, especially at lunchtime on the weekends. The menu includes Breakfast Burritos, Classic Belgian Waffles and Stuffed French Toast.
GO: Visit www.urthcaffe.sa for reservations and more information.
Café in Riyadh 2024
Best: NOOA in Laysen Valley
Nooa stands for Naturally Out Of Africa, and draws its inspiration from South Africa. The restaurant feels like a breath of fresh air with its contemporary, clean and classy design. The kitchen prides itself on using ingredients and influences from South Africa, which have bursts of rooibos and honeybush. The menu will surprise you with its savoury and sweet selection. Don’t leave without trying the desserts, which include Date Malva Pudding, Honeybush Crème Brulee and Orange and Chocolate Cake. The drinks include speciality coffee, single origin, rooibos and botanic mixology. The Grade A rooibos speciality drinks had us hooked. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Follow @nooasaudi on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: ½ Million in Al Olaya
Saudi Arabians know their coffee. The homegrown brand, ½ Million, caused quite a stir in the Kingdom’s coffee scene and is loved by locals. The hot and cold drinks range from a Spanish Latte to iced mocktails, and the sweet treats range from cakes to ice creams. The brand recently expanded to London’s Soho and is just as popular with queues around the block.
GO: Visit https://halfm.sa for reservations and more information.
Afternoon Tea in Riyadh 2024
Best: Mamo Michelangelo in Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah
Mamo Michelangelo has brought a touch of the South of France to Riyadh. It is located in the Al Fasaliah Hotel and has a loyal fanbase in the capital (and beyond). The venue feels like a French country house, decorated with lemon trees (they’re even hand-painted onto the plates), market-style stalls, and cellars. The ingredient-driven menu offers a traditional afternoon tea with an Italian twist. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://mamo-michelangelo.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Savoy Lounge in Fairmont Riyadh
Savoy Lounge at Fairmont Riyadh offers amazing afternoon tea. The menu includes light snacks, gourmet sweets, chocolates and dates. Served on smart crockery and in a sophisticated setting, it offers a memorably experience with pretty desserts.
GO: Visit www.fairmont.com for reservations and more information.
Outdoor Dining in Riyadh 2024
Best: Le Maschou in Diplomatic Quarter
Fine dining French restaurant Le Maschou has welcomed Cristiano Ronaldo, David Guetta and Steve Aiko into its comforting confines. Located in the heart of Riyadh’s vibrant Al Safarat neighbourhood, the restaurant offers diners an epicurean journey through French cuisine. The original Le Maschou can be found in Cannes, but the Riyadh outpost captures much of the charm of the French flagship, with brushed stone walls, atmospheric lighting, bold artwork and antique mirrors. The rustic ambience is complemented by hearth-roasted ingredients from the open fire, where popular choices include dry-aged beef, roasted chicken and salmon fillets.
GO: Visit https://lemaschou.sa for reservations and more information.
Favourite: HUQQA Riyadh in U Walk
HUQQA Riyadh is a hip and happening place that showcases Turkish cuisine. Located on U Walk, the venue is buzzing with outdoor activities. Come for the Turkish breakfast and stay for the Turkish coffee. The menu includes Avocado Mushroom Benedict, Grilled Halloumi Toast, and Truffle Scrambled Egg Simit. Plus, they serve shisha upon the biggest rooftop terrace in the capital.
GO: Visit https://huqqa.com for reservations and more information.
International Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Flamingo Room by tashas in Bujairi Terrace
Originating in Dubai, Flamingo Room has been effortlessly transported into a three-storey space that exudes charm and sophistication on the banks of the Wadi Hanifah. The concept personifies African glamour, offering a distinctive dining experience from lunch to dinner. Dishes include Cornflake Chicken Schnitzel and Peri-Peri Baby Chicken. Save room for dessert because the South African-inspired Amira combines malva pudding with macerated apricot and spiced créme anglaise. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.flamingoroombytashas.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Mayrig in Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences
Mayrig is poised to elevate the capital’s gastronomic landscape. Located in Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, the Mediterranean-Armenian restaurant blends the richness of flavours, textures and cultural stories. Passed down from generation to generation, the menu reflects the commitment to authenticity. Dishes include cold and hot mezze, refreshing salads, tantalising slow-cooked stews, an extensive selection of succulent grilled meats, and desirable desserts.
GO: Visit https://www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.
American Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Smokey Beards Q in Hittin
Smokey Beards Q may serve American food, but it was created in Saudi Arabia. The homegrown concept has been impressing diners with its welcoming atmosphere and generous portions. The menu draws inspiration from the southern states and includes burgers and brisket. American rapper Mutah Beale is behind the brand, and Kanye West was recently spotted at the restaurant.
GO: Follow @smokeybeardsq on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Don Ruben’s Mexican Restaurant in Diplomatic Quarter
Don Ruben’s Mexican Restaurant brings the taste of Mexico to Riyadh. Look out for the fun-filled events, which take place during the week. The Spicy Taco Challenge takes place on Sunday and Monday, and challenges diners to taste the heat. Taco Tuesday takes place on Tuesday and offers diners all they can eat with asada and chicken tacos starting from SAR 100.
GO: Follow @donrubens.sa on Instagram for more information.
Pan Asian Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Namu in The Esplanade
Akira Back is loved across the Middle East. He has made his mark in Riyadh with his restaurants and opened Namu Korean BBQ in The Esplanade. Drawing inspiration from Korea, the menu boasts freshly prepared meats, seafood, vegetables, and traditional Korean food. Guests can also cook and grill meats to their preference. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.akiraback.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Yauatcha in Al Olaya
Yauatcha has made its mark in Riyadh and is one of the city’s best Chinese restaurants. From the team behind Hakkasan, the concept aims to be an accessible fine dining experience. The menu includes dim sum, tea and pastries. Look out for special menus throughout the year, from Valentine’s Day to Chinese New Year. We’d recommend sitting on the terrace for a stellar view.
Middle Eastern Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Em Sherif Café in The Zone
Nestled within The Zone, Em Sherif Café invites diners to experience authentic Lebanese delicacies in a new light. The menu offers a fresh take on Middle Eastern cuisine and masterfully blends local, seasonal, fresh, and organic ingredients. Among the signature dishes, you’ll discover the famous Lebanese Tabbouleh in three variations: classic creamy hummus adorned with roasted pine nuts and the flavoursome Kishk and Awarma. Em Sherif Café has become a culinary sensation across Egypt, Lebanon, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE, enchanting diners with its exquisite Lebanese fare and warm hospitality.
GO: Visit https://emsherif-cafe.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Yawmiyat By Dalal in Al Wurud
Yawmiyat By Dalal personifies Lebanese hospitality. The restaurant offers classic as well as contemporary Lebenese dishes. Created by Chef Dalal Haj Ibrahim, the Olaya Street venue has a firm following. The menu spans mixed grill, kibbeh and desserts, from Mahalabia to Rice Pudding. Plus, it’s an affordable spot, as many dishes are under SAR 100.
GO: Follow @yawmiyatbydalal on Instagram for more information.
Steakhouse in Riyadh 2024
Best: Marble Steakhouse in Turki Square
Marble Steakhouse has been, well, raising the steaks. The sophisticated yet simple approach is what sets it apart. The menu includes only four mains with a side of fries, and each dish has been cooked to perfection. The options range from the Marble Bun to the Ribeye Steak, which are made from high-quality ingredients. Not only is it a FACT Dining Award winner, but it also got a nod from the MENA’s 50 Best.
Favourite: Habra in MEFIC Centre
Habra made its way from Kuwait to Riyadh. Located in MEFIC Center, it pitches itself as a beef canteen (but there are also vegetarian options). The menu boasts premium cuts of steak, from a 400g Wagyu Ribeye to a 200g Tenderloin. Plus, the venue is a trendy spot for Riyadh, thanks to its industrial chic vibe.
GO: Follow @habraksa on Instagram for more information.
Indian Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Gymkhana in Via Riyadh
Gymkhana is loved by celebrities, critics, and the FACT Team. The restaurant first opened in London in 2013 and now calls Riyadh home. Located in Via Riyadh, the concept draws its inspiration from Indian gymkhana clubs, which were popular during colonial times. The menu is filled with flavours from North India and offers a contemporary twist on classic dishes. Read our full FACT review here.
GO Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Mohalla Riyadh in The Esplanade
Dubai’s homegrown restaurant Mohalla has made its mark on Riyadh. Located in The Esplanade, the concept pays homage to the rich culinary cultures across India. The signature dishes include Avocado Papdi Chaat, Keema Pao, Spicy Chili Chicken and the always-popular jalebi. Sit near the open kitchen, which allows diners to catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes action.
GO: Visit https://mohalla.co for reservations and more information.
Italian Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Il Baretto in KAFD
Il Baretto is one of the classiest restaurants in the city. This was the first restaurant to open in King Abdullah Financial District, and it brought a true taste of Italy to the heart of Riyadh. Drawing its influences from regional Italian specialities, the menu showcases premium dishes with lobster, oyster and Wagyu. Don’t miss the northern Italian-influenced pizza, which is cooked in an open wood-burning oven. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.ilbaretto.sa for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Carbone Riyadh in Mansard Riyadh
Few restaurants make it into a Drake song. Italian American hotspot Carbone has featured in Spin Bout U, and is a hit with A-list diners. The New York-born restaurant opened in Riyadh, and the menu is a love letter to Italian American cuisine. It spans appetisers, salads, soups, pasta, fish, meat and sides. If you try one thing, make it the signature Spicy Rigatoni. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.
French Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: La Petite Maison Riyadh in Al Olaya
Renowned for its ingredient-led French Mediterranean and Niçoise-inspired cuisine, LPM Riyadh offers everything we love from the LPM brand. Diners can expect fine dining in a stunning setting, complemented by fantastic service and a lively atmosphere. The Riyadh venue is achingly chic with white walls, quirky artwork, and a menu of signature dishes, from Burrata to Lamb Cutlets. Make sure you try the Cheesecake or Vanilla Crème Brûlée for dessert. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com/riyadh/ for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Raoul’s in Via Riyadh
Raoul’s brings the charm of Paris via New York to Via Riyadh and has us drooling over its dishes. The original New York bistro has been serving Parisian cuisine to locals and celebrities since 1975. The restaurant is filled with traditional touches, which range from white tablecloths to red velvet curtains. The menu is divided up by petit plats a partager, entrées, plats principaux, sides and desserts. Don’t leave without eating the steak, which is cooked to medium perfection and is one of the best we’ve ever had. The peppercorn crust and peppercorn sauce make this return-worthy good. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://coolinc.com.sa for more information.
European Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Scott’s Riyadh in Via Riyadh
Scott’s, the world-renowned restaurant, made its way from London to Via Riyadh. In 1851, the concept started as an oyster warehouse, and in 1967, it moved to Mayfair. Famous for its fine-dining British fish and shellfish dishes, it brought a British style and sensibility to the capital. The menu is an ode to seafood and spans oysters, caviar, shellfish, raw, starters, mains, lobster, meat, sides, and dessert. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Follow @scotts.saudi on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Asador de Aranda in Laysen Valley
After wowing diners in Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dubai, Asador De Aranda is now open in the capital opened in Laysen Valley. The Spanish restaurant serves Patatas Bravasand Caldoso, El Cuarto de Asado roasted lamb, and Las Chuletillas grilled lamb chops. Marvellous for meat eaters, the dishes are slow-cooked in a clay oven, making the meat juicy, flavourful and tender.
GO: Visit https://asadordearandainternacional.com for more information.
Japanese Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: MYAZŪ in As Sulimaniyah
Whether you’re in Jeddah or Riyadh, MYAZŪ has become a superb spot for contemporary Japanese cuisine. Expect modern dishes inspired by traditional culinary techniques and top-quality ingredients, which create a smoky, sweet and spicy flavour. The highlights include gyoza, tempura, sandos, carpaccio, sushi, maki rolls and robata grilled meat. The team have already gained critical acclaim, and it is named FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in Riyadh on 2023. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.myazu.com for more information.
Favourite: ROKA in As Sulimaniyah
ROKA has mastered consistency worldwide. Despite adapting its ingredients to suit the Riyadh market, it still shines. The contemporary Japanese restaurant offers an a la carte and tasting menu. The signature dishes include Black Cod, King Crab Dumplings, and Salmon Tartare. Plus, the Lamb Cutlets with Korean spices are plated to perfection. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.rokarestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
Homegrown Saudi Restaurant in Riyadh 2024
Best: Maiz at Bujairi Terrace
Maiz has elevated Saudi cuisine. Located in Bujairi Terrace, the décor combines tradition and modernity to create a one-of-a-kind dining destination. The interior includes woven cushions, shelves stacked with spices and palm trees on the wall. The menu reads like The Kingdom’s greatest food hits, and brings together the best dishes from the thirteen provinces. So, get ready to go on an adventure from the comfort of your maiz (aka table). Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit https://maiz.sa for more information.
Favourite: Almajlis Alkhaleeji in Imam Abdullah Ibn Saud Ibn Abdulaziz Road
Almajlis Alkhaleeji Restaurant offers spectacular Saudi cuisine. Located in Riyadh and Khamis Mushait, the team has been impressing locals and tourists. Drawing inspiration from traditional hospitality in the Kingdom, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dishes include Full Chicken bakhari al Majles, Goat Mandi, and Meat Mathloutha.
GO: Visit www.almajles.sa for reservations and more information.
Restaurant in AlUla 2024
Best: Maraya Social in Maraya Concert Hall
Restaurants don’t get much shinier than Maraya Social in Maraya Concert Hall. Created by the British chef, Jason Atherton, it is located in the stunning mirrored building in the heart of AlUla. Sitting on the rooftop, it showcases Euroeapan cuisine. The menu spans salads, meat, fish, and small and large plates.
GO: Visit https://marayasocial.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Entrecôte Café de Paris in AlUla Old Town
When only steak and fries will do, head to Entrecôte Café de Paris. Located in AlUla Old Town, the French restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The brand started in Geneva and has already made its mark in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Riyadh. Now, it can also be found in AlUla, but it still prides itself on its secret butter sauce, which is flown in from Geneva.
GO: Visit www.entrecote.me for reservations and more information.
Restaurant in Al Khobar & The Eastern Province 2024
Best: Nozomi in Al Matal
The Japanese restaurant Nozomi gives traditional flavours a modern twist. The elegant space serves brunch, lunch and dinner. The menu includes small dishes, sashimi, skewers and more. The signature dishes include Marinated Yellowtail, Seared Salmon Tataki and Wagyu Beef Tataki. If you can’t travel to Al Khobar, don’t worry – there is also a branch in Riyadh. Read our full FACT review here.
Favourite: Takara Restaurant in Al Yarmouk
TAKARA Restaurant brings the taste of Japan to Saudi Arabia. Situated in the heart of Al Khobar, the restaurant showcases contemporary Japanese flavours. The menu features the finest, high-quality ingredients sourced locally. Signature dishes include the famous Reema Maki, Kunafa Shrimp, Wagyu in Hot Stone, and Japonaise Meringue.
GO: Visit https://widget.servmeco.com for reservations and more information.
Restaurant in Jeddah 2024
Best: Kuuru at Al Khalidiyyah
Kuuru has set Jeddah alight with its Nikkei cuisine and has also made its way to Riyadh’s KAFD. Combining the flavours of Japan and Peru, the fusion dishes include Black Cod Criollo, Chicken Panca Truffle and Tiger Shrimp Anticuchero. The colourful plates are so stylish that you’ll want to snap them before you start – we’re not judging.
GO: Visit https://kuururestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Pampas in Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Located on the 17th floor of Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Pampas showcases Latin American flavours. The brings Argentina’s finest grilled meats to the city. The restaurant specialises in steaks cooked over Acacia wood. Dishes include the Black Angus 270-day grain-fed beef tenderloin, and the Braised Australian Wagyu Short Ribs, which was cooked to perfection and falling apart at the slightest touch of a fork. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Follow @pampas_jeddah on Instagram for more information.
Newcomer in Riyah 2024
Best: Kuuru in KAFD
Just days after placing at number 50 on MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Kuuru opened its doors in Riyadh. Having set Jeddah alight with its funky fusion cuisine, the restaurant has now made its way to KAFD in the capital. Kuuru brings Nikkei cuisine to the Saudi table with a sharing-style menu designed to bring people together. Combining the flavours of Japan and Peru, the signature fusion dishes include Black Cod Criollo, Chicken Panca Truffle and Tiger Shrimp Anticuchero.
GO: Visit www.kuururestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Jon & Vinny’s in As Sulimaniyah
Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo are the masterminds behind Jon and Vinny’s. The restaurant was created to serve Italian food reminiscent of nonnas – aka Italian grandmas. The casual spot is already popular with celebrities and has been a date night spot for A-list couples. Kim Kardashian Pete Davidson, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, and Jay-Z and Beyoncé. The restaurant has made its mark, heading from Los Angeles to Jeddah and Riyadh. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.jonandvinnysksa.com for more information.
Restaurant of the Year in Riyah 2024
Kuuru in KAFD
Kuuru masterfully blends Japanese and Peruvian flavours to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. The menu showcases a diverse array of dishes, from exquisite sushi and sashimi to tantalizing ceviches and robata-grilled specialities. Each dish is meticulously crafted, combining the freshness of Japanese ingredients with the bold and exotic spices of Peru. Kuuru’s commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail ensures that every guest feels pampered and indulged. Read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.jonandvinnysksa.com for more information.
