JEDDAH – From crispy falafel to refreshing fattoush and golden fried kibbeh, Middle Eastern cuisine captures hearts and palates across the globe. In Riyadh, food enthusiasts enjoy an abundance of exceptional dining options showcasing this beloved culinary tradition.

The capital’s Middle Eastern restaurant scene delivers an impressive array of flavors, featuring masterful spice combinations and diverse regional influences. Diners can explore authentic Arabic, Armenian, Levantine, Turkish, Lebanese, and traditional Saudi specialties throughout the city.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Riyadh’s premier Middle Eastern dining establishments:

Avak

This contemporary Mediterranean venue in Hittin district offers comforting soups including lentil, truffle mushroom, and pumpkin varieties. Signature offerings include Avaktabbouleh, fatteh vine leaves, and generous mezza platters. Located at Welfare Center, Hittin, open daily 1pm-2am.

Awani

Specializing in Levantine fare, Awani reimagines traditional recipes with modern interpretations. The restaurant operates two Riyadh locations: Nakheel Mall and The Zone complex. Open daily 8am-1:30am.

Barbar

This Lebanese street food establishment brings Beirut’s culinary energy to Tahlia Street. Guests can savor manakish, tawouk platters, falafel, shawarma sandwiches, and signature specialties—perfect for sharing alongside refreshing cocktail juices. Located in Al Olaya, open daily 8am-2am.

Balcona 99

Egyptian cuisine shines at this Cairo import in Olaya district. The restaurant features striking decor with hieroglyphic wall carvings, vintage Egyptian entertainment memorabilia, and pharaoh portraiture. Must-try dishes include mahshi, stuffed pigeon, and bamiya. At Century Corner, Al Olaya; Sunday-Wednesday 6pm-12:30am, Thursday-Saturday 1pm-12:30am.

Harat

Drawing inspiration from late 1980s Middle Eastern neighborhoods, Harat blends Saudi, Lebanese, and Turkish cuisines. The name means “lanes” in Arabic, reflected in decor that evokes outdoor dining without temperature concerns. Located at Exit 5, Levels, Northern Ring Road; open daily with split hours 6am-noon and 1pm-1:30pm.

Lusin

From the creators of beloved Saudi restaurant Suhail, Lusin presents Armenian cuisine at Centria Mall. Highlights include distinctive cherry kebabs, cherry prawns, and comforting Armenian manti. Open daily noon-1am at Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, Centria Mall, Olaya Street.

Nuri

This relaxed Lebanese-Armenian eatery offers indoor and outdoor seating with shisha service in a laid-back atmosphere ideal for families. Popular selections include cherry kebabs, tenderloin steak with mushrooms, and shrimp parmesan. Located on King Abdulaziz Road, As Sulimaniyah; open daily 12:30pm-1am.

Offwhite Lounge

Among Riyadh’s most sought-after lounges, Offwhite merges Saudi, Armenian, Lebanese, and Italian cuisines. Families appreciate the welcoming ambiance and elegant design. Additional locations exist in Al Wahah and King Khalid International Airport. At 6699 King Abdulaziz Road, An Nafal; Saturday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday 1pm-2am.

Shababïk

For premium Lebanese dining, Shababïk delivers authentic preparations in a lively setting. The restaurant welcomes guests throughout the day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located on Musaid Ibn Jalawi Street, As Sulimaniyah; Saturday-Thursday 9am-1am, Friday 12:30pm-1am.

RÜYA Riyadh

With sister locations in London, Doha, Dubai, and soon Cannes, RÜYA presents contemporary Anatolian cuisine with Turkish influences. A modest black entrance opens to reveal vibrant interior spaces. At 1224 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah; open daily 12:30pm-1am.

Sobhy Kaber

Grilled meats and hearty stews define this comfort food destination. The welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere ensures satisfaction with dishes like stuffed lamb shoulder and okra tagine. Located at Al Takhassusi, Al Mathar Ash Shamali. Ramadan hours: daily 5:30pm-2:30am.

Villa Mamas

Chef Roaya Saleh crafts modern Middle Eastern cuisine using fresh seasonal and local ingredients. Signature specialties include Machboos, Tacheen, Dum Biriyani, Lamb shanks, Umm Ali, and Kashke. Open 5pm-midnight Saturday-Wednesday, 5pm-1am Thursday-Friday.

Em Sherif

This renowned establishment honors traditional Lebanese culinary heritage. Originally a Beirut dining scene staple, Em Sherif has expanded across the UAE, Oman, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Monaco, and London. Located at The Zone, Al Takhassousi, Al Mohammadiyyah; open daily 8am-midnight.

Villa Fayrouz

Authentic Lebanese cuisine from Beirut graces this airy, colorful venue adorned with floral arrangements. The balcony overlooks bustling Olaya district. Renowned offerings include kibbeh, eggplant fattah, and yabrak (vine leaves). On King Fahd Branch Road, Al Olaya; open 9am-1:30am.

Mayrig

Recently renovated at Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, Mayrig has served Armenian cuisine since 2003. The menu features Mediterranean and Armenian-inspired dishes, succulent grills, soups, healthy salads, and hot and cold appetizers. At 6623 Eastern Ring Road, Ghirnatah; Saturday-Thursday 12:30pm-4pm and 7pm-1am, Friday 4pm-1am.

AlMayass

This Lebanese favorite in central Riyadh delights local diners with stuffed lamb, mixed grills, batata harra, and fattoush. Most dishes arrive mezze-style—small plates, hot or cold—ideal for sharing. Located on Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Road, Al Olaya; open daily noon-12:30am.

The Lebanese Bakery

Fresh-from-the-oven manakish awaits at this Beirut import with locations in U Walk and Alyasmin district. Menu highlights include falafel, fried kibbeh, and manoushe. Additional branches operate in Bahrain, London, and Cairo. At U Walk, An Nakheel; open 8am-midnight.

Original Article:

What’s on Saudi Arabia. (2025, November 3). 17 amazing Middle Eastern restaurants in Riyadh to dig into. Retrieved from https://whatsonsaudiarabia.com/2025/06/middle-eastern-restaurants-in-riyadh/