Obeir Resident Hotel

This is one of THE places to go in Riyadh for authentic Saudi cuisine. Their three branches have all been reconstructed to resemble a Najd village setting that is both welcoming and oozing in local charm. Take a seat on the floor under the covered terrace for a traditional experience. If you're two or three, opt for the sharing menu that highlights an extensive selection of satisfyingly generous and authentic flavours of the region. Don’t miss the freshly baked breads made to order and the tatlee, a baked custard with crushed pistachio.

This is Chef Hisham Baeshen’s first restaurant. The cooking is inspired by five Saudi regions and sprinkled with some dishes from various Middle Eastern countries. The eatery, whose name translates as ‘in your heart’, is set in a large open room with an eye-catching tree trunk suspended from the ceiling. Be sure to come in a big group as portions are perfect for sharing. Recommendations include their samosas, seabream in molasses stew and the sharqawi rice topped with caramelised onions. Finish off the meal with the queen of Arabic desserts, the kunafah.

In Laysen Valley, nearby the Diplomatic Quarter, is this predominantly Lebanese restaurant. The colourfully designed interior matches well with the menu. Chef Abdullah Bakri prepares vibrant and flavour-packed dishes with subtle twists. Interesting plates include the tabbouleh with passion fruit and their version of the Egyptian Om Ali, while their shish tawook is considered a signature dish. In cooler months, opt to sit on the large terrace at the back, which overlooks a sunken garden.

Korean barbeque meets a fun and elevated setting. It’s on you to cook up the meat as you like on a hot plate at the centre of the table. Get yourselves a couple of starters to share before choosing your preferred cut of beef. Expect a generously portioned selection of pickles and kimchi to complement your barbeque experience. If you’re still looking to prolong your evening, make your way to the nearby bowling alley and cinema for the ultimate fun night out.

Nestled in historic Diriyah, known as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, this Saudi restaurant boasts specialities originating from the country’s 13 provinces. Dishes like the lamb mantu (steamed dumplings), mandi lamb shoulder and freshly baked breads served with dips and local honey are delivered with obvious pride. To get the full experience, opt for one of their tasting menus known as the Maiz Experience – one offers six courses, another has eight and the last has 12.

Head to Bujairi Terrace to enjoy some Saudi food but with a contemporary edge. The team here have travelled and researched the regions of the country, studying local recipes, dishes and cooking styles, and have created a menu inspired by their findings. Dishes have an appealing and recognisable flavour profile but boast a modern look on the plate. Those flavours are bold and the textures are distinct, making the dishes satisfyingly tasty. The friendly team seamlessly manage the bustling restaurant, which is loved by both locals and visitors.

If you’re walking in the bustling Bujairi Terrace and fancy a trip to Thailand, you should head to this spot that literally means “come and try.” Take a seat on the terrace, or if it’s open, the upstairs area to enjoy a selection of famed David Thompson recipes that may include chicken satay leu, green papaya salad, khao soi Chiang Mai and homemade ice creams. Their set Maa Long Chim menu is vibrant and authentic – and well worth a try. The service is also a plus, thanks to the endearingly friendly team.