Al Moteb Suites Al Mursalat

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.

Get your breakfast fix at this contemporary Saudi eatery located a short distance from Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District. Served from early morning to mid-afternoon, the food here proudly represents the country’s regions, particularly in its ingredients and spices. Start with the Mirzam platter, a selection of appetisers including hummus, foul and salads all served with warm flatbreads fresh from the oven. Their Egg Maghash and Kibda Hijazi – aka lamb’s liver – are must haves but do leave room for dessert – the maasoub is the chef’s speciality – and come with friends as sharing is enco

Lebanese owner Dalal Haj Ibrahim has created a cosy restaurant offering a wide selection of delightful dishes inspired by her memories of home. Mixed in with a few Turkish influences and other regions, the menu boasts plenty of tasty options, ranging from beef or cheese sambousek, fresh salads, dips and mains focused on grilled kebabs. The desserts continue the homely feel thanks to the traditional flavours – the mahalabia with honey is especially noteworthy. In the cooler months, opt for a seat on the terrace.

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.

This modern upmarket brasserie has a lovely feel to it. It’s equipped with an open kitchen and is elegantly designed with matt brass shelving full of Turkish and Middle Eastern bowls and jars, a large contemporary chandelier and a mirrored bar. The menu offers a great choice of contemporary Turkish dishes, specialising in the Anatolian region of the country. Start with a selection of hot and cold mezze style dips and plenty of Pide bread, continue with lamb dishes, kebabs or slow-cooked beef ribs, and of course, a baklava or their traditional Anatolian rice pudding to finish. Their creative mo

Set on the third floor of Centria Mall in the heart of the Olaya district, this Armenian restaurant has a rustic style with a warm, authentic feel. Its two rooms have a stone-faced décor, wood flooring and a central kitchen partially on view between the two areas, while a small terrace offers a street vista. The menu is extensive, offering appealing, authentic Armenian dishes. Take your pick from fresh salads, appetisers such as delicious cheese borak and some great Middle Eastern dips – but certainly don’t miss their classic kebabs and signature honey cake.

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