In Saudi Arabia, the restriction on alcohol has resulted in a limited number of bars and nightclubs. However, similar to many devout Muslim nations, the focus here is more on family-oriented activities, such as dining out, rather than going on dates. Consequently, the capital city of Riyadh boasts an impressive and diverse restaurant scene.

Riyadh's culinary landscape is cosmopolitan, showcasing an array of dining experiences ranging from high-end, Michelin-star establishments to cozy hole-in-the-wall eateries. These venues attract both locals and expatriates in search of the finest local and international cuisine. If you find yourself living in Riyadh, here are some highly recommended restaurants that are certainly worth a visit.

One such establishment is widely recognized as amongst Riyadh's top all-day dining restaurants - a true gem within the Ritz-Carlton. This restaurant has become a firm favorite for not only hotel guests but also local inhabitants. Renowned for its lavish Friday buffet brunch, it has garnered immense popularity among those seeking to indulge in a sumptuous spread of Middle Eastern and international delicacies.

And with an impressive selection of 20 food stations available, as well as a dedicated kids club to entertain the little ones, it's no wonder that Al Orjouan has established itself as a renowned restaurant in Riyadh. Located at The Ritz-Carlton in the Al Hada Area on Mekkah Road, Al Orjouan offers a wide range of dining options to cater to every palate.

In contrast, Yokari may not be the most affordable dining option in Riyadh, but for those in search of gourmet-style Japanese cuisine, it is unparalleled. This high-end establishment goes beyond the typical sushi platters and omakase-style dining experiences, instead offering beautifully presented dishes prepared with technical precision. The restaurant fosters a more intimate dining experience, with minimal interaction with the kitchen staff. Guests are encouraged to ask their waiter for explanations of the dishes. Yokari is located on the 2nd floor of the Centria Mall on 210 Olaya Street.

For those seeking a truly exquisite dining experience, a visit to The Globe is highly recommended. This establishment offers an elaborate dining experience that is sure to impress.

Situated within the magnificent golden glass orb atop the Al Faisaliah Tower, resides an extraordinary fine-dining restaurant that presents an enticing blend of Arabic and contemporary European cuisine. Notably, this establishment is renowned for its exquisite afternoon tea experience, allowing guests to bask in the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city. Imagine the sheer delight of savoring a delightful cup of specialty tea, complemented by decadent desserts, all while seated 240 meters above ground level. The establishment, known as The Globe, is located on King Fahd Branch Road, Al Olaya, inside the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower's geodesic orb in Riyadh.

Nestled within the exquisite Centria Mall, this highly regarded restaurant in Riyadh derives its name from the Armenian word for 'moon' and serves as an embodiment of the distinctive flavors found within Armenian cuisine. Despite its illustrious reputation, the venue exudes a warm and intimate ambiance, enhanced by soft golden lighting and cozy natural interiors featuring stone slabs adorned with poignant Armenian poetry. The culinary offerings range from an array of delectable hot and cold mezze, soups, refreshing salads, and succulent grilled meats. Immerse yourself further in the Armenian culture as you dine, as the melodious sounds produced by a traditional Armenian woodwind instrument, known as the duduk, create a harmonious symphony in the background.

Lusin can be found on the second floor of Centria Mall, located at 210 Olaya Street in Riyadh. Hualan, another restaurant, is also situated in Centria Mall. Hualan offers a modern interpretation of Chinese cuisine, blending traditional Asian cooking techniques with innovative flavors and texture combinations. The menu features enticing dishes such as fried prawns in pumpkin sauce and jasmine tea-smoked beef ribs. In addition, Hualan offers a wide selection of bespoke Jing tea and fruit smoothies incorporating exotic Asian ingredients. The restaurant boasts a sleek, all-natural geometric interior and has a terrace overlooking Riyadh's futuristic skyline, providing an ideal setting for al fresco dining during the cooler winter months. Najd Village, on the other hand, offers a truly unique dining experience. Housed in a vast heritage building, it is capable of accommodating up to 1,000 people. Najd Village serves traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine in its original style, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in a manner reminiscent of the olden days. They can settle down on comfortable, authentic cushions while admiring the beautiful museum-like decor that surrounds them.

Located on Takhassusi Street in Al Olaya, Riyadh, Najd Village is a highly popular restaurant that offers a diverse menu, catering to both vegetarian and meat lovers. It boasts a range of mouth-watering culinary delights, including the must-try specialties of matazeez (lamb dumplings in a rich tomato sauce) and mogalgal (a tantalizingly peppery lamb dish). With its exceptional reputation, it comes as no surprise that Najd Village is consistently frequented by locals and visitors alike. To avoid disappointment, we recommend making a reservation in advance to secure your spot at this renowned establishment.