admin Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is undergoing a culinary renaissance that can be aptly described as a “gastronomic explosion.” This transformation has seen the emergence of international brands alongside a burgeoning scene of homegrown Saudi restaurants and street food vendors, contributing to the city’s growing cultural diversity.
Changes in the Culinary Landscape
Not too long ago, Riyadh’s culinary landscape was predominantly defined by a handful of local establishments offering traditional Saudi and Najdi cuisine. These eateries specialised in stews, lip-smacking meaty dishes, and savoury regional specialties. However, the tide began to turn with the unveiling of Saudi Vision 2030 in 2016—a comprehensive economic and social plan. This transformation has accelerated since 2021, driven in part by the easing of pandemic restrictions. Riyadh has experienced a surge in international chefs and restaurants, accompanied by a growing influx of tourists and expatriates.
Today, Riyadh boasts an array of dining options from around the world, catering to diverse tastes and budgets, spanning fine dining establishments to street food vendors. Simultaneously, Riyadh is evolving from being solely an administrative hub to a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis. It is attracting talent from across the globe, including restaurants and chefs who are eager to explore Riyadh as the potentially largest culinary market in the Middle East.
Things to Look Out For
Among the latest international additions are culinary destinations like Spago Riyadh, led by famous celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Mr. Chow, specialising in authentic Beijing cuisine, and Flamingo Room by Tashas, a concept store and eatery by celebrated South African chef Natasha Sideris. Additionally, newcomers on the scene include Ferdi Restaurant, and La Petite Maison.
Behind these culinary ventures is Cool Inc, a Saudi lifestyle curator. It has already brought La Petite Maison, Spago, Ferdi, and Cut by Wolfgang Puck to Riyadh, with plans announced for further openings, including Scott’s, Gymkhana, Wagyumafia, and Madeo.
Riyadh’s evolving dining scene reflects not only an expansion of culinary options but also a shift toward “profits with purpose.” Entrepreneurs are not only focusing on financial success but also on making a broader societal impact. Their innovations in clean energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure hold the key to a cleaner, more prosperous future for our planet. In a world where climate change looms large, these entrepreneurs illuminate a path forward—a path that promises not only profits but also a sustainable and brighter tomorrow.
As the culinary landscape expands, Riyadh residents are increasingly embracing this “gastronomic explosion.” The establishment of the Culinary Arts Commission under the Saudi Ministry of Culture underscores this trend. Establishing culinary arts regulations, rating restaurants, dishes, and chefs, and upholding Saudi and international culinary traditions are some of the duties of the Commission.
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