Riyadh Food Guide: What to Eat and Where to Order

Local tip

The best local eating happens after 21:00 — Riyadh's dining peak is 22:00–midnight. Explore the Diriyah district and the Takhassusi Street restaurant row for local pricing away from hotel zones. Arabic coffee (قهوة, qahwa) with dates is always served free before meals — refusing it is considered impolite.

Best Kabsa in Riyadh

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Al Tazaj

Multiple locationsServed with their signature char-grilled baby chicken, this version adds a unique smoky layer to the spiced rice. It is one of the most accessible ways to experience Kabsa for travelers on a tight schedule.

Order: Signature order

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Najd Village

OlayaHoused in a stunning recreation of a Najdi village, it serves an exceptionally authentic Kabsa where the lamb is slow-cooked until it falls apart. The rice is intensely aromatic, infused with the signature smoky flavor of black lime and high-quality saffron.

Order: Signature order

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Al Romansiah

Olaya / multipleTheir Kabsa is legendary for its perfect spice balance and exceptionally high-quality rice. It is the go-to spot for locals hosting large family gatherings, offering a reliable and clean environment with traditional floor-seating booths.

Order: Signature order

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Maiz

Bujairi Terrace (Diriyah)Their Kabsa is a refined culinary experience, using premium local cuts of meat and hand-selected spices. It is served with gourmet garnishes in a luxurious setting that bridges the gap between ancient heritage and modern fine dining.

Order: Signature order

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Bukhari 24

Al WurudThe Kabsa here is fast, affordable, and incredibly flavorful. It is served with a unique carrot-and-raisin garnish that adds a subtle sweetness, paired with a fiery green chili sauce that is a staple for the late-night local crowd.

Order: Signature order

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Al Saddah Restaurant

As SulimaniyahTheir Kabsa is particularly prized for its rich, well-seasoned rice and the deep, savory notes of the slow-roasted meat. It is a no-frills, high-quality establishment that remains popular with the city's traditional residents.

Order: Signature order

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Tofareel

HittinTheir Kabsa is lighter and more aromatic than traditional versions, using less oil and emphasizing the floral notes of cardamom and cloves. It is a popular choice for the city's younger professional crowd seeking an "elevated" version of the national dish.

Order: Signature order

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Saudi Kitchen

As SulimaniyahTheir Kabsa is distinguished by its comforting, unpretentious flavor profile. They use traditional spice blends that have remained unchanged for decades, offering a taste of what Riyadh's family kitchens have served for generations.

Order: Signature order

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Al Makshat

Al MohammadiyyahThe Kabsa here is prepared in a style that emphasizes the "outdoor" fire-cooked aroma. It is served in a setting that encourages communal eating, capturing the social and cultural essence of a Saudi desert feast.

Order: Signature order

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Takya

Bujairi Terrace (Diriyah)Takya focuses on elevating traditional Saudi ingredients using modern culinary techniques. Their Kabsa is refined, beautifully plated, and uses premium ingredients like camel or baby lamb, making it a favorite for special occasions.

Order: Signature order

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Aseel

DiriyahTheir Kabsa is known for the high quality of its local Najdi lamb and the aromatic intensity of the saffron-infused rice. The outdoor seating in a palm grove adds a serene, traditional atmosphere to the meal.

Order: Signature order

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Bukhari Stalls

Al BathaThe Kabsa here is the most affordable in the city, served in high volume to a diverse working-class population. It is rustic, deeply savory, and always accompanied by a potent chili-garlic sauce that is a local street food staple.

Order: Signature order

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Heritage Village Restaurant

Al FutahTheir Kabsa follows an old-fashioned recipe that prioritizes the slow extraction of meat juices into the rice, resulting in a dish that is exceptionally rich in flavor without being overly spicy.

Order: Signature order

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Madghout Al Janoub

Al RawdahWhile their name suggests Madghout, their Kabsa is a highly-rated local secret. It is known for its particularly tender chicken and a rice texture that is perfectly fluffy and well-separated, reflecting great technical skill.

Order: Signature order

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Sultan Palace

Al MalazKnown for its massive Kabsa platters served with an array of traditional sides. The flavor profile is bold and robust, emphasizing the darker, earthier notes of the black lime and cardamom spice base.

Order: Signature order

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Best Mandi in Riyadh

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Raydan

As Sulimaniyah / multipleThey are particularly famous for their "Madhbi" (meat grilled on hot stones) alongside their classic Mandi. The flavor is bold, rustic, and very authentic, served with a signature spicy tomato salsa that provides a sharp, refreshing contrast.

Order: Signature order

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Ba'ishen

Al BathaKnown for its intense smoky aroma and the use of traditional Yemeni spices that give the rice a darker, more savory character. It is a no-frills experience favored by those seeking the most rustic and unrefined version of the dish.

Order: Signature order

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Yemeni Village

Al WurudTheir Mandi is prepared strictly according to traditional methods, emphasizing the use of high-quality young lamb and a very fragrant, cardamom-forward spice blend. The traditional seating and decor add a strong cultural element to the dining experience.

Order: Signature order

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Mandi Al Khaleej

Al MalazTheir Mandi is simple, flavorful, and served with a generous side of spicy tomato salsa and fresh onions. It is a favorite for the local working-class community who appreciate the high volume and authentic taste.

Order: Signature order

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Wadi Al-Nil

Al OlayaTheir meat is known for its fall-off-the-bone tenderness, achieved through a slightly longer slow-cooking process in the tandoor. The rice is noticeably more buttery and aromatic than standard versions.

Order: Signature order

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Mandi House

Ghirnatah / multipleIt is a reliable and hygienic spot for office workers to get an authentic taste of the traditional dish. The Mandi is consistently well-prepared, with a focus on meat tenderness and clean presentation.

Order: Signature order

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Aseel Restaurant

DiriyahThe focus here is on the premium quality of local livestock and a more nuanced, floral spice profile. It is a preferred spot for those looking for a serene and elegant environment to enjoy a traditional feast.

Order: Signature order

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Mandi Palace

Al RawdahThe meat here is consistently rated as some of the juiciest in East Riyadh, with a perfectly charred exterior and a meltingly tender interior. The rice is fragrant and flavored with high-quality local ghee.

Order: Signature order

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Best Mathloutha / Madghout in Riyadh

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Mathloutha Al-Dar

Al MalazKnown for its massive portions and a very traditional Najdi spice blend. It is a no-frills, high-volume establishment that remains popular with the local community for its authentic and unpretentious flavor.

Order: Signature order

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Madghout Al-Basheer

Al WurudKnown for its incredible speed of service and the consistent tenderness of its lamb. The rice is aromatic and flavorful, reflecting the restaurant's expertise in pressure-cooking meat and rice together in small, fresh batches.

Order: Signature order

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Village Restaurant

As SulimaniyahKnown for its consistency and the perfect technical balance between the creamy wheat porridge and the savory rice layers. It provides a classic, dependable version of Mathloutha that many locals consider the neighborhood standard.

Order: Signature order

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The Mathloutha House

GhirnatahIt is clean, well-packaged for delivery, and maintains a very high standard of traditional flavor. It is a popular choice for office lunches where the convenience of a modern chain meets the depth of a traditional feast.

Order: Signature order

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Best Jareesh in Riyadh

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Jareesh & More

As Sulimaniyah / multipleIt offers a variety of creative toppings and small-portion sizes, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quick, healthy, and comforting traditional snack in a clean and modern environment.

Order: Signature order

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Local Bukhari Kitchens

Al BathaServed in simple plastic containers, it is rustic, deeply flavorful, and incredibly filling. It reflects the raw, unpolished, and very authentic side of the city's traditional food culture.

Order: Signature order

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The Village

near National MuseumTheir Jareesh is cooked for hours over low heat, resulting in a depth of flavor and a creamy, integrated texture that is increasingly rare in more modern, fast-paced commercial kitchens.

Order: Signature order

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Best Saleeg in Riyadh

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Hijazi Kitchen

Al OlayaTheir Saleeg is prepared according to Makkah traditions, with a strong emphasis on the depth of the broth used to slow-cook the rice before the milk is added, resulting in a more complex savory profile.

Order: Signature order

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Local Hijazi Stalls

Al BathaServed in simple containers to the high-turnover market crowd, it is rustic, intensely creamy, and offers the best value for those looking for a quick and filling Hijazi meal in the old city.

Order: Signature order

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Saleeg Al-Janoub

Al RawdahKnown for its intense milky flavor and the tenderness of its roasted chicken, it offers some of the best value for money in the city. The rice is cooked until almost molten, capturing the true "soul food" essence of the dish.

Order: Signature order

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The Saleeg House

Al WurudClean, efficient, and consistently well-prepared, this spot is a favorite for the urban professional crowd. Their Saleeg is known for being lighter on the palate while maintaining a very authentic milk-and-butter base.

Order: Signature order

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Best Mutabbaq in Riyadh

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Mutabbaq Al-Amir

Al GhadeerTheir Mutabbaq is always perfectly square and evenly browned, making it a favorite for local takeout orders. It is a dependable choice for those who want a high-quality version of the classic without any frills.

Order: Signature order

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Mutabbaq Al-Hana

Al BathaIt is rustic, intensely flavored, and represents the authentic street-food roots of the dish. The high heat of their griddle ensures a char and crispness that is hard to replicate in more modern kitchens.

Order: Signature order

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Abu Zaid

As Sulimaniyah / multipleThey offer a huge variety of fillings, from the classic minced meat and leek to cream and honey for dessert. The dough is stretched paper-thin and fried until perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and moist on the inside, a technical benchmark for the dish.

Order: Signature order

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Al Qarmoushi

Al Malaz / multipleTheir Mutabbaq is known for being slightly more rustic and very generous with the leek and egg filling. It is a staple spot for locals who appreciate the fast, high-quality, and very affordable service in a high-turnover environment.

Order: Signature order

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Mutabbaq Al-Saada

Al MalazThey are particularly famous for their "Vegetable" version, which is packed with fresh leeks, tomatoes, and eggs. It is served with a signature sharp green chili that provides the perfect heat level to complement the savory dough.

Order: Signature order

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Ammi Omar

OlayaThe "Cream and Banana" version is a city-wide favorite for dessert, offering a perfect balance of crispy, salty dough and warm, sweet filling. It is the go-to spot for those looking to end their meal with a traditional Najdi treat.

Order: Signature order

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Mutabbaq Al-Malaz

Al MalazKnown for their precision in stretching the dough to extreme thinness, resulting in a very light and non-greasy final product. It is a favorite for those who find the standard street versions a bit too heavy or oily.

Order: Signature order

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Bait Al-Mutabbaq

Al RawdahTheir minced meat version is particularly savory, with a well-balanced spice profile that emphasizes the flavor of the beef without being overwhelming. It is a favorite for local families picking up a quick, high-protein meal.

Order: Signature order

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Malik Al-Mutabbaq

Al WurudTheir signature "Cheese and Meat" version is rich, gooey, and perfectly crisp. It is a more decadent take on the dish that has become a major hit with the younger, late-night crowd in the Wurud district.

Order: Signature order

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Foul Al-Tahrir

As SulimaniyahPrepared fresh to order on a massive hot griddle, their "Salted Meat" version is consistently rated as one of the best in the district. It is a high-energy spot where you can watch the dough being expertly flipped and folded.

Order: Signature order

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Bafarat

HittinWhile primarily a high-end cafe, their savory Mutabbaqs use premium ingredients and are served in a stylish, modern setting. It caters to the younger Hittin crowd who appreciate a more curated and aesthetic dining experience.

Order: Signature order

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Mutabbaq Al-Khaleej

Al MalazA favorite for workers and students in the Malaz area who need a fast, filling, and very cheap meal. It captures the high-turnover, high-energy side of Riyadh's street food scene perfectly.

Order: Signature order

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Mutabbaq Al-Rimal

Al MohammadiyyahPacked with fresh leeks and eggs, their chicken version is a popular choice for those looking for something different from the traditional beef. It is always served with fresh lemon wedges and crisp chilies.

Order: Signature order

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Best Qahwa with dates in Riyadh

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Batheel

Al Malaz / multipleTheir Qahwa is known for its bright, golden color and the generous use of premium saffron. It is served in a comfortable, traditional environment that is a favorite for long, conversational afternoon gatherings.

Order: Signature order

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Cafe Bateel

Olaya / multipleTheir Qahwa is a sophisticated experience, served with a curated selection of their famous gourmet dates. The quality of both the coffee and the fruit is unmatched, served in an elegant environment that bridges tradition with modern luxury.

Order: Signature order

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The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh

Al HadaServed under the grand arches of the palace-like hotel, the coffee is prepared with the rarest saffron and served with an exquisite assortment of premium dates and traditional sweets. It is the ultimate destination for experiencing Saudi hospitality in its most regal form.

Order: Signature order

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Al-Massa Cafe

OlayaIt offers a very authentic and high-quality Qahwa ritual, popular with locals who gather to socialize over coffee and dates. The outdoor seating provides a vibrant atmosphere for enjoying the city's skyline.

Order: Signature order

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Souq Al Zal Qahwa Stalls

DeeraServed by elderly vendors in the city's oldest market, the coffee is strong, aromatic, and served in simple cups. It offers a raw and unpolished look at the deep cultural roots of the drink amidst the scent of oud and traditional carpets.

Order: Signature order

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Dates & Co.

Al WurudThey offer "tasting flights" of different date varieties, explaining their unique flavor profiles and how they complement the spicy notes of Saudi coffee. It is a highly educational and delicious destination for food enthusiasts.

Order: Signature order

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Al-Hana Qahwa

Al BathaIt serves strong, hot Qahwa to the busy market crowd and is one of the most affordable places to experience the ritual. It captures the social and functional side of the coffee culture perfectly.

Order: Signature order

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U Walk Traditional Cafes

U WalkIt is a popular spot for people-watching while enjoying a pot of aromatic Qahwa and premium Sukkari dates, reflecting the modern social life of the city.

Order: Signature order

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Diriyah Gate Heritage Cafes

DiriyahThey serve a very rustic and aromatic Qahwa, emphasizing the historic continuity of the drink in the Saudi heartland. It is a peaceful and culturally rich environment for enjoying the traditional pairing.

Order: Signature order

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Best Shawarma and falafel in Riyadh

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Sultan Al-Shawarma

Al OlayaTheir beef Shawarma is particularly prized for its tenderness and the traditional tahini dressing that provides a deep, savory flavor without being overly heavy. It is a favorite for those seeking the most traditional Levantine taste.

Order: Signature order

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Jala Shawarma

Al RawdahIt is a high-volume neighborhood spot where the meat is always fresh off the spit and the garlic sauce has a serious, peppery kick. Their "Saj" style wraps are particularly popular for their extra crispiness.

Order: Signature order

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Falafel Pie

Al WurudIt is a unique twist on the classic, offering a different texture and flavor profile that has become a major hit. It is the perfect savory snack for those looking for a modern variation of a traditional staple.

Order: Signature order

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Mama Noura

As Sulimaniyah / multipleTheir chicken Shawarma is legendary for its perfect thinness and the quality of its garlic sauce (toum). It is served in a fast, high-turnover environment that is a Riyadh right-of-passage for any visiting food lover.

Order: Signature order

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Shawarma House

As Sulimaniyah / multipleKnown for its incredible service speed and the consistency of its garlic sauce. Their pita bread is baked on-site and served hot, providing a perfect vessel for the thinly sliced, perfectly charred rotisserie meat.

Order: Signature order

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Shawarmer

Takhassusi / multipleThey offer a variety of creative "sandwiches" and bowls, experimenting with different breads and artisanal sauces while maintaining high-quality meat. It is a popular choice for the city's younger, cosmopolitan audience.

Order: Signature order

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Falafel Hashim

Al Malaz / multipleTheir Falafels are remarkably crispy on the outside, incredibly fluffy on the inside, and served with high-quality hummus and fresh pickles. It is a staple breakfast destination for Riyadh's residents.

Order: Signature order

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Operation: Falafel

U WalkTheir Falafel is exceptionally fresh and the platters are beautifully presented with gourmet dips and fresh vegetables. It caters to the trendy U Walk crowd looking for heritage flavors in a sophisticated setting.

Order: Signature order

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Falafel Thimar

Al Wurud / multipleIt is a favorite for office workers looking for a quick, high-quality, and affordable vegetarian meal. Their Falafels are herb-forward and always served in soft, fresh pita.

Order: Signature order

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Al Ajami

OlayaTheir Shawarma is more refined, using premium cuts of meat and a very balanced, subtle spice profile. It is served in a more formal dining setting, making it ideal for those who want street flavors with upscale service.

Order: Signature order

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Bashir Shawarma

Al BathaServing massive volumes to the daily market crowd, it is rustic, intensely flavorful, and captures the raw energy of the city's street food scene. The constant rotation of the massive meat spits ensures the highest level of freshness.

Order: Signature order

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Arafa Shawarma

Al MalazPrized for the specific "char" they achieve on their rotisserie meat, it is a no-frills establishment that focuses entirely on technical execution. Their beef Shawarma with extra tahini is a local secret.

Order: Signature order

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Golden Falcon

As SulimaniyahIt has a deep, savory flavor and is served with a particularly tangy and rich tahini sauce. It is a favorite for the late-night local crowd who appreciate the robust spice profile of their beef.

Order: Signature order

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Shawarma Al-Saj

Al MohammadiyyahThinner and crispier than the standard pita wrap, it allows the flavor of the meat and garlic sauce to dominate. It is a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more meat-centric and crunchy Shawarma experience.

Order: Signature order

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Riyadh

Read here. Play on foot.

Eat Mathloutha / Madghout at Mathloutha Al-Dar

Eat Mathloutha / Madghout at Madghout Al-Basheer

Riyadh is read. Now go eat it.