Sometimes, nothing quite hits the spot the way Italian food does. From ravioli to ragu, it really is a culinary daydream. And with the Saudi capital’s seemingly endless options to eat out, there’s always somewhere to impress even the pickiest of foodies.
Can it be for a dinner with madame or the boys, let’s walk you through our most highly favoured and flavoured restaurants.
La Rustica Pizzeria
It’s not hard to see why La Rustica is on the list. With its concise and delicious menu, homely feels and warm friendly service, it would be a mistake to not consider this as one of the best pizzerias in Riyadh. Perhaps even in the entire country if you ask us.
They proudly serve amazing artisan-style pizzas, pastas, starters, mains and desserts, in a quaint setting that is a little more pricey than usual, but trust us – it’s worth every penny. It’s like the Embassy of Pasta. On a good day, La Rustica Pizzeria could make even the Neoplitans question if they’re in Saudi Arabia or back home!
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San Carlo Cicchetti
Decadence and Italian food at its finest. This award-winning restaurant has something for everyone; even for the vegetarians and vegans amongst us. The decor will blow you away with its pastel blues and authentic Italian marble. It really is our favourite taste of Italy away from Italy. Oh, did we mention decadence?! Truffle fries, Truffle Risotto, Truffle Ice Cream… we wish! But it is also important to mention that the Gelato is worth dying for. A definite must-try in our books as it’s arguably the best pasta you’ll find in Riyadh.
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Azzurro
Azzurro definitely knows how to bring its own perspective to Italian cuisine. It’s picturesquely situated in the Ritz Carlton where you can enjoy your A La Carte meals from opposite the pool. They’re known for serving traditional Italian cuisine in a chic and modern setting.
The menu is filled, as one would expect, with gastronomic delicacies from Southern Italy. There’s a wide range of dishes from handmade pasta to authentic stone-baked pizza, also boasting a healthy range of meat, fish and fresh fruit and vegetables. The ambience is beautiful, their presentation is divine, what are you waiting for? Get out there and eat some Mascarpone Risotto!
Eataly
Nestled in one of the liveliest streets in eastern Riyadh, Eataly really is something special. As soon as you walk in, you realise you’re more in a delicatessen-come-supermarket than a restaurant. You will also notice that you’re surrounded by natural elements that all play into this very Mediterranean and organic vibe that just keeps us coming back for more.
That’s all before you sit down and check out the menu. Where you will find delights for everyone, even the kids! It’s got a very family-friendly vibe which is another reason why it made the list. It’s a perfect stop for anyone who wants to get good food in a great environment.
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Piatto
With a presence that spans over a decade in the Kingdom, Piatto has established itself as a reference in the Saudi culinary arena. With over 10 locations all throughout the main provinces of KSA, their signature selection of dishes will help you cross off one Italian recipe on your to-try list at a time.
Fresh, tasty and ultimately well-balanced, the menu caters for everyone from meat-lovers to veggies, those with a sweet tooth or a savoury tangent as well as children to grown-ups. The appetizer menu is definitely our soft spot as the seemingly never-ending list of specials will take your tastebuds to visit the sun-kissed beaches of Italy like no other.
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