by Alexandra Mansilla
Not Just a Bite: Riyadh Places Where Design And Interior Take the Spotlight
20 Jul 2025
These days, we don’t just eat with our mouths — we eat with our eyes first. Blame it on Instagram or just human nature, but our appetite for beautiful spaces seems almost as strong as our appetite for good food. We scroll, we save, we send each other photos of gorgeous places, all secretly hoping to find that next “wow” spot that feels as good as it looks.
And... why not? There is something magical about sitting in a place that feels thoughtfully designed, where every detail, from the lighting to the colours to the way the chairs curve, adds to the whole experience. It is not just about showing off your lunch, but about soaking up an atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer, snap a few extra photos, and maybe even bring a friend next time just so they can see it too.
So if you are in Riyadh and looking for places that satisfy both your hunger and your need for a little visual delight, we have got you. Here are a few spots where the interiors are every bit as tasty as what is on the menu.
8 Portions
Inspired by the beauty of the desert, 8 Portions, the pizzeria, designed by Masquespacio, the renowned Spanish creative studio known for its bold and innovative interiors, reimagines architectural details like pillars, stairs, and ceilings as sculptural, sensory experiences. Its earthy palette echoes dunes and rocks, while warm, golden-hour lighting softens the space into something serenely immersive.
EL&N LONDON
You probably knew this one would land here. EL&N is Saudi’s go-to “world’s most Instagrammable café,” originally from Mayfair in 2017. Think wall-to-wall pink florals, neon signs, and a menu that rolls from artisanal coffee to shakshuka and dulce de leche cake. Every visit is a visual treat — just note, it is chic with a price tag to match, and seating can be limited.
ALF
ALF blends minimalist interiors with an indoor pond making it feel like a casual art installation. It is a haven for dessert lovers and coffee enthusiasts, opening early and staying late (7 AM–12:30 am, and from 12:30 pm on Saturdays). Perfect spot for a late-night indulgence or a sweet midday pick-me-up.
Villa Mamas
Nestled in Diriyah’s historic Bujairi Terrace, Villa Mamas Riyadh is the largest incarnation of the Bahraini-born concept (now also in London and Abu Dhabi). It seats 200+, mixing rich Middle Eastern flavours with seasonal, organic ingredients, and feels like dining in founder Roaya Saleh’s warm, family kitchen. Fancy details: marble-topped tables, Turkish tiles, Czech-blown pomegranate art, mirrored ceilings, and a scent of rose & sandalwood that draws you in.
Elixir Bunn
Step into architecture worship at Elixir Bunn’s “Deco Temple” in Riyadh. Designed by AZAZ Architects — a boutique architecture and design firm based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, known for contemporary projects inspired by local heritage — the coffee shop transforms a structural column into soaring Islamic arches clad in mud plaster, blending sacred past and modern design. Italian terrazzo floors, a deep-blue spiral staircase, dramatic bronze lighting, and a spiritual, café-as-sanctuary vibe make it a standout in the booming Saudi coffee scene.
More from
Saudi ArabiaRiyadh
Escape the Ordinary: 6 Rooftop Spots Redefining Riyadh's Summer Nights
Beat the heat and elevate your nights — Riyadh’s best rooftops are calling
by Dara Morgan
19 Jun 2025
RestaurantsRiyadh
7 Casual Dining Spots In Riyadh For Comfy Weekend
Travelling to Riyadh? Here is your cheat sheet to the hottest bites in the city
by Barbara Yakimchuk
5 Jun 2025
Riyadh
Top 5 Luxury Spas In Riyadh For the Ultimate Relaxation Experience
Escape the ordinary and indulge in serenity at Riyadh luxury spas, where expert treatments and lavish amenities await
by Iffat Nawaz
2 Jun 2025
TravelHeritage
Riyadh: Must-visit Museums For Those Who Travel For the First Time
Uncover Riyadh’s top museums, ideal for first-time travellers seeking an authentic Saudi experience
by Iffat Nawaz
11 Feb 2025
AttractionsRiyadh
Travel To Riyadh Theme Parks: Thrill Scene
Get ready for adrenaline-fueled fun in Riyadh: Explore theme park attractions
by Iffat Nawaz
11 Oct 2024
MusicEvents
MDLBEAST Soundstorm: Eminem, Muse, Tyler, The Creator Head To Riyadh
This is not the complete list — there is Thirty Seconds to Mars, David Guetta, and many more
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Oct 2024