9 new cafés in Riyadh that are causing a stir

From hipster hotspots to Insta-worthy décor, here’s where to fuel your day.

Whether you like a cup of coffee in the morning, afternoon or several times a day, cafés in Riyadh are here to help. The capital has a buzzing coffee scene, which is brimming with exciting new openings. So, if you want to catch up with friends, work remotely or grab a drink to go, there’s a café to suit your needs. Here are the best new cafés in Riyadh. 

BAC Bakery

BAC describes itself as a bakehouse and coffee shop. Located in Alyasmin, the interiors include fringe lamps, pretty plants, soft sofas, and wooden chairs and tables. The aesthetic is beige and white across the walls – there’s even one with palm tree motifs. The menu is divided up by bakeries, cookies and desserts. If you’re struggling to choose, head over to the counter. The options range from a Feta Zaatar Croissant to Pecan Croissant, Lemon Tart to Strawberry Tart, and Chocolate Zaatar Cookies to Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. 

Beika 

Beika is a bakery, cake and coffee shop. Located in Al Mughrizat, it boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and a bright, airy feel. The monochrome interior is punctuated by gorgeous greenery. Great for group gatherings or solo sippers, there are long tables and sofa seats. Plus, the menu includes Baklava Cheesecake, Kiri Cinnamon Fingers and Tahina Pecan Cookies.

Chestnut Bakery 

London’s calling. The British-born brand, Chestnut Bakery, has made its Saudi debut. Now, you can taste its famously freshly baked goods, which include buns, bagels and baguettes, in the capital. Located in Pure Center on Al Mohammadiyyah Street. Visitors will smell (before they see) the freshly baked bread. The bakers pride themselves on their bread-making skills, and create ka’ak, simit and sourdough. There are croissants, cookies and cakes, which come in a variety of flavours. Plus, sandwiches and flatbreads, which have a range of fillings.

French Toast 

If you want to add a little ooh la la to your day, then visit French Toast. Located in An Nada, the new café brings a touch of chic to the capital. The venue has floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings. Look out for the beautiful bread displays, which make us want to unleash our inner Martha Stewart. There’s no need to worry about getting up early, as it serves an all-day breakfast: Bresaola and Egg, Eggs Benedict, Eggs Salmon Florentine, Scrambled Eggs and Shakshuka. Plus, following in its namesake, there are French toast options, from Avocado French Toast to Granola French Toast.

Hazzat Chapati 

Hazzat Chapati gives the humble chapati a makeover. Located in Al Malqa, the Arabic chic décor includes classic and contemporary features, from tall, traditional doors to minimalist, modern furniture. The food menu includes creative takes on the chapati. We’re talking sweet and savoury wraps, which take much-loved ingredients as a chapati filling. The savoury wraps include chicken chapati, chips and cheese chapati, cream cheese chapati, egg chapati, oregano chapati and shakshuka chapati. The sweet wraps include labneh with honey chapati, Lotus chapati and Nutella chapati. Come for the chapatis, and stay for the karak.

Hustle n Flow Riyadh

If you’re looking to kickstart healthy eating habits, then this is for you. The café prides itself on its gluten-free and vegan menu, which is free of artificial additives and preservatives. The hipster hotspot has funky street art, exposed brick walls and industrial chic piping. Lookout for the gold frames with slogans stating “perspective is everything”, and living walls with neon signs declaring “come together”. The all-day brunch spot serves beautifully presented dishes. Take your pick from organic smoothies, line-caught salmon, free-range chicken and grilled halloumi. Build your own salad or wrap and choose from beetroot, mixed greens, quinoa and sweet potato. Drinks range from activated charcoal lattes to blue spirulina lattes. Go with the flow.

Jones the Grocer 

Say g’day to Jones the Grocer, an Australian retailer and restaurant. The brand has opened across the GCC, and is now bringing its signature offerings to Ramla Terraza. Guests can shop at the artisanal charcuterie, cheese room, bakery and gourmet grocery. Plus, there is a dedicated restaurant serving breakfasts, burgers, pastas and more.

Said dal 1923

Are you a sucker for hot chocolate? Well, you’ll be excited to hear that Said dal 1923 has opened in Riyadh. The much-loved Italian brand is famous for its chocolate bars, chocolate cake and hot chocolate. Located in Hittin, the brand started life as a chocolate factory in Rome, Italy, in 1923. Chocoholics should not leave without trying the signature hot chocolate, which comes in dark, hazelnut and milk chocolate flavours. The drink is served with triple chocolate (dark, hazelnut and milk) dripping down the side. Plus, diners can take their pick of cakes, which include carrot and walnut, pistachio and salted caramel. 

Scrmy 

Scrmy describes itself as your coolest neighbourhood hangout. Located in Al Aqiq, it aims to create a community feel, and has held special events for Valentine’s Day, Founding Day and International Women’s Day. The menu covers breakfast, pastries and sandwiches. The drinks range from coffees to juices, and the latter comes in flavours ranging from dates to thyme. Lookout for the shelves stacked with interesting items – we spotted a photo of Audrey Hepburn to books on Arabian Leopard. Plus, the statement “taste and tell” is hung outside the venue, and on the wall in neon lights.