The Al Khobar favourite lands at Nawaf Square in Al Malqa.
The capital’s appetite for new restaurant openings shows no sign of slowing, and the latest name on everyone’s list is Kantami in Riyadh. The Al Khobar original has earned a loyal following for its bold take on Japanese cuisine, and now the brand has brought its energy to the capital with a new outpost at Nawaf Square in Al Malqa.
Kantami in Riyadh draws inspiration from Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing ceramics with gold, to celebrate its unique history. That idea of beauty in imperfection runs through the concept and the menu, where tradition meets reinvention in dishes designed for sharing. The atmosphere is cinematic, with a modern izakaya feel that is casual and social, equally suited to a quick bite or a long, unhurried meal with friends.
Inside, the space is deliberately layered. Exposed brick walls, fragmented colour-tinted windows, murals and glowing Japanese signage create a gritty, underground mood, balanced by rustic textures throughout. A multi-tiered chandelier, decorated with traditional toys, teapots and tools, anchors the room as a statement centrepiece, while shelves dotted with Japanese trinkets add quieter moments of ritual and detail.
On the menu, classic Japanese techniques sit alongside playful, evolving twists. Highlights begin with appetisers like Roripoppu Prawn Lollipops, wrapped in a crisp shell and served with a punchy house sauce. For mains, Azabu Salmon Donburi pairs miso-butter-glazed grilled salmon with seasoned rice and dashi-simmered onions, served with a small bowl of miso soup. Kunsei Yakiudon leans into comfort, layering slow-braised beef short ribs through thick udon noodles coated in smoked teriyaki, while Katsukarẽ Gold delivers crisp chicken katsu with rich homemade curry and fluffy rice. Save room for dessert, because the Matcha Tiramisu is already a star at the Al Khobar branch and is poised to win fans in Riyadh.
Drinks are part of the show at Kintami in Riyadh. The Tokyo 2099 is a colour-changing iced tea that brings a little table-side drama, while Ueno Bloom arrives crowned with a cotton candy cloud that dissolves as you sip, which is perfect for the ‘gram.
Now open, Kantami in Riyadh brings a fresh perspective to the city’s Japanese dining scene. Whether you are chasing a standout bao or a comforting bowl of noodles, this newcomer is one to try.
GO: Follow @kantami.sa on Instagram for more information.