Top Cafes in Riyadh | Best Coffee Shops & Hidden Gems
The Café Culture of Riyadh
Riyadh has rapidly transformed from a city of traditional Arabic coffee gatherings into one of the most dynamic café destinations in the Middle East. In recent years, the Saudi capital has witnessed a coffee revolution — from international brands setting up flagship stores to independent roasters crafting locally inspired brews.
Cafés in Riyadh are more than just coffee stops; they are lifestyle spaces where business meetings, creative sessions, and social connections flourish. From minimal Japanese-style interiors to luxurious European-inspired lounges, each café tells a story of Riyadh’s evolving culture and taste.
The surge in the number of coffee shops reflects not only a love for caffeine but also a broader cultural shift — a generation that values community, creativity, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pour-over, a quiet corner to read, or a rooftop with skyline views, Riyadh offers it all.
In this guide, we explore the best cafés in Riyadh for 2025, categorized by experience — from specialty roasters to Instagrammable interiors, breakfast havens, and hidden gems.
2. The Rise of Specialty Coffee in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia’s relationship with coffee dates back centuries, rooted in the traditional Arabic qahwa served with dates and conversation. However, over the past decade, the rise of specialty coffee has redefined what it means to enjoy a cup of coffee in the Kingdom.
Local entrepreneurs and coffee enthusiasts have invested heavily in importing premium beans, developing roasting techniques, and creating world-class café experiences. Riyadh has become a hub for third-wave coffee — emphasizing quality, origin, and craftsmanship over mass production.
Several Saudi roasters now compete on an international level. Names like Camel Step, Elixir Bunn, and Brew92 have become symbols of Saudi excellence in the coffee world. Their cafés offer everything from signature cold brews to micro-lot pour-overs, served in meticulously designed spaces that celebrate both innovation and local culture.
The specialty coffee movement has also inspired a wave of barista competitions, coffee festivals, and local collaborations — helping Riyadh build a reputation as the coffee capital of the Gulf.
3. Best Cafes in Riyadh (2025 Edition)
To help you navigate Riyadh’s expanding coffee scene, we’ve curated the top cafés across different categories — whether you’re searching for authentic flavors, cozy vibes, or picture-perfect interiors.
3.1. Top Cafes in Riyadh for Coffee Lovers
For those who appreciate coffee as an art form, Riyadh is home to several specialty cafés that source, roast, and brew their beans with precision.
1. Elixir Bunn Coffee Roasters
Widely recognized as one of Riyadh’s pioneers in specialty coffee, Elixir Bunn focuses on single-origin beans and precise brewing techniques. Their minimal, industrial-style interior complements the purity of their coffee offerings. Try their V60 pour-over or signature cold brew — both highlight the café’s passion for quality.
2. Brew92
Originating from Jeddah and now a favorite in Riyadh, Brew92 has elevated the Saudi coffee experience. It combines exceptional coffee with a calm yet creative environment — perfect for freelancers or casual meetings. Their “Spanish Latte” has become a local favorite.
3. Camel Step Coffee Roasters
A proud Saudi brand known for sourcing high-grade beans and operating its own roastery. Camel Step’s baristas are among the best-trained in the Kingdom, offering impeccable espresso shots and seasonal blends.
4. The Roasting House
If you’re after perfectly balanced coffee and a peaceful ambiance, The Roasting House delivers both. It’s a hidden gem ideal for quiet mornings or deep work sessions.
5. Draft Café
Modern, sleek, and consistent — Draft Café has become a go-to spot for Riyadh’s young professionals. Their flat whites and matcha lattes are among the most recommended in the city.
6. Noir Cafe
A refined, upmarket café known for its rooftop seating, live music, great coffee, and elegant evening vibe. Ideal for lunch, dinner, and relaxed late-night dining in Riyadh.
These cafés represent the heart of Riyadh’s specialty coffee movement, where passion for beans meets world-class presentation.
3.2. Trendy & Instagrammable Cafes in Riyadh
Cafés in Riyadh have mastered the art of aesthetic design — blending architecture, color, and lighting to create spaces that are as photogenic as they are relaxing. Here are the most Instagrammable cafés in Riyadh that combine visual appeal with high-quality coffee.
1. Urth Caffé
Imported from Los Angeles, Urth Caffé offers an organic, wholesome menu paired with a vibrant yet elegant setting. Its spacious design and natural lighting make it a favorite among influencers and lifestyle bloggers.
2. Dose Café
Known for its energetic vibe and youthful atmosphere, Dose Café serves bold espresso drinks in a stylish environment. The café’s black-and-yellow branding stands out across Riyadh’s coffee scene.
3. % Arabica Roastery
This Kyoto-based coffee brand has become a global icon for minimalism and precision. The Riyadh branches maintain its signature clean aesthetic — white interiors, mirrored counters, and premium coffee sourced from around the world.
4. Overdose Café
A homegrown Saudi success story, Overdose combines urban design with strong branding. It’s a favorite among Riyadh’s youth, offering unique drinks like “Iced Spanish Latte” and creative desserts.
5. Hustle n’ Flow Eatery
Flow is known for its sophisticated, minimalist decor — white marble tables, neutral tones, and greenery-filled corners. The café offers excellent specialty drinks and is popular for both work and relaxation.
These cafés not only offer exceptional beverages but also reflect Riyadh’s modern, design-driven coffee culture — where aesthetic meets taste.
3.3. Best Breakfast Cafes in Riyadh
For those who enjoy a hearty breakfast alongside great coffee, Riyadh boasts numerous cafés that serve delightful morning menus.
1. L’ETO Café
A blend of European elegance and Saudi charm, L’ETO is celebrated for its creative breakfast dishes and indulgent desserts. Their eggs benedict and pistachio cake are must-tries.
2. Bateel Café
Synonymous with luxury, Bateel offers a sophisticated breakfast experience rooted in Arabian hospitality. Their date-based creations and Arabic coffee provide a modern twist to traditional flavors.
3. Jones the Grocer
An Australian-origin café and gourmet store, Jones the Grocer delivers a balance of international taste and local charm. It’s a popular choice for family brunches and business breakfasts alike.
4. Urth Caffé
While famous for its coffee, Urth also offers one of Riyadh’s best breakfast menus — from organic omelets to acai bowls.
5. Brew Crew Café
A cozy and inviting spot for morning coffee lovers. Brew Crew’s menu includes classic pancakes, freshly baked pastries, and smooth cappuccinos — perfect for a relaxed start to your day.
Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee and croissant or a full brunch spread, these cafés represent Riyadh’s most beloved breakfast destinations.
4. Cafes for Remote Work & Study in Riyadh
Riyadh’s café culture now supports an entire community of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and students who prefer working from inspiring spaces. Several coffee shops have adapted to this trend by offering quiet zones, strong Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
Top work-friendly cafés include:
- Flow Café: Modern, peaceful, and equipped with plenty of outlets.
- Draft Café: Popular among young professionals.
- Brew92: Spacious interiors and excellent acoustics.
- Dose Café: Energetic yet functional — ideal for group discussions.
When selecting a café for remote work in Riyadh, look for venues with ample natural light, moderate background music, and stable internet connectivity. Mornings are generally quieter, while evenings attract more social crowds.
For students, these cafés offer an alternative to libraries — combining productivity with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
5. The Best Arabic Coffee & Traditional Experiences
No coffee guide to Riyadh would be complete without exploring the roots of Saudi Arabia’s coffee heritage — the Arabic coffee, or “qahwa.” Traditionally brewed with lightly roasted beans and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and cloves, Arabic coffee is more than a drink; it is a cultural symbol of hospitality.
Today, many modern cafés have reintroduced Arabic coffee in contemporary settings, merging heritage with innovation.
1. Bateel Café
An established brand that redefines traditional Arabic coffee service. Bateel pairs qahwa with its premium date varieties, offering a refined Saudi experience.
2. Najd Village Café
Located in a setting that replicates traditional Saudi architecture, Najd Village Café offers guests an authentic cultural experience. Its Arabic coffee is served in classic dallah pots, accompanied by dates and local sweets.
3. Sadu Café
Named after the Bedouin weaving art, Sadu Café integrates cultural design with modern presentation. Visitors can enjoy traditional qahwa while admiring the local craftsmanship reflected in the interiors.
4. Takya Café
A concept café that takes traditional Saudi flavors and reinterprets them with modern techniques. Their “Saffron Qahwa Latte” is a must-try for anyone seeking an innovative take on a beloved classic.
Through these cafés, Riyadh continues to honor its heritage of hospitality, offering residents and visitors a meaningful connection to Saudi tradition through every cup.
7. Dessert & Coffee Pairings in Riyadh Cafes
A perfect coffee experience often ends with the right dessert — and Riyadh’s cafés take dessert pairing seriously. From pastries to locally inspired sweets, these cafés combine rich flavors with exceptional presentation.
1. L’ETO Café
Famous for its beautifully crafted cakes, L’ETO offers dessert pairings that complement their coffee perfectly. The Pistachio Rose Cake paired with a cappuccino is a city favorite.
2. Urth Caffé
Their Tiramisu and Spanish Latte combination is both indulgent and balanced. Urth’s focus on organic ingredients ensures every bite feels fresh and wholesome.
3. Patchi Café
A premium chocolate café that brings together luxury sweets and artisanal coffee. The pairing of dark chocolate truffles with Arabic coffee is a standout experience.
4. Brew92
Their bakery section offers freshly made cookies and croissants that elevate any coffee order — ideal for those seeking something simple yet satisfying.
Riyadh’s cafés are redefining dessert culture, turning each visit into a sensory journey that balances sweet indulgence with quality coffee craftsmanship.
8. Tips for Café Lovers in Riyadh
Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, exploring Riyadh’s café scene becomes more enjoyable when you know a few practical tips:
1. Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings (8–11 a.m.) are ideal for quiet coffee sessions.
- Afternoons and evenings (especially weekends) are busier but offer lively social atmospheres.
2. Dress Code:
While Riyadh’s café culture is modern and inclusive, it’s still advisable to dress modestly in line with local customs.
3. Reservations & Waiting Time:
Popular spots like Urth Caffé or Dose Café can have long waiting lines, especially on weekends. Reserving ahead (if possible) or visiting during off-peak hours is recommended.
4. Parking & Access:
Most cafés in commercial areas like Tahlia Street and Al Olaya have limited parking. Consider using ride-hailing services during busy times.
5. Local Events:
Riyadh regularly hosts coffee festivals, pop-ups, and workshops. Attending events like the Saudi Coffee Festival provides a deeper insight into local coffee craftsmanship.
6. Support Local:
Whenever possible, choose Saudi-owned cafés and roasters. Supporting local businesses contributes to the growth of Riyadh’s vibrant café community.
These small considerations ensure that your coffee experiences in Riyadh are enjoyable, smooth, and authentic.
9. Map of Riyadh Cafes & Neighborhood Guide
Riyadh’s vast geography hosts diverse café zones — each with its own style and vibe.
1. Al Olaya District
Home to upscale and business-oriented cafés like Urth Caffé, Brew92, and Draft Café. Perfect for meetings or a professional atmosphere.
2. Tahlia Street
One of Riyadh’s trendiest streets, lined with luxury cafés and restaurants. Ideal for people-watching, evening coffee, and dessert outings.
3. Al Mohammadiyah & Al Malqa
Known for their boutique coffee shops and hidden gems. These neighborhoods host several local roasters and cozy cafés such as Flow Café and Camel Step.
4. Diriyah
The historical heart of Riyadh — featuring cafés that blend heritage with modern charm. Perfect for tourists who want to enjoy Arabic coffee in a cultural setting.
5. Riyadh Front & Boulevard City
These new entertainment districts combine modern shopping, dining, and café experiences. Expect a mix of global brands and local innovators.
6. Northern Riyadh
Rapidly growing with residential developments, Northern Riyadh is seeing a rise in new café openings that cater to families and local communities.
Exploring these neighborhoods helps you experience Riyadh’s full coffee diversity, from high-end lounges to creative local startups.
10. Conclusion: Riyadh — The Coffee Capital of Saudi Arabia
Riyadh’s café culture has matured into a reflection of the city itself — modern, ambitious, and deeply connected to its roots. What started as small coffee corners has transformed into a thriving ecosystem of roasters, baristas, and creative entrepreneurs.
Each café offers something unique — whether it’s the craftsmanship of specialty coffee, the charm of Arabic qahwa, or the design of Instagram-worthy interiors. Together, they form a landscape that celebrates both innovation and tradition.
As we move through 2025, Riyadh continues to position itself as a regional leader in café excellence, attracting tourists, locals, and digital nomads alike.
So, whether you’re sipping a V60 in a minimalist roastery, enjoying qahwa in a traditional majlis, or watching the sunset from a rooftop café, one thing is certain — Riyadh has mastered the art of coffee.
Looking for more cafés across Saudi Arabia?
Visit Saudi Coffee Crafters — your go-to guide for discovering coffee shops, roasters, and café experiences in every Saudi city.
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