Best Italian restaurants in Riyadh (Top 20 Picks for 2026) has rapidly become one of the most exciting destinations for Italian cuisine in the Middle East, offering a rich blend of authentic flavors, contemporary twists, and unforgettable dining experiences. From elegant fine‑dining establishments and rooftop venues with breathtaking views to cozy neighborhood pizzerias and charming trattorias, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re seeking classic pasta dishes, artisanal pizzas, or modern Mediterranean interpretations, Italian food lovers are well‑served in Riyadh’s vibrant culinary scene. These top 20 restaurants showcase not only the diversity of Italian gastronomy but also Riyadh’s flair for world‑class hospitality. Join us as we explore the best places to enjoy Italian cuisine across the province, each offering taste, atmosphere, and a distinct dining experience.
Top best Italian restaurants in Riyadh
Riyadh boasts a vibrant Italian dining scene, featuring a mix of elegant fine-dining restaurants, cozy pizzerias, and contemporary eateries. From authentic pastas and wood-fired pizzas to innovative dishes inspired by regional Italian cuisine, the city offers something for every palate. Many restaurants combine exceptional food with inviting atmospheres, making them perfect for family meals, romantic dinners, or special occasions. Whether you’re craving traditional flavors or modern Italian twists, Riyadh’s top Italian restaurants promise a memorable culinary experience.
1: Azzurro
Azzurro is a premier Italian restaurant located within the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, at Al Hada, MJ8J+43R, طريق مكة المكرمة، حي. The restaurant offers an elegant and sophisticated Italian dining experience, featuring a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients and Sardinian cuisine. Signature dishes include balsamic vinegar pappardelle and Sardinian ravioli enhanced with fresh mint, lime zest, and butter, delivering a refined and flavorful culinary experience. Azzurro is open every day of the week, serving lunch from 12:00–3:30 PM (12:30–3:30 PM on Monday to Wednesday) and dinner from 7:00 PM–12:00 AM, making it an ideal destination for both midday meals and evening indulgence.
2: LA RUSTICA
LA RUSTICA is a charming pizzeria situated in the vibrant Olaya district of Riyadh, at Wadi Al Artawi St, Riyadh 12212, Saudi Arabia, an area renowned for its bustling financial scene and iconic landmarks. Managed by a skilled Saudi woman trained in the art of pizza making in Naples, the restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience. Its cozy interior, featuring brick walls, provides an intimate atmosphere, though its popularity often leads to a queue. LA RUSTICA is open daily, serving from 12:00 PM–12:30 AM (with extended hours varying slightly on certain days), making it an ideal spot for both lunch and late-night pizza cravings.
3: Serafina Italian Restaurant
Serafina Italian Restaurant, located at The Esplanade, King Saud University, Riyadh 12371, Saudi Arabia, is a cozy eatery that brings a creative twist to homestyle Italian cuisine. Originally from New York, this warm and inviting restaurant in Riyadh emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and offers a casual-cool dining atmosphere. With its Northern Italian roots, Serafina is renowned for its cheese-wheel pastas and an extensive dessert menu, featuring indulgent treats such as dreamy gelato, making it a favorite spot for both authentic flavors and comforting Italian classics.
4: San Carlo Cicchetti Riyadh
San Carlo Cicchetti is an elegant Italian restaurant located at 2637 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12234, Saudi Arabia, in حي السليمانية. The restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience inspired by Venetian cuisine, specializing in cicchetti, small plates or side dishes designed for sharing. With a focus on pasta and meat dishes, San Carlo Cicchetti provides a sociable and interactive Italian dining experience, perfect for enjoying a variety of flavors in a convivial atmosphere.
5: Cipriani Riyadh
Cipriani Riyadh, located at 6927 Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13512, Saudi Arabia, is part of the acclaimed Cipriani restaurant group, renowned for its glamorous Italian dining experience. Situated in the prestigious Hittin district, the restaurant attracts an international crowd eager to enjoy Italian cuisine and signature Bellinis. The elegant interior features Murano glass chandeliers, blue and white terrazzo tiles, high-gloss oak tables, and bespoke leather chairs, creating a luxurious atmosphere. Cipriani Riyadh’s menu offers indulgent Italian dishes alongside Venetian classics, making it a prime destination for upscale Italian dining.
6: Signor Sassi Riyadh
Signor Sassi is a London-born Italian restaurant that has expanded to Dubai and Riyadh, establishing itself as a popular dining destination in the region. Located at 2605 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12234, Saudi Arabia, the restaurant offers an upscale take on Italian classics, with a menu of over 100 dishes curated by Chef Filippo. Housed in an opulent villa setting in As Sulimaniyah, Signor Sassi has attracted celebrities and royalty alike. Diners can enjoy generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine, including signature dishes such as spaghetti with lobster and avocado Bernado. The restaurant is open daily, with lunch and late-night hours, making it ideal for both casual and special-occasion dining.
7: Finzione
Finzione da Pizza, located on Anas Ibn Malik Rd, Al Malqa, Riyadh 13524, Saudi Arabia, offers an authentic Italian culinary experience that goes beyond a traditional pizzeria. Renowned for the craftsmanship of its pizza dough, the restaurant achieves a perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. While some toppings, like mushroom, may fall short for certain diners, the overall flavors more than make up for it. The interior is simple rather than extravagant, but the fast service and friendly staff create a welcoming and enjoyable dining atmosphere. Finzione da Pizza is open daily, serving from midday until late at night, making it an ideal spot for both lunch and late-night meals.
8: Altopiano
Altopiano, located at Unit 19, Bujairi Terrace, Al Bujairi, Diriyah 13711, Saudi Arabia, is a charming restaurant that blends Sicilian and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Nestled in the vibrant Bujairi Terrace, it captures the essence of southern Italy with rustic decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home. The menu features a variety of hearty dishes, including fresh pasta, stuffed meats, and classic pizzas that celebrate both Italian roots and local flavors. Altopiano is open daily, serving from late afternoon to late at night, offering an ideal setting for both casual meals and evening dining experiences.
9: Piatto Restaurant
Piatto Restaurant, located at 2587-2605 Northern Ring Branch Rd, Al Maseef 13312, Riyadh 11464, Saudi Arabia, offers a charming Italian-inspired dining experience reminiscent of the city of Biella. The inviting interior, featuring red-bricked walls and cobblestone floors, creates a warm and memorable atmosphere for guests. Piatto serves an extensive menu of authentic Italian cuisine throughout the day, including lunch, dinner, and brunch, with late-night options available for those seeking a special meal after hours. Its combination of casual elegance and flavorful dishes has made it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
10: Annabella Ristorante Italiano
Annabella Ristorante Italiano, located in Levels Mall at 8089 Northern Ring Rd, Almasiaf, Riyadh 12467, Saudi Arabia, offers a delightful Italian dining experience in the vibrant heart of the city. The charming restaurant features a cozy interior decorated with traditional street-scene elements and a leafy terrace, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco. Its menu celebrates authentic Italian cuisine, with a variety of dishes prepared from fresh, seasonal ingredients and cooked to perfection in a traditional Tuscan oven, providing diners with a true taste of Italy.
11: Agio Riyadh
Agio Riyadh, located on Northern Ring Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13512, Saudi Arabia, is an Italian restaurant that brings the charm of the Amalfi Coast to the heart of the city. Nestled within The Canopy, it offers a welcoming atmosphere ideal for enjoying authentic Italian cuisine. Created by the renowned Modern Food Company, known for successful ventures such as BeefBar and Billionaire, Agio Riyadh combines Mediterranean elegance with a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant is open daily, serving from early afternoon into late night, making it perfect for both lunch and evening meals.
12: Cova Pasticceria
Cova Pasticceria, located at the Terrace, Al Bujairi, Diriyah 13711, Saudi Arabia, is a charming café known for its delightful selection of sweet treats and decaf coffee. Set in an inviting atmosphere, the café features attentive and elegant staff who enhance the overall experience. Visitors often praise the clean ambiance and the accommodating service, with many noting the personal touch of staff members by name. Cova Pasticceria is celebrated for its traditional Italian desserts, which are perfectly balanced in sweetness, and offers a welcoming environment that provides a unique glimpse into Saudi Arabian café culture. The café is open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
13: Il Gabbiano
Il Gabbiano, located at PM5H+9H2, Khalid Ibn Yazid Ibn Muawiyah, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12244, Saudi Arabia, is part of Il Villaggio and offers a diverse Italian dining experience ranging from casual meals to fine dining. The menu features a rich variety of dishes, with highlights including bruschetta, pizza, the popular Gabbing Salad, and classic tiramisu. Guests enjoy attentive and knowledgeable service from the staff, enhancing the overall dining experience. While prices are on the higher side, Il Gabbiano is celebrated as a fine dining destination, combining quality Italian cuisine with an elegant setting.
14: Spazio Restaurant
Spazio Restaurant, located on the 77th floor of Kingdom Tower, Al Urubah Rd, Riyadh 11576, Saudi Arabia, is a romantic rooftop dining destination offering breathtaking views of the city. Established in 2003, it has earned a reputation for exceptional Italian cuisine and a distinctive, elegant ambiance. The contemporary interior features cozy colors, stylish furnishings, and intimate lighting, creating the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. Spazio has become a preferred destination for esteemed guests worldwide, including members of royal families, presidents, prime ministers, and renowned artists.
15: La Piazza
La Piazza, located at 11623 King Abdullah Rd, Al Wurud, Riyadh 12343, Saudi Arabia, is an Italian restaurant situated inside the Sheraton Hotel. A favorite since 2016, it is known for its relaxing ambiance and attentive, accommodating staff. The restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine, with its pizza being a standout dish that has remained consistently excellent over the years. Guests also highly recommend the mixed seafood plate and the fresh salad buffet, making La Piazza a popular choice for both quality food and a calming dining experience. It is open daily, serving from late morning into late night.
16: Italian House
Italian House, located at PM79+WXC, King Fahd Rd, Ar Rahmaniyyah, Riyadh 12341, Saudi Arabia, is one of the city’s oldest and most cherished Italian restaurants. Its distinctive interior, featuring swinging plush green chairs and rustic brick walls, creates a cozy yet elegant atmosphere that encourages diners to relax and savor their meals. Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, Italian House serves a variety of pizzas, pastas, and salads, earning a loyal following among both locals and expatriates.
17: Crazy Pizza – Tahlia
Crazy Pizza – Tahlia, located on Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12243, Saudi Arabia, brings a vibrant taste of Italy to the heart of the city. Originating from Porto Cervo and later expanding through London, this lively eatery combines traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. It specializes in thin-crust, hand-tossed pizzas that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant is open daily, serving from early afternoon into late night, making it a perfect spot for casual dining or late-night pizza cravings.
18: Koshina Restaurant
Koshina Restaurant, located on Khurais Br Rd, Ar Rawdah, Riyadh 13211, Saudi Arabia, offers a warm and charming dining atmosphere. Known for its delectable Italian cuisine at affordable prices, it is an ideal spot for casual dinners. Guests can enjoy flavorful dishes prepared with care, complemented by friendly and attentive service from the staff. With its cozy ambiance and quality food at reasonable rates, Koshina Restaurant provides an inviting experience for those seeking authentic Italian flavors in Riyadh.
19: Mizo Eatery
Mizo Eatery, located at 6689, 4100 الطريق الدائري الشمالي، الغدير، الرياض 13311, Saudi Arabia, is a highly acclaimed Italian restaurant in Riyadh. Known for its exceptional cuisine, it has earned a perfect 5/5 rating, with patrons particularly praising the mouthwatering truffle pasta, a standout favorite. The restaurant also offers a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance, making it a popular choice for both casual and special-occasion dining. While prices are on the higher side, diners consider it well worth the cost for the quality and flavor of its Italian offerings.
20: Olivio’s Restaurant
Olivio’s Restaurant, located in the Radisson Blu Hotel on King Abdul Aziz Street, Ad Dhubbat, Riyadh 11415, Saudi Arabia, is a welcoming spot to enjoy an excellent Italian meal. The restaurant features a friendly and inviting atmosphere, complemented by attentive staff. The cuisine is both visually appealing and delicious, with steak dishes standing out as a particular highlight, expertly prepared by Chef Delwar. Olivio’s provides a satisfying Italian dining experience in a comfortable and pleasant setting.
FAQs
What types of Italian cuisine are available in Riyadh?
Riyadh offers a range from classic pasta and pizzas to Sardinian, Venetian, and Northern Italian specialties, including gourmet seafood and desserts.
Are these Italian restaurants suitable for families?
Yes, most restaurants provide a family-friendly atmosphere, with some offering casual dining for kids and others suitable for special occasions.
Do any restaurants offer outdoor or rooftop dining?
Yes, places like Spazio Restaurant offer rooftop dining with panoramic city views, while Annabella Ristorante Italiano has a leafy terrace for al fresco meals.
Are reservations required?
For fine dining spots like Cipriani, Signor Sassi, and Azzurro, reservations are recommended, especially on weekends or evenings.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Many restaurants provide vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as cheese pastas, pizzas, salads, and Italian desserts.
Which restaurants are best for late-night dining?
LA RUSTICA, Finzione da Pizza, Agio Riyadh, and Crazy Pizza – Tahlia offer late-night service, some open past midnight.
Final Thoughts:
Riyadh is home to a vibrant Italian dining scene that caters to every taste, from luxurious fine dining in lavish settings like Cipriani and Spazio to cozy pizzerias and dessert cafés such as LA RUSTICA and Cova Pasticceria. Whether you’re craving traditional pizzas, gourmet pastas, or decadent Italian desserts, these restaurants provide a mix of authentic flavors, warm atmospheres, and memorable culinary experiences, making the city a true hub for Italian gastronomy enthusiasts.
