Chef Daniel Boulud’s new restaurant in Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh takes you from breakfast to dinner with French finesse.
Riyadh’s culinary scene is on fire. With some of the most prominent global restaurants heading to Saudi Arabia, the capital has plenty of restaurants to explore, from Akira Back to Zuma. With celebrity chefs setting up shop in the Kingdom, the latest opening is the charming Cafe Boulud Riyadh.
Helmed by celebrated restaurateur Daniel Boulud, Cafe Boulud Riyadh is situated within the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, bringing a taste of fancy French dining to Saudi Arabia.
From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into what feels like a secret hideaway. The entrance features a warm welcome from the front desk, leading to an area that feels part bakery and part cellar before gradually transitioning into the grand dining room, where a stunning bar sets the stage for a memorable meal.
Cafe Boulud Riyadh strikes the perfect balance between old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. The 130-seat restaurant boasts antique mirrored glass, marble, and bronze accents, creating an inviting and warm setting. The seating arrangement, ranging from plush booths to wooden and marble-topped tables, offers a mix of comfort and class. Earthy tones of beige, brown, and sage mix seamlessly with dazzling gold and soft pink accents, unifying the space despite its distinct sections.
The conservatory terrace is a standout feature. Though enclosed and air-conditioned, its large windows and seductive ceiling drapes create the illusion of outdoor dining, making it a perfect retreat even in Riyadh’s scorching summers.
During our visit on a Saturday night for dinner, soft jazz played in the background, and the restaurant’s family-friendly approach was immediately noted. We started with a simple yet stunning dish, the Tomato & Burrata. As expected, it was fresh, juicy, and zesty. The ripe tomatoes sat on a bed of pesto, adding a kick to the creamy burrata. Elsewhere, the Tartare a la Parisienne provided a generous serving of hand-cut beef tenderloin mixed with pieces of sourdough bread. The tartare was perfectly balanced, creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy, with peppercorn adding a bold kick.
For the main course, we opted for the Salmon & Sumac, offerting an unexpected yet delightful fusion of French and Middle Eastern flavours. The grilled salmon was tender and buttery, with the sumac’s citrusy zing cutting through the fish. Topped with pine nuts and raisins, it delivered a mix of textures.
Though ordered well done, the Australian Wagyu Tenderloin was still tender and juicy. The dish featured a deep, rich broth made from the meat’s bone and fat, along with a smoky charred exterior that enhanced its flavour. The sweet potato puree on the side provided a velvety contrast, making the dish indulgent yet balanced. We paired this up with Cafe Boulud Riyadh’s Zen Tonic, a bitter yet refreshing mocktail infused with lemongrass that perfectly balanced the richness of the steak.
Having grown up in the capital, the Cafe Riyadh dessert menu called out to us. This item arrived in a sleek bowl, featuring delicate gold flakes sprinkled over shavings of what felt like hardened caramel and date mixture. Underneath was a silky, mousse-like layer infused with Saudi coffee and dates. The nostalgic taste instantly transported us back to the 90s as the taste was similar to the beloved Gishta Al Taj — a staple in Saudi households. Paired with crispy churros, lightly dusted with cinnamon sugar and caramel dipping sauce, this dessert was the perfect end to a marvellous meal.
Service at Cafe Boulud Riyadh was prompt, thoughtful, and accommodating. The team ensured our young guest was comfortable, and the overall attentiveness to the meal enhanced the experience. With its elegant setting and a menu that marries French traditions with local influences, it’s a superb spot that’s set to find a firm footing in the city’s flourishing dining scene.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.