In the heart of Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, a new culinary landmark has emerged—one that redefines the conversation around Saudi gastronomy. NOMAS, the Kingdom’s first fine dining restaurant dedicated exclusively to Saudi cuisine, opened its doors on September 16 and 17 with an evening that blended refinement, culture, and artistry. More than a restaurant, NOMAS is a story—a sensory translation of Saudi identity where heritage becomes haute cuisine.
From the moment guests step inside, the experience unfolds as a modern tribute to the Kingdom’s soul. Designed by acclaimed Saudi interior designer Ghadeer Ashour, the space balances contemporary sophistication with subtle nods to tradition. Warm lighting, tactile textures, and handcrafted accents evoke the hospitality that lies at the heart of Saudi culture. Every detail carries meaning: table lamps hand-stitched by Saudi women in Jeddah, bespoke plates illustrating the narratives of regional craft, and custom cutlery that mirrors the poetry of local landscapes.
At the helm is a pioneering all-female leadership team—an emblem of the country’s evolving cultural narrative. Executive Chef Ahad Alghamdi leads with quiet mastery, transforming traditional recipes into modern expressions while preserving their authenticity. Alongside her, Outlets Manager Ebtisam Alkhaliaf ensures that service remains both precise and soulful. Together, they embody the strength and grace of Saudi women redefining fine dining in the Kingdom.
The menu at NOMAS reads like a love letter to Saudi Arabia’s regional diversity. Each dish captures a story—of place, memory, and emotion. Signature creations such as Hashi Steak glazed with Saudi coffee, Najdi Lamb Shoulder with Hassawi rice, and Ocean Sayaadih enriched with spice reveal a delicate balance between innovation and heritage. Every course carries the rhythm of Saudi cuisine elevated to international artistry, yet rooted deeply in the familiar warmth of home.
The grand opening celebrated this harmony through a multi-course dinner set to live oud music, reflecting the cultural spirit that underpins the NOMAS philosophy. With lunch service now launched from September 21, the restaurant extends its offering to new audiences eager to discover Saudi Arabia’s evolving culinary identity.
Already recognized by Time Out Riyadh as one of the city’s most distinguished dining destinations and highly commended in the Best Saudi Restaurant category, NOMAS stands at the threshold of a defining chapter—one that could see it become the first Saudi restaurant to earn a Michelin star.
As Riyadh ascends as a global gastronomic hub, NOMAS embodies a new era of Saudi expression: confident, elegant, and deeply authentic. It is more than fine dining—it is an invitation to experience Saudi Arabia’s heritage reborn through design, storytelling, and the art of flavor.
For reservations, call +966 50 325 9990.
