The Greatest Coffee in Riyadh: A Handbook for Coffee Addicts

by Robinjack on Oct 19th, 2024 19:12 PM

Riyadh, the thriving capital of Saudi Arabia, has become an increasingly vibrant hub for coffee enthusiasts. With a rapidly growing café culture, the city now boasts a range of coffee shops, from small artisanal brewers to trendy, upscale cafés. Whether you're a traditionalist who loves Arabic coffee (Qahwa) or a global coffee aficionado seeking the latest espresso trends, Riyadh has something special for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore some of the finest coffee spots in the city that every coffee lover should experience.

1. The Roastery by Mama Roti
Among Riyadh's finest spots for people who enjoy freshly brewed coffee, The Roastery has an immersive experience for coffee lovers. Their specialty is based on sourcing high-quality beans and roasting them in-house. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans fills the air as you step inside, and their menu offers a variety of drinks, from robust espressos to more delicate pour-overs. The minimalist yet cozy interior makes it an ideal position for quiet moments or a calm meeting.

Must-Try: Single-origin pour-over coffee, paired with their signature cinnamon bun.
2. Camel Step Coffee Roasters
Camel Step is a pioneer in Saudi Arabia's specialty coffee scene, and their Riyadh branch is a testament for their desire for perfect brews. The café focuses on traceable, high-quality beans sourced from around the world, and their baristas take great care in crafting each cup. Camel Step offers a wide selection of brewing methods, including AeroPress, V60, and Chemex. Their focus on sustainability and fair trade adds a moral edge to your coffee-drinking experience.

Must-Try: AeroPress brew using Ethiopian beans, known for their fruity and floral notes.
3. Cup & Couch
Cup & Couch is an invisible gem nestled in one's heart of Riyadh. This cozy café is known for its welcoming ambiance and quality coffee, which makes it the perfect spot to relax or meet up with friends. They specialize in espresso-based drinks but also provide cold brews and a choice of teas for variety. The café' s warm lighting and comfortable seating encourage you to linger, which makes it a fantastic spot to savor a great book or some productive work time.

Must-Try: Classic cappuccino or their refreshing cold brew.
4. Elixir Bunn
For a more modern, industrial vibe, visit Elixir Bunn, a café that stands out with its minimalist design and dedication to the craft of coffee-making. The baristas here are not only skilled but also passionate about educating customers on the intricacies of coffee brewing. Elixir Bunn is a perfect area for coffee aficionados who appreciate attention to detail atlanta divorce attorneys cup. In addition they offer a number of pastries and light snacks that complement their coffee selections.

Must-Try: Flat white or a V60 pour-over with beans from Kenya.
5. Greem Café
Greem Café is a newcomer on Riyadh's coffee scene but has quickly garnered attention for the quirky, aesthetically pleasing interiors and high-quality coffee. Inspired by Korean coffee culture Best Coffee in Riyadh, Greem Café offers a unique menu that blends traditional coffee offerings with creative twists. Their desserts are just as impressive, making this a great position for those with a nice tooth. It's also one of the very most Instagrammable spots in Riyadh, which makes it popular among the city's younger crowd.

Must-Try: Iced matcha latte or their specialty iced caramel macchiato.
6. Overdose Café
Using its sleek black-and-white decor and chic ambiance, Overdose Café is the spot to go if you're looking for a stylish spot to savor your caffeine fix. The café offers a well-rounded menu which includes both classic espresso drinks and more modern concoctions like iced lattes and cold brews. It's a well liked for folks who enjoy bold flavors and strong coffee, along with those that appreciate a trendy, sophisticated setting.

Must-Try: Spanish latte or their signature overdose blend.
7. White Foam
White Foam is a standout among Riyadh's coffee shops because of its luxurious and sleek design. This café prides itself on delivering exceptional coffee experiences in a high-end setting. They focus on serving quality coffee with a number of brewing methods, which makes it a haven for coffee connoisseurs. Whether you're set for a quick espresso or a carefully crafted pour-over, White Foam provides a premium experience for every visit.

Must-Try: Espresso macchiato or their rich mocha.
8. Draft Café
Draft Café is a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and top-tier coffee offerings. Located in one of Riyadh's more upscale neighborhoods, Draft prides itself on serving beautifully crafted coffee in a serene, minimalist environment. The café' s signature drinks include unique flavors, such as their lavender latte, which has changed into a favorite among regulars. Draft Café also offers selection of pastries and baked goods, which makes it a great choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Must-Try: Lavender latte or their iced Americano with a croissant on the side.
9. Najdi Village Coffee
For people who want to see the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia's coffee traditions, Najdi Village Coffee has an authentic experience. They serve traditional Saudi Arabian Qahwa, made out of green coffee beans, cardamom, and saffron. Paired with dates, this coffee is a cultural journey in itself. The setting is inspired by the heritage of the Najd region, offering a more traditional and immersive experience compared to the modern coffee shops round the city.

Must-Try: Traditional Saudi Qahwa with a side of fresh dates.
10. Sirocco Café
If you're looking for a café with an outdoor setting, Sirocco Café is the perfect spot. Positioned in a picturesque area of the city, it offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a calm atmosphere. Their coffee is sourced from top-quality beans and brewed to perfection. Sirocco is especially popular throughout the cooler months when you can enjoy your coffee on the outdoor patio. It's also a great spot to unwind and enjoy a calm evening after an active day.

Must-Try: Cortado or an iced flat white.
Final Thoughts
Riyadh's coffee scene is flourishing, with new cafés popping up regularly to cater to the city's growing love for quality brews. Whether you're in the mood for a quick espresso, a lingering pour-over, or even a unique specialty drink, Riyadh has it all. The next time you're in the city, make sure to explore these coffee spots and indulge in some of the finest coffee Riyadh must offer.