With AlUla slowly becoming the Middle East‘s hotspot and Saudi Arabia’s masterpiece, international restaurants are slowly popping up all over the cultural, historical city to cater to visitors.
Via Instagram
From contemporary Japanese cuisine to local Saudi cuisine. Alula has it all and you’re in ~luck~ because we’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in AlUla that you just *cannot* miss while you’re there:
MYAZU
Myazu is contemporary Japanese cuisine, with a touch of international influences. It can be located poolside at the Shaden resort and has live DJs every Thursday and Friday. The restaurant serves only the finest modern dishes, with the highest quality of ingredients.
Cosmo-approved orders: Crispy Duck & Watermelon Salad, Chan San, Beef Takikomi-Gohan, Myazu Fries, Wagyu Sando.
SOMEWHERE
The Dubai-based restaurant is finally in Saudi (yay!) It’s located on a farm in the new AlJadidah Village, within the cultural Oasis District. The main concept of Somewhere is for it to be a family place where you can enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
Cosmo-approved orders: Chicken Musakhan Rolls, Batata Harra Fries, Chicken Shawarma Bao, Beef Shawarma Beetroot Rice, Cerelac Umm Ali.
LE MASCHOU
From the alleyways of France to the Old Town in AlUla. Le Maschou is known for its french authenticity, sophisticated ambiance, and rich flavours. The interior has a homestyle touch that helps create a cozy environment for customers.
Cosmo-Approved orders: Thinly Fried Eggplant Chips, Black Angus Tenderloin Carpaccio, Australian Black Onyx Tenderloin, Potato Puree, Tiramisu.
OKTO
At the top of Harrat Uwayrid, Okto managed to score themselves a spot with one of the best views. This authentic Greek cuisine is developed by chef, Ntinos Fotinakis. A stunning view and good food? What more do you need?
Cosmo-approved orders: Grilled Haloumi Salad, Okto Sliders, Fried Haloumi, Chicken Gyros, Lamb Chops, Truffle Pasta, Truffle Mash.
ANNABEL’S ALULA
Annabel Mayfair is known for its exclusivity, its signature private dining areas, exquisite food, and mocktails. Annabel AlUla is somewhat the same, but the menu is inspired by the Saudi city. It offers a secluded area, surrounded by a tropical interior, located near the date palms of Jabal Ikmah. The restaurant also offers a set menu and mocktails using local ingredients, to add authenticity.
Cosmo-approved orders: Yellowfin Tuna Tartare Avocado & Ponzu, Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Chilli and Lime, Miso Black Cod Pickled Ginger & Asian Slaw, Strawberry & Coconut Eton Mess.
LE MOULIN BAKERY
Le Moulin is known for its delicious French pastries, from croissants to Zafron milk cakes. This bakery is located in AlUla’s Old Town and has an interior that is inspired by French cafes. We love an Instagrammable spot.
Cosmo-approved orders: Zafron milk cake, San Sebastian cake, Freshly made croissants.
SALT
Located near the Elephant Rock, Salt gives you a true AlUla experience. With a small food truck parked right by the rock, you get juicy burgers and mouth-watering milkshakes.
Cosmo-approved orders: Cheetos Burger, Truffle Burger, Salt, and vinegar fries.
MERKAZ
Enjoy the flavors of traditional Saudi cuisine in Merkaz. This restaurant is more laidback and relaxing, the perf scene to set for eating traditional Saudi food.
Cosmo-approved orders: Happiness Kabsa, Taman Hail, Mathloutha.
TAMA
This restaurant can be found in the luxurious Habitas Eco-Resort. Tama serves Middle Eastern cuisine with a touch of international, and its use of local, fresh spices and ingredients is what sets it apart from other restaurants.
Cosmo-Approved orders: Homemade Kunafa, Beet Hummus, Tiger Shrimp, Chicken Mandi, Spiced Carrots.
MARAYA SOCIAL
Maraya Social is located in the World’s largest Mirrored Building. Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton is the brains behind this restaurant and decided to create local cuisine amongst amazing scenery for this AlUla eatery.
Cosmo-approved orders: AlUla citrus cured Norwegian Salmon, Scallop Ceviche, Sea bass, Australian Lamb Loin.
CIRCOLO
Little Italy can now be located in AlJadidah District. This restaurant has an outstanding view of the valley near the district and is open for lunch & dinner. Circolo’s menu is carefully crafted from small plates to pizza fresh from the wood-fired oven.
Cosmo-approved orders: Black pasta lobster, Veal Milanese, Truffle pasta, Buratta.