Where We Are Going Today: ‘Katsu Sando’ Japanese sandwiches in Riyadh
For lunch, Katsu Sando’s bento delight is a great option. It features donburi chicken with rice, crab onigiri, a pumpkin slice, and a Coca-Cola, providing a well-rounded and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy
Updated 21 July 2024
Waad Hussain
Nestled in the bustling heart of Riyadh, Katsu Sando offers an authentic slice of Japan right in the Kingdom’s capital. This cozy eatery, with its minimalist yet elegant decor, beautifully marries traditional Japanese elements with modern touches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Katsu Sando specializes in Japanese sandwiches, presenting a diverse menu perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant’s commitment to cleanliness is evident in every detail, from the meticulous packaging to the tasteful decoration, ensuring a casual yet refined dining experience.
A standout on the breakfast menu is the tuna onigiri. This delightful dish strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it an ideal light start to your day. For those with a sweet tooth, the fruit sando is a must-try; it combines fresh fruit with soft, pillowy Japanese bread, offering a refreshing and satisfying treat.
For lunch, Katsu Sando’s bento delight is a great option. It features donburi chicken with rice, crab onigiri, a pumpkin slice, and a Coca-Cola, providing a well-rounded and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy.
The restaurant’s menu is diverse, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a light breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Katsu Sando has something to offer. Their creative combinations and high-quality ingredients ensure a unique and memorable dining experience.
Katsu Sando not only offers delicious Japanese sandwiches but also promises a pleasant dining experience that will leave you wanting more.
For more updates and information, visit their Instagram @katsusando_sa.
The pasta salad featured a colorful mix of ingredients including kale, carrots, green bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and dried cranberries, all topped off with succulent grilled shrimp and a light ranch dressing
Updated 26 April 2025
Rahaf Jambi
Salad To Go in Riyadh has quickly become my go-to spot for a satisfying meal that doesn’t weigh me down.
On my most recent visit, I was particularly impressed with the crab salad and the pasta salad. Each was bursting with flavor and freshness, and I was able to indulge without my usual post-meal guilt.
The crab salad stood out because of the sour mango shreds which added layers of sweet and sour flavors.
The pasta salad featured a colorful mix of ingredients including kale, carrots, green bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and dried cranberries, all topped off with succulent grilled shrimp and a light ranch dressing.
However, I was underwhelmed by the fattah salad, which did not have the balance of flavors that I was hoping for.
Salad To Go’s prices are very reasonable considering the generous portion sizes on offer. If you're looking for an extra protein boost, add-ons are available.
The restaurant also offers a large salad box option for SR85 ($23), which is great for larger parties, or when you want to sample a little of everything.
You can, of course, also customize your own salad.
Salad to Go is a must-try for anyone seeking a light and satisfying meal. Home delivery is also available.
The female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh that aim to empower women
Yoga, Pilates studios provide safe, calm environment
‘I have met some pretty incredible women,’ Australian customer says
Updated 25 April 2025
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: A number of female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh are aiming to provide empowering communities for women, driven by the desire for privacy and comfort.
Locations like gyms, pools and even some theme parks have created safe spaces exclusively for women on designated days.
This allows women to dress freely and engage in activities that foster a sense of community.
"Yoga by Sunset", a serene environment dedicated solely to women. (Supplied)
One such place is Sunsets Yoga, a serene studio environment dedicated solely to women.
It offers an array of classes and programs focused on health and wellness and also has an entertainment center where women can unwind and connect.
“Sunsets Yoga was born out of my passion for yoga and my deep desire to help people,” owner Wateen Al-Tuwaijri told Arab News.
Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded.
Emma Shirley
“I opened this space because I believe in the transformative power of yoga — not just for the body, but for the mind and soul as well.
“My goal for Sunsets Yoga is to create a welcoming, peaceful environment where individuals can escape the stresses of daily life, reconnect with themselves and grow both physically and mentally.”
“Yoga is a universal tool for balance and I wanted to ensure that women here have access to a space where they can focus on their health and well-being without any barriers. (Supplied)
Al-Tuwaijri said it was “especially important” to have places in Riyadh that cater exclusively to women.
“Yoga is a universal tool for balance and I wanted to ensure that women here have access to a space where they can focus on their health and well-being without any barriers.
“It’s about supporting their journey of self-discovery and personal growth in a place where they can feel free, strong and inspired.”
The studio offered a range of regular, pre/post-natal and customized private training sessions. (Supplied)
Al-Tuwaijri said she wanted to build “a community that supports, encourages and nurtures” people.
Another prominent female-only space is the reformer Pilates studio Bdn in Al-Rayyan District.
“I’ve been practicing reformer Pilates for over 15 years now and swear by it,” owner Najd Al-Hatlani said.
Another prominent female-only space is "Bdn", a Pilates studio designed specifically for women. (Supplied)
“It has given me impeccable self-awareness regarding my body and how the smallest muscles move to support the larger ones … it has completely changed my perspective regarding all workouts.
She said she opened the studio to serve an untapped market in the east of Riyadh.
“Female-oriented spaces have always been part of our cultural heritage and experience. I think it’s important to continue to offer these safe haven spaces for women in order to maximize their well-being.
“As kind as many people want to be, we as women have shared far too many similar experiences through life which makes it comforting to be in the same room as that unspoken supportive energy.”
The studio offered a range of regular, pre/post-natal and customized private training sessions, Al-Hatlani said.
Emma Shirley, an Australia living in Riyadh, is a regular at Bdn.
“Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. My go-to Pilates studio in Riyadh is Bdn. I have been going there for a few months.
“Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded.”
Where We Are Going Today: Ramen Restaurant – authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine in Riyadh
The kimchi jjigae (SR90) brought comfort in a bowl — hearty, warm, and loaded with kimchi, tofu, and beef
Updated 25 April 2025
Waad Hussain
This cozy spot in Riyadh Park is officially my new favorite ramen destination.
Ramen Restaurant blends authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine with warm interiors and traditional seating that make you feel like you have stepped out of the mall and into a corner of Tokyo or Seoul.
We kicked things off with a complimentary banchan, then moved on to the beef dumplings at SR44 ($11.73), which were tender and juicy with a crisp bite.
The dakgalbi (SR82), a bubbling dish of cheesy rice cakes and chicken ribs, came packed with rich flavors and that perfect spicy kick.
The kimchi jjigae (SR90) brought comfort in a bowl — hearty, warm, and loaded with kimchi, tofu, and beef.
But the real standout? The special jjampong ramen (SR85) — a bold, seafood-rich broth with chewy noodles and just the right amount of heat. Every bite was layered, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.
Yes, the prices are on the higher side, but the quality and authenticity of the food easily justify the cost. From flavor to presentation, every dish felt thoughtfully made.
One downside, though, is that the establishment does not serve sushi — which might disappoint some diners expecting a full Japanese menu.
Also, it can get a bit busy during peak hours, so service may slow down slightly. It is best to visit early or make a reservation if you are going with a group.
Still, if you are looking for a genuine Korean-Japanese dining experience in Riyadh, this one is a must on your food bucket list.
For more details, check the restaurant’s Instagram @ramen.ksa
Where We Are Going Today: Beit Al-Khawajah, Lebanese restaurant in Riyadh
Updated 23 April 2025
Haifa Alshammari
Beit Al-Khawajah, a Lebanese restaurant in Riyadh, offers an inviting, cozy and family-friendly atmosphere.
During my visit, I tried the laham bel ajeen for SR33 ($8), and while I am normally not a big fan of the dish, I really liked their version. It was not too spicy and the meat was baked well. It is worth trying.
I am a big fan of eggs for breakfast, so I ordered the omelette with cheese, but my experience was disappointing. The dish looked appealing and the eggs were cooked well, but I could not finish it because it was too salty. I also thought the price was a bit high.
Other items that I liked were the kebabs and selection of Lebanese pita bread. If you want a vegetarian option, try the qallayat al-khawajah, a sauteed fresh tomato in olive oil with salt, pepper, Middle Eastern herbs and spices.
While my visit was not perfect, the overall experience at Beit Al-Khawajah was good. It is a nice spot to visit with friends or family, especially because of the Middle Eastern cultural vibes.
The space has wide windows allowing sunlight to enter the entire dining area. The bright and colorful arrangement adds positivity and warmth to the experience.
Where We Are Going Today: Whoa Tea & Desserts in Riyadh
What makes this spot even more fun is the game-friendly atmosphere
Updated 22 April 2025
Waad Hussain
If you live in Riyadh and love bubble tea and board games, Whoa Tea is a must-visit. Tucked in Al-Wizarat, this fun, laid-back spot brings together playful energy and some of the best boba in the city — all in one cozy setting.
We tried the brown sugar boba for SR 25 ($6.67), and it was everything you’d want in a classic: rich, creamy, and perfectly chewy pearls with that deep caramelized flavor.
The passionfruit lemon tea was a refreshing contrast — fruity, light, and ideal for hot Riyadh afternoons.
For dessert, the molten cheesecake for SR 23 was warm and gooey on the inside with a rich, slightly tangy center, and the original puff for SR 18 was light, crisp, and subtly sweet — perfect as a snack alongside your drink.
What makes this spot even more fun is the game-friendly atmosphere. They offer a wide variety of board games you can enjoy while sipping your tea, making it a perfect hangout spot for friends or even a casual solo escape.
One downside, though, is that seating can fill up fast, especially in the evenings, so it’s not always easy to find a quiet corner during peak hours.
If you’re a boba lover in Riyadh, Whoa Tea should be on your bucket list.
