The story
At Maiz in Riyadh, Saudi cuisine is brought to life with a refined vision that stays true to its roots while elevating every detail with grace and intention. Located on Al Bujairi Terrace in the historic district of Diriyah, this Michelin-recommended restaurant presents a curated journey through the 13 regions of Saudi Arabia, with Najd at its heart. Each dish reflects a piece of Saudi heritage, crafted with precision and presented to stir the senses and honor tradition.
The concept was born from the office of Al Khozama, a prominent player in Gulf hospitality. To build the menu, Maiz’s experienced resident chef traveled across Saudi Arabia, experiencing the food and aroma from every culture. The result is a single menu that combines regional dishes from across the kingdom, with unique styling and elements inherited from Saudi heritage. The menu was further redefined by a team of internationally renowned chefs.
Maiz describes itself as a unique fine dining concept set within a thematic Saudi Arabian cultural setting. The restaurant is part of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plan and sits in the historic Ad Diriyah area, offering a backdrop that complements the culinary experience. Expect a warm, luxurious ambience that blends Saudi hospitality with culinary opulence.
Beyond dining, Maiz serves as a cultural ambassador. The restaurant hosts themed nights celebrating Saudi music and offers private events for families, friends, tourists, and corporate gatherings. It also invites local Saudi talent to display their artistry—from paintings to crafts—through its Artisan program, making the restaurant a living gallery of Saudi culture. Whether you are seeking refined Saudi food in Riyadh or a deeper connection to the kingdom’s heritage, Maiz delivers an experience that is both authentic and elevated.
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It is one of the most convincing, authentically Saudi dining experiences in the city. In the Bujirai Terrace food hall, facing the magnificent At-Turaif citadel (don’t miss the 7pm sound-and-light show), this spacious venue feels like a private home where you're welcome with a greeting tea and a date before entering two long, adjoining dining rooms. The large communal tables contribute to the festive atmosphere of a cuisine proudly rooted in local tradition, supported by an enthusiastic staff who take pride in their work ; great care is given to presentation, plating, and finishing touches, starting with the thoughtful and flavorful amuse-bouches (tahini, olives, pea purée, date-fig purée with honey). The ingredients of the lovely jarji salad, smoked eggplant, herbs, and spices, are assembled in front of guests, just like the kubeila, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, gets an unexpected final flourish that brings together delicious stuffed vine leaves, slices of lamb, and potatoes in a subtly aromatic ensemble. The final mouhalabieh is technically perfect, adorned with a delicate ribbon of fresh fruit. Every detail counts, from the décor to the table setting, featuring beautifully crafted pottery, and the wide range of beverages, mocktails, fruit juices, alcohol-free beers and wines, caters to nearly every preference.
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