Best Korean Restaurants in Riyadh 2026: Top 12 Spots for BBQ, Fried Chicken and More

Korean cuisine is gaining popularity in Riyadh, with restaurants offering everything from sizzling barbecue to comforting stews. Whether you’re craving authentic bulgogi or spicy tteokbokki, these restaurants deliver an exceptional experience.

The Rise of Korean Food in Riyadh

Korean cuisine has become one of the fastest-growing food trends in Riyadh, driven by a generation of young Saudis and expats who grew up watching Korean dramas, listening to K-pop, and discovering Korean food culture through social media. What was once a niche expat cuisine for the small Korean community in Riyadh has transformed into one of the most exciting and rapidly expanding corners of the city’s food scene.

The appeal is multidimensional. Korean BBQ offers something distinctly interactive: you grill your own meat at the table, surrounded by small side dishes called banchan that arrive without you having to order them. The communal, hands-on experience resonates deeply with Saudi dining culture, where shared meals and extended table time are the norm. Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bibimbap (mixed rice bowls), and kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) have each developed dedicated followings independently.

Riyadh’s Korean restaurant scene in 2026 has also been validated by the Korean expat community, the most reliable barometer of authenticity. Seoul KSA is described as vouched for by Korean expats, the highest form of endorsement for any Korean restaurant in the Gulf.

The new cluster of Korean restaurants along Sulaymaniyah and at The Zone in Al Mohammadiyyah has created what feels like a genuine Korean dining corridor in the city, where multiple venues compete on quality, atmosphere, and authenticity.

1. Koyee Korean BBQ

Riyadh’s Most Complete Korean BBQ Experience

Koyee Korean BBQ is easily the most talked-about Korean restaurant in Riyadh right now. Located at The Zone, the open-air commercial complex in Al Mohammadiyyah that has become one of the city’s most dynamic dining destinations, Koyee brings sizzling Korean barbecue straight to your table with the full package: high-quality grilled meats, hearty Korean soups and sides, and a distinctly fun atmosphere that makes the meal an event rather than just a dinner.

The Dolsot Bibimbap (Stone Pot Mixed Rice) is the most-ordered main course and the dish that Koyee’s regulars recommend above anything else. The rice arrives in a sizzling stone pot, continuing to cook at the table, with a crispy rice crust forming at the bottom. The Mango Bingsoo (a refreshing shaved ice dessert with mango puree, condensed milk, and chunks of mango) is described as a textural delight and has become something of a calling card for Koyee on social media.

Some reviewers note that prices are on the higher end compared to other Korean options in Riyadh, but consistently add that the quality justifies it. The Squid Game-inspired games available during the meal add a playful layer to the experience that groups and families particularly enjoy.

Must order: Dolsot Bibimbap, mixed BBQ selection, Mango Bingsoo.

The vibe: Lively, social, interactive table BBQ experience. Ideal for groups, families, and first-timers to Korean food.

Location: The Zone, Al Takhassousi Street, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh Contact: +966 5054 998 24 Hours: Sunday to Wednesday noon to 11:30pm; Thursday noon to 12:30am; Friday 12:30pm to 12:30am; Saturday noon to 12:30am Instagram: @koyeebbq Price range: Mid to premium (SAR 90 to 160 per person) Delivery: Available on HungerStation

2. Seoul KSA (Seoul Restaurant)

The Korean Expat’s Choice

Seoul KSA carries the most important credential a Korean restaurant outside Korea can have: it is vouched by Korean expats living in Riyadh as genuinely authentic. When the Korean community itself chooses a restaurant, it is a reliable signal that the food meets a standard beyond the approximations that pass for Korean food in many international markets.

Located in As Sulaymaniyah, Seoul KSA offers a menu covering the essentials of Korean dining: grilled meats, Korean soups and stews, banchan sides, and BBQ options. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the experience is described as comfortable and authentic. Flavourful chicken, meat, and shrimp, with the option to grill your meats yourself while a pot of hearty soup simmers on the side, ensures a fun dining experience. The mixed BBQ is recommended for a complete feast.

Must order: Mixed BBQ platter, any soup (ask the server for today’s recommendation), banchan spread.

The vibe: Authentic, comfortable, Korean-community-approved. More understated than Koyee but more trusted for authenticity.

Location: As Sulaymaniyah, Riyadh Hours: Saturday to Wednesday noon to midnight; Thursday to Friday noon to 1am Instagram: @seoul_ksa Price range: Mid (SAR 80 to 150 per person)

3. Woo Samgyup

The Relaxed Mixed BBQ Specialist

Woo Samgyup (the name references samgyupsal, Korean grilled pork belly) is the choice for a laid-back Korean BBQ evening without the higher-intensity atmosphere of Koyee. Located in As Sulaymaniyah, it serves juicy, marinated meats and hearty Korean sides in a setting that is explicitly described as relaxed and casual.

The mixed BBQ platter is the recommended order when you want to try a bit of everything: different cuts of meat served raw for table-grilling, with the full banchan spread alongside. Woo Samgyup is particularly well-suited for smaller groups of two to four people who want the BBQ experience in a quieter setting than the Zone restaurants provide.

Must order: Mixed BBQ platter, japchae (glass noodles), and kimchi pancake.

The vibe: Casual, laid-back, neighborhood BBQ. Best for smaller groups who want a relaxed evening.

Location: As Sulaymaniyah, Riyadh Hours: Saturday to Wednesday noon to midnight; Thursday to Friday noon to 1am Instagram: @wsamgyup Price range: Mid (SAR 75 to 130 per person)

4. Young Jae’s

The Best Korean Fried Chicken in Riyadh, Delivered to Your Door

Young Jae’s occupies a unique position in Riyadh’s Korean food scene: it is a delivery-first concept that has arguably built the strongest reputation for Korean fried chicken in the city, doing so entirely without a dine-in experience. This is a family-run business with a focused menu, executed at an excellent level.

Korean fried chicken is notably different from Western fried chicken. The batter is thinner, crispier, and less greasy, and it stays crunchy longer. Young Jae’s batter is described as hot, juicy, and addictive, with options such as chicken strips, wings, and half-chicken pieces. The dessert tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes served as a dessert-style accompaniment rather than the savory main-course version) is particularly noted as a must-add.

Young Jae’s is available on HungerStation, Jahez, ToYou, The Chefz, and other major delivery platforms. It is one of the most affordable Korean options in Riyadh and consistently receives strong ratings on delivery apps.

Must order: Fried chicken (any style), dessert tteokbokki, and Korean banchan sides.

The vibe: Delivery-only, family-run, focused quality. The go-to for Korean fried chicken at home.

Hours: Sunday to Thursday noon to 2am; Friday 5:30pm to 2am; Saturday 3:30pm to 2am Delivery: HungerStation, Jahez, ToYou, The Chefz, and more Price range: Budget to mid (SAR 40 to 80 per person)

5. Meatin Grills

The Group BBQ Feast

Meatin Grills in Al Yasmin is the choice when maximum quantity and variety of grilled meat is the priority. This spot is all about loading your table with cuts of beef, chicken, and seafood, ready for the grill. Huge portions, lots of sides, and a lively atmosphere make it a top choice for group outings.

For large groups of six or more who want the Korean BBQ experience without reservation complexity, Meatin Grills is consistently recommended as one of the most reliably satisfying Korean restaurants in Riyadh for sheer volume and variety of the BBQ experience. Open hours extend late on weekends.

Must order: Full mixed BBQ spread, any of the beef cuts, seafood additions.

The vibe: Large portions, lively and festive, best for groups.

Location: Al Yasmin, Riyadh Hours: Saturday to Wednesday 1pm to midnight; Thursday to Friday 1pm to 1am Instagram: @meatingrills Price range: Mid (SAR 80 to 160 per person)

6. HANKKI

Riyadh’s First Korean Street Food Restaurant

HANKKI holds a distinctive place in Riyadh’s Korean food history: it was Riyadh’s first dedicated Korean street food restaurant. The concept is built around the most beloved components of Korean street food culture: eight different styles of fried chicken, original and mini gimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), cupbap (rice cups), and ramen.

HANKKI serves the person who wants to experience Korean food in a lighter, snack-and-small-plate format rather than committing to a full BBQ session. It is also an excellent introduction to Korean cuisine for first-timers, as the dishes are approachable and individually priced at accessible levels.

Must order: Gimbap, fried chicken (try multiple styles), tteokbokki, ramen.

The vibe: Casual, street food energy, accessible and approachable for Korean beginners.

Price range: Budget (SAR 35 to 75 per person)

7. Gogi House

Traditional Korean Dining in the City

Gogi House is one of the established Korean restaurants in Riyadh with a full menu covering grilled meats, Korean soups, bibimbap variations, and the full banchan spread. It draws a loyal following for its consistent quality and range of dishes beyond just BBQ.

For diners who want a complete Korean dining experience rather than just a BBQ-focused meal, Gogi House’s broader menu makes it the more versatile choice. The name (Gogi, meaning meat in Korean) telegraphs the focus, but the surrounding menu is more complete than most BBQ-specialist restaurants.

Must order: Galbi (short ribs), bibimbap, doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), banchan selection.

Price range: Mid (SAR 70 to 140 per person)

8. Han Gang Korean Restaurant

Steady Quality for Korean Comfort Food

Han Gang is a well-regarded Korean restaurant in Riyadh serving reliable versions of Korean comfort food classics: bibimbap, Korean stews (jjigae), grilled dishes, and noodle soups. Its reputation is built on consistency rather than spectacle, making it a trusted return-visit choice for Korean food enthusiasts who know what they want and expect it delivered correctly.

Must order: Bibimbap, any jjigae (stew), grilled meat. Price range: Mid (SAR 65 to 130 per person)

9. Korean BBQ Express

Fast, Affordable Korean for the Delivery Generation

Korean BBQ Express bridges the gap between full sit-down Korean BBQ restaurants and delivery platforms. It offers a condensed menu of the most popular Korean dishes at delivery-friendly prices, making it the practical choice for a quick Korean meal at home or the office.

Best for: Delivery, weeknight Korean meals, budget-conscious Korean food lovers. Price range: Budget (SAR 35 to 65 per person)

10. Ssarizz

Korean Fusion Meets Riyadh

Ssarizz is a Korean concept that leans into fusion, pairing traditional dishes with Korean flavors adapted for the Riyadh palate, featuring some creative combinations. Popular with the younger crowd who discovered Korean food through social media and K-drama culture rather than direct Korean community experience.

Must order: Ask for the fusion specials; the Korean-meets-Middle-East combinations are the talking point. Price range: Mid (SAR 65 to 120 per person)

A Korean Food Glossary: What to Expect When You Go

For first-timers, understanding the key dishes and concepts before you arrive makes the experience significantly better.

Korean BBQ (Gogigui): The centerpiece of most Riyadh Korean restaurants. Raw or marinated meat is cooked on a grill built into your table. The meat arrives in specific cuts: galbi (short ribs, usually beef), samgyupsal (pork belly), bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated beef), and dak (chicken). In Saudi Arabia, beef and chicken are the primary proteins since pork is not served.

Banchan: The parade of small side dishes that arrives before or with your main course, entirely without ordering them. Common banchan includes kimchi (fermented cabbage), kongnamul (bean sprout salad), spinach, pickled radish, and seasoned tofu. Banchan is refillable and free. Never feel shy about asking for more.

Bibimbap: A bowl of rice topped with seasoned vegetables, a fried egg, and chili paste (gochujang), served in a regular bowl or a sizzling stone pot (Dolsot Bibimbap). Mix everything together before eating.

Tteokbokki: Chewy cylindrical rice cakes cooked in a spicy-sweet red sauce. One of the most popular Korean street foods and now widely available in Riyadh.

Gimbap: Korean rice rolls wrapped in seaweed, filled with vegetables, egg, and meat. Similar in appearance to sushi but very different in flavor: no raw fish, different seasonings, typically eaten as a snack or light meal.

Kimchi Jjigae: Kimchi stew. A rich, sour, spicy soup built on fermented kimchi with tofu and meat. One of the most comforting dishes in Korean cuisine and a reliable indicator of a restaurant’s quality.

Bingsoo: Korean shaved ice dessert. The classic version is patbingsoo (with red bean paste), but mango bingsoo (Koyee’s signature) and strawberry bingsoo are more popular in Riyadh.

Japchae: Glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, stir-fried with vegetables and meat in a sesame oil-based sauce. One of the most approachable Korean dishes for non-Korean diners.

Korean Restaurants in Riyadh by Occasion

For your first Korean restaurant visit, start at Koyee Korean BBQ for the full BBQ table-grill experience with strong visual appeal, or at HANKKI for a lower-stakes street-food introduction to Korean flavors.

For a large group (6+ people): Meatin Grills or Koyee Korean BBQ both handle large groups well with their BBQ format.

For authenticity seekers: Seoul KSA, backed by the Korean expat community.

For delivery at home: Young Jae’s for Korean fried chicken, or Koyee via HungerStation for the BBQ-adjacent menu.

For a date night: Seoul KSA or Woo Samgyup for a more intimate, quieter setting than the Zone restaurants.

For a budget meal under SAR 60: Young Jae’s delivery or HANKKI.

For late night (past midnight): Young Jae’s is open until 2am daily. Seoul KSA and Woo Samgyup run until midnight or 1am.

Neighbourhood Guide

The As Sulaymaniyah strip (home to Seoul KSA and Woo Samgyup) and The Zone in Al Mohammadiyyah (home to Koyee) have emerged as Riyadh’s two main Korean dining clusters. For a Korean food crawl, both areas are within a short drive of each other.

Practical Tips for Korean Dining in Riyadh

Arrive hungry. Korean BBQ is designed for extended, multi-course eating. The banchan alone constitutes a full spread before the main proteins arrive. Arriving hungry is not just a suggestion; it is a prerequisite.

Go in a group. Korean BBQ is inherently a communal dining experience. The more people at the table, the more variety of meat and sides you can order without over-committing to a single protein. Four to six people are ideal.

The stone pot stays hot. Dolsot Bibimbap at Koyee continues cooking at the table. Let it sit for two to three minutes before mixing to allow the rice crust to form at the bottom. That crispy rice bottom (nurungji) is one of the highlights.

Order the dessert before you think you need it. Bingsoo takes time to prepare and is best enjoyed before you are fully stuffed from the BBQ. Order it with your last round of meat.

All meat in Riyadh is halal. Pork is not served at Korean restaurants in Saudi Arabia, so the samgyupsal (pork belly) featured at Korean restaurants worldwide is replaced with beef belly, lamb belly, or similar cuts. This is now so standard that most Korean Riyadh menus have been completely redesigned without pork.

Prayer times. All restaurants in Riyadh briefly close during the five daily prayers. If you arrive at prayer time, wait at the entrance; restaurants reopen within 20 to 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Riyadh’s Korean restaurant scene in 2026 has moved well past the early days of one or two community restaurants serving the Korean expat population. The combination of K-pop and K-drama cultural influence, an adventurous young Saudi dining public, and genuine investment from restaurant operators has produced a cluster of Korean venues that serve everyone from the first-time Korean food explorer to the homesick Korean resident looking for an authentic taste of home.

Koyee leads the conversation right now for the full BBQ experience. Seoul, KSA, leads on authenticity. Young Jae leads on accessibility and delivery. And HANKKI leads on street food approachability. Between them, they cover every entry point to Korean cuisine that Riyadh has to offer.

Related Saudi Scoop guides:

• Best Indian Restaurants in Riyadh 2026 for more international dining options
• Best Breakfast Places in Riyadh 2026 for Riyadh’s morning dining scene
• Best Food Delivery Apps in Saudi Arabia 2026 for ordering Korean food at home

DISCLAIMER: Restaurant hours, menus, and availability change frequently. Saudi Scoop is not affiliated with any restaurant listed in this guide. Always verify current hours via the restaurant’s official Instagram or Google Maps listing before visiting.

Soha

I’m Soha Owais, a law graduate with an LLB (Hons), blending my legal background with a passion for storytelling. As an author and writer at Saudiscoop.com, I craft engaging narratives that connect with both local and international audiences, bringing a fresh and informed perspective to the stories that matter.