There’s something about shawarma that makes it more than just a meal. Maybe it’s the way the tender, spice-infused meat is shaved off the vertical spit, still sizzling as it lands on warm, fluffy bread. Maybe it’s the punch of garlicky toum or the tang of pickles that cuts through the richness, wrapping everything into a perfect bite. Whatever the reason, shawarma is life. 

And if you’re in Riyadh, you’re in for a treat. The capital of Saudi Arabia is home to some of the best shawarma spots in the region, from local joints with decades of history to sleek, modern eateries redefining this beloved street food. 

Whether you’re after a no-frills beef shawarma with extra tahini or a gourmet chicken shawarma dripping with new-age sauces, Riyadh’s food scene has something for every craving.

So, where do you go when the shawarma hunger strikes? Let’s explore the best shawarma spots in Riyadh with a side order of spicy rice and uncover legendary spots, hidden gems, and everything in between.

The Best Shawarma Spots in Riyadh

What makes Riyadh’s shawarma unique isn’t just the quality of the ingredients but the way each restaurant adds its own touch. Some keep it traditional, using time-honored marinades and serving it wrapped in classic pita or Arabic bread. Others get experimental, playing with sauces, types of bread, and even fusion fillings that bring a modern twist to this age-old dish.

Shawarma in Riyadh is affordable, making it a great option for any budget.

• Street-style shawarma: SAR 5-10
• Mid-range restaurants: SAR 12-20
• Upscale shawarma eateries: SAR 25+

Most places serve generous portions, so even a single wrap is often enough for a full meal. But let’s be real: you will probably want more than one.

From old-school shops to trendy new favorites, here’s where to find the best shawarma in Riyadh.

Mama Noura – The Timeless Classic

You can’t talk about shawarma in Riyadh without mentioning Mama Noura. This local legend has been serving up some of the city’s best shawarma for decades, and its loyal following speaks volumes.

What to order? Their chicken shawarma is legendary, served in a soft wrap with crisp pickles and a creamy, garlicky sauce. Pair it with their signature fresh juice, and you’ve got yourself a meal worth savoring. The beef shawarma here is just as good—deeply spiced, tender, and dripping with tahini.

• Location: Multiple branches across Riyadh
• Price Range: Budget-friendly
• Shawarma Tip: Go during off-peak hours as queues can get intense!

Shawarma House – The Perfect Balance

A slightly more modern take on traditional shawarma, Shawarma House balances authenticity with quality, making it a favorite among locals and expats alike. Their beef shawarma stands out—juicy, rich, and paired with just the right amount of tangy tahini sauce.

The setting is casual but well-kept, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a casual meal with friends.

• Location: Multiple branches
• Price Range: Mid-range
• Shawarma Tip: If you love a good crunch, ask for extra crispy bread!

Shawarma Abulaban – The Hidden Gem

For those who love discovering local secrets, Shawarma Abulaban is a must-visit. Tucked away in Riyadh’s bustling streets, this underrated spot serves up some of the juiciest shawarma in the city. Their house-made garlic sauce is the stuff of legends, and the meat is marinated to perfection.

It’s not the fanciest place, but travel bloggers say that if you take one bite, you won’t care.

• Location: Al Olaya
• Price Range: Affordable
• Shawarma Tip: Order extra toum (garlic sauce) if you prefer!

Shawarmer – The Contemporary Take

If you’re looking for a modern spin on shawarma, Shawarmer is where you should be. This contemporary chain takes everything we love about traditional shawarma and elevates it—playing with flavors, ingredients, and presentation. Expect innovative wraps, a variety of meats, and sauces that go beyond the usual. It’s a great place to take visitors who want to experience shawarma in a fresh, creative way.

• Location: Multiple outlets
• Price Range: Mid-range
• Shawarma Tip: Try their beef shawarma with pomegranate molasses for a unique flavor kick.

Shawarma Shakir – The Street Food Legend

Some of the best food is found in unassuming places, and Shawarma Shakir is proof of that. This small, no-frills spot doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the shawarma here is second to none. For many, this is one of the best shawarmas in Riyadh. Thinly sliced, seasoned just right, and wrapped in fresh, pillowy bread—every bite is a reminder of why street food holds such a special place in the hearts of food lovers.

• Location: Malaz
• Price Range: Super affordable
• Shawarma Tip: Order two. One won’t be enough.

Beef vs. Chicken Shawarma – Which One to Try?

It’s the eternal debate when it comes to beef shawarma vs. chicken shawarma. Which one reigns supreme?

• Beef shawarma is all about deep, bold flavors. Marinated with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice, it has a richness that pairs beautifully with tahini or yogurt-based sauces.
• Chicken shawarma, on the other hand, is lighter yet just as flavorful. Usually marinated with garlic, lemon, and yogurt, it has a slightly tangy taste that shines when paired with toum.

The good news? Riyadh does both exceptionally well, so the only real solution is to try them both.

Hidden Gems – Local Favorites Worth Seeking Out

If you’re willing to venture off the beaten path, Riyadh has plenty of hidden shawarma gems that offer unique flavors and experiences.

• Shawarma Fatayer Sultan: A small but mighty shop with some of the crispiest bread and juiciest fillings.
• Shawarma W Saj: This place offers a fusion of traditional shawarma with freshly baked saj bread for an unforgettable bite.
• Shawarma Abu Adnan: No-frills, just ridiculously good shawarma with a generous helping of garlic sauce.

The Best Shawarma Experience in Riyadh

Shawarma in Riyadh isn’t just about food; it’s a culinary journey. Every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and the city’s ever-evolving food scene. Whether you find yourself in a busy street stall, a cozy family-run shop, or a high-end restaurant, one thing is certain: you’re in for something special. 

So, let your appetite lead the way, embrace the thrill of the hunt, and uncover Riyadh’s best-kept secrets one bite at a time.

FAQs 

What makes Riyadh’s shawarma unique compared to other places?
Riyadh’s shawarma is a fusion of tradition and innovation with slow-roasted meats infused with Middle Eastern spices, paired with rich garlic sauce, tahini, or spicy shatta, all wrapped in fresh saj or samoon bread. The city’s diverse culinary scene means you’ll find everything from classic street-style shawarma to gourmet, modern twists.

Where can I find the best beef shawarma in Riyadh?
For top-tier beef shawarma, check out Shawarma House for its perfectly spiced cuts, Mama Noura for an old-school favorite, or Tamees & Shawarma for a smoky, charcoal-grilled twist. Each spot brings a unique flavor to this beloved dish.

What’s the price range for shawarma in Riyadh?
Shawarma in Riyadh caters to all budgets. A classic street shawarma costs around 5-10 SAR, while premium gourmet options at upscale restaurants can range between 20-40 SAR, depending on size, fillings, and extras.

Are there any must-try hidden gem shawarma spots in Riyadh?
Locals rave about Shawarmero for its bold, tangy flavors, Abu Zaid for a traditional Saudi take on shawarma, and Sufra Al Jazeera for massive, flavor-packed wraps. These under-the-radar spots deliver some of Riyadh’s most authentic shawarma experiences.