The story
At The Canopy in Riyadh’s Hittin district, Robata draws on the centuries-old culinary traditions of the Ainu people of Hokkaido. The name itself refers to robatayaki, the Japanese “fireside cooking” technique where ingredients are grilled over an open flame. Here, that tradition is the foundation of a dining experience built around charcoal, smoke, and shared plates.
The team behind Robata—the same creators and management who brought Myazu to Riyadh—have designed a space that puts the grill at the centre of the action. Upon entering, guests are met with an enormous counter displaying an abundance of meats and beautifully presented ingredients. Cooking over solid binchotan charcoal, the kitchen produces dramatic, smoky flavours on exceptional cuts of meat, all served as robata skewers and sharing plates meant to be enjoyed together.
The restaurant pays tribute to the Japanese custom of gathering a family around a central point to share dishes. The interior is spacious, but the al fresco terrace is the standout, offering one of the best views of Riyadh. The welcome is warm, the flavours are strong, and the food stays true to its robata-inspired origins—a contemporary take on traditional Japanese grill cuisine that earned the restaurant a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026.
Robata’s menu showcases contemporary Asian fare with centuries-old techniques, making it a destination for anyone seeking authentic Japanese grill in Riyadh. Whether you come for the binchotan-fired skewers or the terrace atmosphere, the experience is rooted in the timeless simplicity of cooking over flames.
Recognition
Ambience
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