Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre Introduces Thurya, A Contemporary Lebanese Dining Destination

Ain Alalam – Rashad Iskandrni

12 May 2026 – Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre proudly unveils Thurya, its signature Lebanese dining destination, now welcoming guests to embark on a radiant journey of heritage, flavour, and contemporary elegance. Introducing a refined interpretation of Lebanese dining in the heart of Riyadh, Thurya blends rich culinary traditions with contemporary sophistication, offering guests an elevated social dining experience inspired by culture, generosity, and timeless hospitality.

Named after the Arabic word for “star,” Thurya embodies a dedication to culinary artistry and refined hospitality. Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of Lebanese cuisine, the restaurant harmonizes authentic regional flavors with elegant presentation and Sofitel’s signature French touch creating an experience that feels both timeless and distinctly modern.

“With Thurya, we wanted to create more than a restaurant, we envisioned a dining destination that celebrates the richness of Lebanese culture through a contemporary and elevated lens,” said Fadeel G. Wehbe, Managing Director of Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre. “From the culinary storytelling to the atmosphere and hospitality experience, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to offer guests a refined yet welcoming space that reflects both regional authenticity and Sofitel’s signature French art de vivre.”

At Thurya, every element is thoughtfully curated to reflect the warmth of shared moments and the richness of cultural storytelling. The menu is a vibrant celebration of Lebanese cuisine, beginning with an abundant selection of traditional cold and hot mezzehs. From silky, perfectly balanced hummus and comforting, aromatic soups to smoky, walnut-rich mohammara and an array of seasonal specialties, each dish is crafted to awaken the palate and invite sharing.

Signature mezzeh creations elevate the experience further, including the Josper Zahra Hummus where smoked cauliflower lends a deep, charred complexity to the classic, alongside an indulgent octopus hummus pairing tender flame-kissed octopus with a velvety base. Freshly made saj, baked to order, emerges warm and fragrant from the oven, offering a soft, pillowy canvas for a variety of fillings and flavors.

At the heart of the menu, the Josper Flame Grill delivers a bold expression of Lebanese cooking. Expertly grilled meats and succulent shrimp are infused with a delicate smokiness, balancing char and tenderness to perfection. Complementing these are beloved “tabkhat” dishes, including koussa and warak enab, prepared with depth of flavour and authenticity, alongside seafood siyadiyeh—fragrant rice layered with perfectly cooked fish and caramelized onions inspired by coastal culinary traditions.

To conclude, the dessert selection offers a refined take on regional favorites. Golden Umm Ali is served warm and delicately spiced, while the Mouhalibiyeh Brûlé reimagines the classic milk pudding with a caramelized finish, blending creamy textures with a delicate crispness. Paired with crafted mocktails, infused waters and signature beverages, every course is designed to create a truly memorable and immersive dining experience.

The design of the space complements the culinary journey. A light-filled, airy setting blends refined opulence with contemporary sophistication, where jewel-toned greens are paired with sleek metallic accents. Arabic-inspired lighting, intricate textures, and carefully curated table settings create an ambiance that is both inviting and elevated, while subtle artistic details bring depth and character to the environment.

Ideal for intimate dinners, business lunches and social gatherings alike, Thurya offers a versatile setting accommodating up to 140 guests. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the restaurant invites diners to discover a refined experience where heritage and modernity come together in the heart of Riyadh.

With the launch of Thurya, Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre continues to elevate its culinary portfolio, introducing distinctive dining concepts that blend cultural authenticity with the brand’s celebrated French art de vivre.

For bookings, please contact: +966 11 254 3010

Email: Sofitel.riyadh.sc@sofitel.com

Website: https://sofitel.accor.com/en/hotels/9029/R002.restaurant.html

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofitelriyadh/

NOTE TO EDITOR

ABOUT SOFITEL RIYADH HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTRE

Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre stands as one of the finest hotels in Riyadh, a sanctuary of elegance and cultural richness uniquely connected to King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Mosque. From opulent suites to shimmering indoor pools and soothing spa treatments, every wish is met with impeccable service. Indulge in fine cuisine at three exceptional restaurants and unwind in the Sofitel Club. The state-of-the-art convention centre features 17 flexible meeting rooms, ideal for any occasion.

With 388 sophisticated rooms and suites, this stunning 5-star hotel is only 35 minutes by taxi from King Khalid International Airport. A private airport transfer is available, ensuring a perfectly refreshing arrival. Whether visiting for business or leisure, Riyadh offers an array of exciting discoveries. The iconic Kingdom Centre Tower and Kingdom Centre Mall are just five minutes by taxi, while the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diriyah is located 17 km away.

Located in the prestigious Ar Rahmaniyyah neighbourhood, the hotel is close to Riyadh’s premium shopping and dining destinations. Easily accessible by car and well connected to major highways and transportation routes, Sofitel Riyadh provides an ideal base to explore the capital.

ABOUT SOFITEL

A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury with a French zest. A seamless blend of the richness of each local culture and the French joie de vivre, the brand delights travelers who appreciate delicacy and subtle refinement, offering them heartfelt and authentic service. At Sofitel, beauty is in the details: life’s simple pleasures such as gastronomy and sleep are art forms for an incomparable experience.

Sofitel now boasts more than 120 hotels, all elegant and unique, in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Among its most remarkable properties: Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opera, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma and Sofitel Ambassador Seoul. The brand also offers a selection of heritage luxury hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner, renowned for their timeless elegance and fascinating history, such as Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Sofitel is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,700 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.