Michelin-Starred Chef Michael Mina Debuts in Saudi Arabia With the Launch of Taleed at Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah A Refined Culinary Experience Merging Mediterranean Sophistication With the Deep Flavors of Hijaz

Ain Alalam – Rashad Iskandrni

Diriyah Company and Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah has announced the long-anticipated opening of Taleed by Michael Mina, marking the debut for the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Michael Mina in Saudi Arabia. Taleed presents a groundbreaking fine-dining concept that harmonizes the rich, aromatic flavors of Hijazi cuisine with the vibrant sophistication of Mediterranean gastronomy, redefining contemporary dining in the Kingdom at the first luxury hotel to open Diriyah.

“Taleed is my love letter to the region, a celebration of culinary heritage that blends tradition with modern innovation,” said Michael Mina, Chef and Founder of The Mina Group.“This is more than a restaurant; it is an immersive experience, where the deep-rooted flavors of Hijaz meet the refined artistry of Mediterranean cuisine.”

“We are delighted to welcome Taleed by Michael Mina to Diriyah. Michael Mina is one of the most brilliant chef-entrepreneurs, renowned for celebrating and incorporating local culinary traditions into his cuisine,” said Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo. “Taleed adds another culinary masterpiece to our growing portfolio of world-class gastronomic experiences in The City of Earth. Through projects like Taleed, Diriyah Company is strengthening our commitment to transforming Diriyah into one of the world’s greatest gathering places, where history, innovation, and luxury seamlessly blend.”

A Journey of Flavors: Tradition Meets Innovation

Inspired by the depth of Saudi culinary heritage, Taleed showcases a meticulously curated menu that weaves together locally sourced ingredients with global techniques. Signature dishes include the Jeddah Red Sea Lobster Salad, featuring golden mango and saffron labneh, Hijazi Fish Fry accompanied with hassawi rice sayadeya, and Michael Mina’s Crispy Falafel topped with big eye tuna, a modern interpretation of a Middle Eastern favorite.

Elevating the experience, Taleed’s beverage menu presents a sophisticated selection of handcrafted mocktails, such as the Passionisté—a refreshing blend of Lyre’s Italian spritz, passion fruit, and ginger beer and the Cocorito, combining fresh basil and coconut water with a hint of lime. The curated non-alcoholic wine and beer collection further complements the menu’s rich and bold flavors.

To complete the journey, guests can indulge in decadent desserts including Passion Fruit Labneh Cheesecake with basbousa crumble, Brown Sugar Banana Bites with knafeh crunch, and a reimagined Dark Chocolate Cake Parfait infused with Arabic coffee caramel.

Setting the Stage for a Culinary Masterpiece

The dining space at Taleed mirrors its culinary philosophy, elegant yet grounded in local authenticity. Designed to capture the essence of Diriyah using the same 300-year-old Najdi architectural style as the hotel, the interiors seamlessly blend contemporary aesthetics with intricate Arabian details, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Guests are welcomed into an immersive atmosphere that speaks to both the history and modernity of Saudi Arabia’s cultural capital.

Accommodating up to 140 guests, Taleed is designed for intimate gatherings, corporate dining, and celebratory occasions with intimate spaces for small gatherings and vibrant outdoor rooftops. The private dining experience offers an exclusive setting where guests can embark on a personalized culinary adventure guided by Chef Mina’s culinary team.

“Taleed is a milestone in Saudi’s culinary landscape that not only elevates the dining scene in Riyadh but also strengthens the destination’s global appeal” added Michael Mina, Chef and Founder of The Mina Group “Taleed is not just about great food; it’s about storytelling through flavors, technique, and artistry. We are honored to bring this vision to life in Diriyah, a place steeped in history and now at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality renaissance.”

“We are thrilled to open Taleed at Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah and introduce Chef Michal Mina’s first restaurant to Saudi Arabia’s flourishing hospitality sector,” said Fabrice Ducry, General Manager, Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah. “We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy culinary excellence and a vibrant epicurean journey whilst immersed in the hotel’s authentic Nadji design.”

Experience the culinary masterpiece of Taleed by Michael Mina. For reservations, please call 01 429 0303 or click here.

IG: @taleeddiriyah @babsamhamdiriyah