Where We Are Going Today: ‘Ovun Bakehouse’ in Riyadh

The zaatar and cheese manakeesh are baked to perfection — crisp on the outside, soft inside, and bursting with flavor. A Lebanese classic done right. (Supplied)
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Updated 27 April 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Ovun Bakehouse’ in Riyadh

  • Among the standout dishes was the homemade soujouk, which had just the right level of spice

Ovun Bakehouse in Riyadh blends Lebanese flavors with modern techniques — all without losing touch with its roots.

The space itself is warm and intimate, and everything from the menu to the ambiance is carefully curated, down to the fresh bread that is baked in house.

We started with the Ovun salad and stuffed tomato for SR38 ($10), both were vibrant and well balanced. The mama ganouj was a surprising twist — instead of traditional eggplant, it’s made with grilled cauliflower, giving the dish a lighter, earthier flavor, while keeping the smoky essence that makes it a classic.

Among the standout dishes was the homemade soujouk, which had just the right level of spice. The pesto tawook for SR72 was tender, juicy, and paired with the softest flatbread.

We also tried the zaatar and cheese manakeesh, which was baked to perfection — crisp on the outside, soft inside, and bursting with flavor.

For drinks, the mango cooler was refreshing, not too sweet, and paired well with the richness of the food.
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While some dishes are a little pricey, what makes Ovun worth visiting is not just the food, but how every dish feels like a personal invitation into Lebanese culinary tradition.

For more information, check their Instagram @myovun.sa.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Lady Finger Slow Bar in Riyadh

Updated 26 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Lady Finger Slow Bar in Riyadh

RIYADH: A comfortable little spot in Al-Mutamarat, Lady Finger Slow Bar has quickly become one of my favorite coffee spots in Riyadh. 

The interior is calm and decorated with a maroon, beige, black and white palette with little pops of color here and there.

The space is open and bright without being too harsh, and the outdoor seating underneath the columns is perfect cozy hangout space in the winter.

Their coffee is, of course, fantastic, whether you get black, V60, Americano, or any milk variation — my personal favorite is the flat white because the espresso to milk ratio is just ideal. 

Lady Finger Slow Bar in Al Mutamarat offers all the coffee classics in exceptional quality. (@ladyfinger.slowbar on Instagram)

Coconut and almond alternative milk options are also available, in addition to lactose-free, low-fat and full fat.

I would also recommend trying the coffee of the day, a daily rotation of different beans for those who love to test out new coffee flavors.

Lady Finger is also definitely famous for their desserts, with people constantly grabbing a cup of tiramisu, Oreo pudding, or banana pudding from their fridge all day as they are coming and going. The banana pudding is a crowd favorite; it is creamy with a balanced sweetness that makes it delicious.

During the day, the cafe also serves a breakfast menu complete with a selection of classic sandwiches, eggs and pancakes, or brioche for a sweet breakfast option. 

A small and cozy yet open and comfortable interior, Lady Finger is perfect for both social and work ocassions. (@ladyfinger.slowbar on Instagram)

I have to say the turkey sandwich is just OK; the fillings and the bread were great but I would have liked a different sauce that was less citrusy.

The eggs with sourdough, pancakes, and club sandwich are all solid choices for your breakfast or mid-day meal — and the tuna sandwich is taking up space in my mind so I have to try it the next time I go.

Overall, Lady Finger is a wonderful place to relax, catch up with some friends, and get some work done while enjoying a great cup of coffee and maybe a little something sweet one the side.

I also have to give it to the servers at this spot. They are very friendly and accommodating, and they only enhance the welcoming and comfortable vibe inside the cafe.

Take advantage of this beautiful weather we have been having and grab a seat outside with a cup of hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, and decadent chocolate sauce to really feel the warmth of the season.