Where We Are Going Today: Over Under in Riyadh

1 / 3
Over Under cafe is a popular spot for those seeking a relaxed coffee experience in an elegant setting. (Supplied)
2 / 3
Freshly baked croissants, cinnamon rolls and honey cakes are just among the choices, making it a sweet-lover’s paradise. (Supplied)
3 / 3
The chocolate croissant, with its crisp layers and deep flavor, feels straight out of Paris, while the cheesecake and brownies stand out as customer favorites.  (Supplied)
Short Url
Updated 10 September 2025
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: Over Under in Riyadh

RIYADH: Nestled in the heart of Via Riyadh, one of the capital’s most luxurious destinations, Over Under cafe has quickly become a popular spot for those seeking a relaxed coffee experience in an elegant setting.

With its cozy interior and plenty of seating options, it caters equally well to solo visitors looking for a quiet corner and groups seeking a casual gathering place.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, enhanced by the staff’s attentiveness — special mention goes to Kristel and May, whose friendliness and professionalism leave a lasting impression on guests.

Coffee is undeniably the star of the show. Over Under’s signature latte is smooth, rich and perfectly balanced, while its “coffee of the day” option offers something new for regular customers. The cafe provides a variety of plant-based milk alternatives.

The pastries deserve their own spotlight. The chocolate croissant, with its crisp layers and deep flavor, feels straight out of Paris, while the cheesecake and brownies stand out as customer favorites — indulgent without being overwhelming.

Freshly baked croissants, cinnamon rolls and honey cakes further round out the menu, making it a sweet-lover’s paradise.

Although the menu focuses mainly on drinks and desserts, light sandwiches or savory bites would make the experience even more complete. Still, the prices remain reasonable for the quality and setting, with an average spend of about SR140–160 ($37-43) per person. 

Over Under also adds charm with little extras, such as its ice-cream cart, perfect for a sweet treat on warmer days.

The cafe blends luxury with approachability. Whether it is a quick coffee, a leisurely dessert or just a moment of calm amid the buzz of Via Riyadh, the cafe offers a memorable experience in a refined yet cozy atmosphere.
 


Tashas’ founder lauds Kingdom’s ‘appetite for authentic dining experiences’

Updated 18 November 2025
Follow

Tashas’ founder lauds Kingdom’s ‘appetite for authentic dining experiences’

  • Saudi is ‘exciting’ location, says Natasha Sideris
  • Dining here is ‘deeply social and family-oriented’

DUBAI: With outposts in London, Dubai and South Africa, restaurant brand Tashas is making headway in Saudi Arabia with the recent opening of a branch in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District.

Founded in 2005 by South Africans Natasha Sideris and her brother Savva, the Riyadh cafe features a curated dinner menu alongside the brand’s well-known daytime offerings, as well as its largest cake display to date with over 25 options.

Jill Okkers is the culinary director. (Supplied)

Culinary director Jill Okkers said the Kingdom’s culture has played a key role in shaping the Riyadh menu. “Dining in Saudi Arabia is a deeply social and family-oriented experience, it’s about connection, generosity and shared moments,” she said.

The Riyadh cafe features a curated dinner menu alongside the brand’s well-known daytime offerings. (Supplied)

“That balance really comes down to staying true to our DNA while being open enough to let the local culture influence us in a meaningful way,” she added.

“In Saudi Arabia, we might work with local dates, spices or breads in ways that still feel distinctly Tashas — approachable, elegant and layered with nostalgia.”

Culinary director Jill Okkers said the Kingdom’s culture has played a key role in shaping the Riyadh menu. (Supplied)

Discussing the new location, CEO and founder Sideris said recently: “Since the opening of Flamingo Collection in Bujairi Terrace, alongside our partners, Janiya, we had been looking for a location for our first Tashas.”

She said that KAFD was the “most aligned in terms of an entry into the market.”

Tashas was founded in 2005 by South Africans Natasha Sideris and her brother Savva. (Supplied)

Sideris added that each branch is tailored to its setting. “We’ve always followed a simple formula: every Tashas is 75 percent the same and 25 percent unique.

“The Kingdom is such an exciting region for us; there’s an appetite for authentic dining experiences, and we see considerable potential to grow here in a meaningful way.”