NOMAS and Art of Heritage Host an Immersive Cultural Dining Evening Celebrating Saudi Craftsmanship

Situated within the sophisticated Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, NOMAS introduces gastronomes to a new era of refined Saudi dining. Deepening this journey, the restaurant has launched a cultural-meets-culinary experience in collaboration with Art of Heritage, bringing the stories of the Kingdom to life. As guests move through the space, they are surrounded by intricate embroidery, pottery, palm weaving, and traditional dress panels, each harmonising with a menu of elevated Saudi flavours crafted to honour the Kingdom’s heritage. 

Since its official opening in September, NOMAS has already made its mark on Riyadh’s culinary landscape. The intimate 35-seat restaurant is defined by a deep passion for Saudi hospitality, where every piece of décor, carefully presented dish, and subtle gesture tells a story. Rooted in authenticity, NOMAS strives to spotlight the richness of the region through the finest locally sourced produce and partnerships with Saudi artists, creating an experience that feels both timeless and entirely new.  

Sharing NOMAS’s strong connection to Saudi traditions, Art of Heritage was founded over 25 years ago as the Heritage Centre of the Al Nahda Philanthropic Society. Since then, it has evolved into a non-profit organisation focused on the preservation and conservation of the Kingdom’s cultural DNA. Renowned for preserving cultural identity by reinterpreting traditional elements into high-quality fashion lines and products, Art of Heritage keeps the past alive through a modern form. 

Beginning the nearly two week-long showcase, the Saudi fine dining restaurant held a private gathering on November 27th, giving guests a sneak peek at this unique journey. The event began with welcome drinks and a speech from the CEO of Art of Heritage, HRH Princess Nourah Bint Mohammed Al Faisal, followed by a live cooking demonstration by Head Chef Ahad Alghamdi, who explained the narrative behind each creation. 

Guests enjoyed a special menu that incorporated signature elements from Nomas’ Saudi fine dining experience.  The menu included thoughtful creations such as the Wasal Al Thamar served with Puff Mandini, exuding the softness and grace of local tradition. The main course puts a contemporary twist on Najdi cooking with succulent, slow-cooked beef cheek and Madini rice, while dessert offers a refined pairing of the Frame of Date Textures and an Art of Heritage Macaron, served on fine ceramic with Arabic coffee. 

Complementing the culinary experience, is an immersive display curated by Art of Heritage. Guests are greeted by six hand-painted and hand-embroidered panels at the restaurant entrance, each reflecting a different Saudi craft and setting the tone for the journey ahead. Inside, the atmosphere unfolds through earthy clay vases filled with flowers on the central table, shelves lined with rustic pottery painted with geometric shapes, artisanal frames woven with palm patterns and delicate embroidery, and sofas dressed in hand-stitched cushions, creating an ambience shaped by artistry and quiet cultural beauty. 

Ahad Alghamdi, Head Chef of NOMAS, shared, ‘At NOMAS, the experience lives in the details, through subtle nods to history, traditional ingredients, and rituals that transform the culinary journey into one cohesive narrative. Partnering with Art of Heritage helps us bring local stories, ingredients, and traditions to the forefront, honouring history while embracing the future of Saudi fine dining.’ 

H.H, Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud of Art of Heritage, continued, ‘At Art of Heritage, we take pride in designing and producing pieces that reflect the essence of Saudi culture and celebrate hospitality in its most authentic form. Our participation this evening with Nomas’ Restaurant highlighted this shared passion, as we showcased a selection of handcrafted pieces created with pride by Saudi artisans. We are equally honoured to extend our admiration to Chef Ahd Al-Ghamdi, whose exceptional culinary presentation infused Saudi flavours with a refined global touch.’ 

Together, NOMAS and Art of Heritage have created a rare moment where flavour, artistry, and heritage collide. Immerse yourself in this multi-sensory journey and uncover generations of culinary traditions and craftsmanship that make up Saudi Arabia’s vibrant cultural identity. With limited availability, secure your table now to be part of the story. 

When: Art of Heritage pop-up will be available from now till December 15th, between 7pm and 11pm. 

For bookings and more information, please call +966 50 325 9990 or click here.