Chef Roaya Saleh is a culinary trailblazer who swapped the fast-paced world of investment banking for the sizzling kitchens of her true passion—food. What started as a cozy extension of her own home kitchen in Bahrain has blossomed into Villa Mamas, a beloved dining destination across the GCC and Europe.
Inspired by her childhood adventures through the Middle East and India, Villa Mamas’ menu is a love letter to bold flavors and comforting nostalgia. From aromatic biryanis to velvety hummus, every dish invites you on a journey without ever leaving your seat. Often called a grander version of Chef Roaya Saleh’s own home, Villa Mamas is more than a restaurant—it’s a story told through seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Her cooking, deeply rooted in Bahraini and Khaleeji traditions, brings people together over plates rich in culture and warmth. Whether you find yourself dining in Bahrain’s Saar district, Abu Dhabi’s Muroor road, London’s Elystan street, or Riyadh’s Bujairi Terrace, every bite is a taste of her unwavering passion, resilience, and love for her heritage.
A culinary mission rooted in heritage
Chef Roaya Saleh’s journey from finance to food was driven by a mission to elevate and celebrate local cuisine.
“Witnessing how our local cuisine was often undervalued and underappreciated was a turning point for me,” she shares. Frustrated by the dominance of Western franchises, she set out to create a brand that honors regional flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Her financial background proved invaluable. “Owning a restaurant isn’t just about knowing how to cook,” she explains. “It’s about managing every aspect of the business—from accounting and HR to operations.” With strategic planning and passion, she’s redefining the culinary landscape.
Chef Roaya Saleh’s lifelong passion for food
For Chef Roaya Saleh, cooking has always been a part of her identity. “I’ve always considered myself a chef at heart, thanks to my remarkable mother, who taught me how to cook, farm, repurpose, and be independent from a very young age,” she shares. But the true turning point came when she noticed the lack of recognition for Bahraini and Khaleeji cuisine. “That realization solidified my decision to pursue this career and share our rich culinary heritage with the world.” Driven by passion and purpose, she’s bringing regional flavors to the global stage.
The Villa Mamas experience and culinary influences
Chef Roaya Saleh’s cooking style is all about simplicity, bold flavors, and cultural fusion. At Villa Mamas, she strives to create a one-of-a-kind experience from the very first bite. Her greatest inspiration? “My mother,” she says with pride. In the culinary world, she admires chefs who stay true to their roots. “I am inspired by any chef who approaches food with honesty and integrity,” she adds,a philosophy reflected in every dish she creates.
Riyadh’s evolving food scene
Chef Roaya Saleh sees Riyadh’s fast-evolving food scene as a hub of opportunity. “Riyadh’s consumers have always been unique, with a deep appreciation and connection to global cuisines,” she notes. To thrive, restaurants must balance authenticity with innovation. She also predicts a shift in dining trends. “The current trend leans toward easy-to-grab, casual yet high-quality cafes and bistros rather than fine dining,” as diners seek refined yet approachable experiences.
Balancing tradition and innovation
As international brands flood the market, Chef Saleh believes it is crucial to preserve local identity. “Riyadh is growing rapidly, and with the government’s efforts to promote key sectors such as healthcare, entertainment, sports, and trade, the city is becoming a global hub. While the influx of international brands will bring variety, it’s crucial for local restaurants to preserve and celebrate the city’s culinary identity.”
The role of dining in Riyadh’s nightlife
In Saudi Arabia,“Entertainment and generosity have always been at the heart of family life,” and as the country’s economy grows, dining has become a key part of social life. Chef Saleh sees the evolution of Riyadh’s food scene as a reflection of this change, where dining has merged with the city’s nightlife to create spaces for connection and celebration. She and her team are inspired by HRH Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s Vision 2030, with a commitment to contribute to Riyadh’s vibrant future.
Creating unforgettable dining experiences
At Villa Mamas, dining is more than just a meal. “Our motto is ‘Feed Your Senses,’” She firmly believes that dining today is about stepping out of the comfort of your home to experience something truly special. She focuses on delivering a complete, memorable experience.
Looking ahead: Expansion and innovation
Chef Saleh has big plans for the future as her brand evolves into Roaya Saleh & Sons Company, expanding into various F&B offerings.The next step includes growing Villa Mamas in Saudi Arabia, with a new location opening in Jeddah. Riyadh is also on her radar, with plans to launch two new concepts by the end of 2025.
A legacy in the making
With a relentless passion for food and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Chef Roaya Saleh is not only preserving the flavors of the past but also redefining the future of dining in the GCC. Her journey from finance to food proves that passion and perseverance can turn a dream into a culinary legacy.
For more, visit @villamamasriyadh.
