Some evenings are not meant for the spotlight but for elegance defined by refined company and conversations that resonate. Such was the atmosphere at attaché Riyadh, where a handpicked circle of high-profile guests gathered for the exclusive Secret Dinner at Unstable, a hidden upscale destination in the heart of Riyadh.
Hosted by DQ Living, Dur Communities, and attaché, the evening brought together some of Riyadh’s most distinguished names to partake in fine gastronomy with cultural hospitality that sets the gold standard in the industry.
Guests were welcomed into an intimate setting where the décor struck a balance between understated sophistication and modern opulence. They were given a selection of masks they could wear through the night and a mocktail to welcome them to an ambiance that encouraged meaningful conversations while maintaining an air of leisure and discretion.
Dinner was a journey in itself. Each course by attaché’s masterful chefs was a delicate balance of global flavors and contemporary artistry. From the appetizers of Italian bruschetta and English goat cheese salad to the main courses of French corn-fed chicken and Mediterranean sea bass fillet up to the desserts of Egyptian mango pavlova and Saudi coffee tiramisu, the culinary delights set the tone of the event: refined, intentional, and unforgettable.
The dinner served as a platform for dialogue among leaders from the fields of business, diplomacy, culture, hospitality, and creative industries. Conversations flowed seamlessly, ranging from international collaborations to emerging opportunities within Riyadh’s rapidly evolving landscape.
The event underscored attaché Riyadh’s role as more than a venue; it is a hub for exclusivity, influence, and refined experiences, offering a discreet backdrop where connections can flourish. It is fast emerging as a definitive trendsetter in cultural hospitality across the Kingdom.
As the night drew to a close, the sense of community and shared vision among the attendees was palpable. It is a reminder that in Riyadh, moments of quiet luxury often shape the conversations that define the future.
In this exclusive interview with Simon Whitley, MDLBEAST Senior Operations and Culinary Director and Ian Palmer, Executive Director of Venues, discuss attachè and its growing influence in Riyadh’s culinary and entertainment landscape.
What is the importance of venues like attaché in Riyadh/Saudi Arabia?
Simon & Ian: Venues like attaché play a vital role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s new era of hospitality and culture. The Kingdom is moving through an extraordinary transformation that celebrates creativity, luxury, and social connection, and attaché sits right at that intersection. attaché isn’t just a restaurant or lounge; it is a cultural meeting point where art, music, gastronomy, and community come together. It’s with these kinds of venues that we are helping define how modern Saudi Arabia experiences lifestyle and leisure; refined, progressive, and proudly homegrown.
What is the role of attaché in Riyadh’s growing entertainment and culinary landscape? What sets it apart from other venues?
Simon & Ian: attaché was envisioned as a benchmark for elevated, experience-driven hospitality. Our role is to bridge fine dining with entertainment, creating an environment where every evening feels curated, every guest interaction feels intentional, and where culinary artistry meets cultural immersion. What sets attaché apart is our narrative approach: every space, every menu, and every sound is part of a delicately curated story. We do not just serve food or host events, we design emotions, curate the mood, and shape the journey. Our guests do not simply dine; they engage, they connect, they belong.
What core values or philosophy drive the identity of attaché?
Simon & Ian: At the heart of attaché is a commitment to refinement, authenticity, and evolution. We believe in creating spaces that are meticulously crafted yet alive with spontaneity, where design, service, and storytelling coexist.
Our philosophy revolves around three key values: excellence, connection, and innovation. Excellence without pretension: luxury that feels warm, not distant. Connection over transaction: we build relationships, not just reservations. Innovation with respect for culture: celebrating Riyadh’s identity while embracing a global mindset. These principles guide every decision, from the playlists to the plating.
What makes Riyadh’s audience unique compared to other global cities?
Simon & Ian: Riyadh’s audience is incredibly dynamic, youthful, globally aware, and deeply proud of their roots. They have sophisticated taste, yet crave authenticity and novelty in equal measure. What is most exciting is their openness; they are curious, bold, and unafraid to explore new cultural expressions, whether through avant-garde cuisine, underground music, or art-driven events. In global cities, audiences are often saturated. In Riyadh, they are energized, which is what makes this city so inspiring to create for.
How do you balance exclusivity with accessibility, making it aspirational while still welcoming?
Simon & Ian: Exclusivity for us is not about barriers; it is about belonging with intention. attaché was designed as a place where quality and creativity define access. We maintain a standard that feels aspirational through our curation, our membership model, and the consistency of our service, while ensuring our doors remain open to anyone who appreciates artistry, respect, and genuine hospitality.
It is a balance between mystique and warmth, between being a destination people aspire to experience and a community they are proud to return to. In essence, attaché is exclusive in experience, not in attitude.
