The opening of the Tonic Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh signals a new chapter in the city’s evolving hospitality landscape – one that blends intentional design, flavour-led experiences and a shift toward lifestyle-focused luxury.
Positioned as an alcohol-free concept, the venue responds to growing demand for sophisticated, zero-proof offerings rooted in craft and cultural relevance. Led by an all-female bar team and centred on house-made tonics, the space reflects changing guest expectations and a preference for depth, authorship and purpose.
Guenter Gebhard, Regional Vice President and General Manager, shares insights into the vision, operations and future-facing priorities shaping both Tonic Bar and the broader F&B direction of the property.
Tonic Bar was conceived as more than a venue – it was developed in response to Riyadh’s appetite for concept-driven experiences.
From the outset, Gebhard and his team aimed to create a space built around the ritual of flavour. He says: “The name says it all; a bar built on house-crafted tonics, depth of flavour and cultural relevance.”
To translate this vision into design, the hotel partnered with HBA, creating a sculptural, gold-accented half-moon bar as the centrepiece. Gebhard adds: “We translated that into design through a sculptural half-moon bar, finished in gold, which anchors the room with confidence. Every design detail reflects our intent to create something focused, elegant and suited to the rhythm of the city.”
