Dining in Qatar

IZU, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Doha Reflecting its multicultural society, Qatar has a huge range of cuisines to choose from. Venues range from local cafeterias to gourmet restaurants in the finest locations. Many international franchises have branches countrywide for those addicted to certain brands. There is, of course, a focus on Middle Eastern dishes with a plethora of dining options for patrons wishing to 'eat like a local'. If you love food and want to keep up to date with all the latest news and dining promotions, especially for the holy month of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, visit marhaba.qa and our social media.

Grabbing a bite around town Qatar residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining out in and around Qatar. There are numerous local and international dining outlets and cafés, many with a drive-through or takeaway service, to catch a quick bite. Juice stalls are everywhere selling fresh juices, wraps and sandwiches, while the more discerning palate can find mid-range, casual dining restaurants in malls and around town. Throughout the year, hotel restaurants offer great choice and value-for-money promotions that include happy hours, early dinner offers and more. Before the arrival of high temperatures in the summer, make sure to enjoy an al fresco meal. Looking for weekday dining options? Great deals are on offer across town. Business lunches usually run from noon until 3 pm, and include a two or three course menu for a set price. Early dinner menus are usually between 5 pm and 7 pm, and offer a set price for two or three courses. Thursday evenings, and Friday and Saturday brunches have become very popular with both locals and expatriates, and widely available in hotels and outlets around town. Prices vary with alcohol and non-alcohol packages. Brunches are moving from all-you-can-eat buffets to a three or four course à la carte option. Friday brunches are popular in Qatar with many hotels offering buffets in a family-friendly environment. Buffet food and à la carte offerings abound with tiered pricing, making it a great option for friends or family. The following pages list some of the places to eat and drink in Qatar. Dining at home and outside catering A large number of restaurants offer a takeaway service; this will often include home delivery with a nominal delivery fee. Many restaurants and hotels provide a full outside catering service for special occasions. Helpful tips Many restaurants have a family section and there are some with closed-off rooms should you require more privacy. According to Law No 10 of 2016 on the control of tobacco and its derivatives, smoking is prohibited in closed public spaces. However, some licensed restaurants may have a smoking section. The legal age for drinking alcohol in Qatar is 21. Your ID may be requested if dining at a licensed restaurant, as well as at bars and clubs. Some clubs and bars will ask you to pay a joining fee, and issue a membership card to use on return visits. On 1 January 2019, Law No 25 of 2018 on Selective Tax (Excise Tax Law) came into effect to regulate the consumption of 'health-damaging' goods, with a 100% tax on tobacco and alcohol products, energy drinks and special purpose goods, and a 50% tax on carbonated drinks. m

Qatar Clean Qatar Clean is an initiative launched by Qatar Toursim and the Ministry of Public Health to ensure maximum safety for all travellers and residents, rolled out across the hospitality sector and expanded across tourism sectors. This initiative introduces expert protocols for hygiene and cleanliness, and follows strict sterilisation and disinfection practices applied to hotels and restaurants across the country. Over 90% of hotels and restaurants are licensed by Qatar Clean. Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, indoor dining will only be available to those who have been fully vaccinated, while outdoor dining will be allowed for everyone. Your Ehteraz status will be checked at entry. If you've been vaccinated outside of Qatar, ensure to have your vaccination certificate with you.