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Dining in Qatar e-guide contents
• Dining in Qatar
• Happy Hour
• Places to Dine: Hotels, Clubs and Bars, Around Town, Fast Food and Healthy Options
• Feature: MICHELIN Guide Arrives in Qatar
• Food Reviews
• Meet Rachel Morris
• Meet the Chef: Mohammed Ashfaque Qureshi
• Glossary of Middle Western Cuisine
• Who’s Who in the Kitchen
• Must-Try Qatari Dishes
Time to Dine
If you’re looking to explore flavours and new tastes then you’re in the right place. The dining out experience in Qatar brings people together providing a variety of options to suit all, with traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, popular International dishes, refined gourmet dining, or family‑friendly buffets.
Doha’s luxury hotels offer a range of formal and casual venues, including Michelin‑starred chef experiences, which are perfect for enjoying an evening of fine dining and conversation.
Around town there are a plethora of dining choices from spicy Indian thalis and vibrant organic dishes, to fresh sushi platters and perfectly grilled meats. Exciting food and beverage concepts continue to be introduced to Qatar as new malls open, and existing venues expand.
With a wide choice, great food and unique ambience, Qatar’s restaurants, eateries and cafés provide a menu for every occasion. As an added bonus, the beautiful Corniche awaits you to walk off any unwanted additions to your waist!
Sel & Miel, authentic French cuisine.
Reminiscent of the Parisian lifestyle, Sel & Miel delivers delicious French fare in an intimate setting where art brings delight to diners indoor and an authentic brasserie experience at the terrace.
For more information, visit www.selmieldoha.com or call +974 5576 4278.
I MEET THE CREATIVE Rachel Morris A Leading Food Writer
f you’ve been in Qatar for a long time and familiar with the county’s food and hospitality industry, Rachel Morris is a name you have heard of.
Rachel Ann Morris is an Australian food and travel blogger, who has called Doha, Qatar home since 2007. Her popular blog Life on the Wedge lifeonthewedge.net is popular guide for where to eat and drink in Qatar, due to her ardent pursuit of the best dining experiences in the country and abroad. Her successful food and travel blogging has led her to meet, interview and dine with celebrity and Michelin star chefs such as Nobu Matsuhisa, Dani Garcia, Richard Sandoval, Gordon Ramsay and Wolfgang Puck, and other big names in the culinary world. She has also been named as one of Visit Qatar’s curators, offering visitors and residents personal recommendations to the country’s best spots.
A jack of all trades, Rachel is a senior corporate communications and PR specialist, editor, content advisor and strategist. Holding a bachelor’s degree of Political Science and Government from the University of Sydney, Rachel has more than 25 years experience in journalism, public relations, social media, digital and communications in Australia and the Middle East, and has been Managing Editor of The Peninsula newspaper in Qatar. An avid traveller herself, she writers for Forbes Travel Guide, Condé Nast Traveler, the BBC and other platforms about Qatar and her other travels.
A close friend of Marhaba, Rachel Morris gives us a glimpse into the many hats she wears and her success.
Tell us about what brought you to Qatar, and how do you reflect on your life in Qatar. Like many people I came to Qatar for a job, planning on staying for a couple of years then seeing what happened. That was in 2007 and I’m still here! This has become home to me now.
Qatar has afforded me so many opportunities and it’s opened a lot of new avenues I might not have explored if I had stayed in Australia.
What inspired Life on the Wedge? What keeps you inspired to run the blog?
I’ve written professionally in some form or other since I started working in my 20s, but I was looking for another creative avenue for my writing. Back in the early 2010s, blogging was just taking off and to be
honest, I tried a couple of different blogging styles before I realised that food was the way to go. The blog started as 365 cheeses in 365 days and kind of morphed from there.
You have worn many hats throughout your years in Qatar, from journalist to food blogger to a PR specialist. What do/have you enjoyed the most and/ or most passionate about?
At the end of the day, it’s really only one hat that I wear. I am a storyteller – be that in my professional life or as a blogger/writer – and that’s what drives me. Telling stories, engaging people and maybe, if I’m lucky, encouraging them to take action, try something new, make a change.
How do you manage to wear so many hats? Prioritising, compartmentalising and having a great support network!
It sounds very glib but time management is very important – essentially knowing what to give your time and energy to before other demands on your time. I’m also a great believer in just saying no. I think many in the creative space believe that if we turn down an opportunity, others won’t follow. But I’ve found this isn’t the case – quality is more important than quantity.
Equally, having people around you who not only support what you do but understand it is very important.
How has your background in journalism helped you be successful in what you do today – whether as a food writer or a public relations specialist?
Journalism engendered in me one key trait – news sense. I think my training as a journalist enables me to craft a story, cut through the noise, and highlight the most important/compelling information.
Whether that be for a press release, a long form feature or a review of a new restaurant.
This is increasingly important in the social media age – where there is some much ‘content’ and visual and world salad that you just need to give people the information they need.
You are one of the most notable names in Qatar’s food and hospitality industry. In your eyes, how has the industry developed throughout the years? When I moved to Qatar in 2007 there was a handful of fairly nondescript higher end restaurants in hotels; today the dining scene is the most diverse and vibrant it has ever been with cuisines ranging from Peruvian to Cuban to Greek, Vietnamese, Ghanaian and even Burmese. I’m also impressed about how the more ‘pocket friendly’ segment of the market is flourishing. Like many in the food industry I’m looking forward to the announcement of the inaugural Michelin Guide for Qatar later this year – this will really set a benchmark and I think we will see a lot of change and improvement in 2025.
In addition to food blogging, you also dabble in travel and tourism blogging. You’ve been named as one of Visit Qatar’s curators, offering visitors and residents recommendations for the country’s best spots. What are the top reasons you tell people to visit Qatar, whether short-term or long-term?
I always say that Qatar is probably one of the most surprising destinations anyone can visit. It’s peaceful, diverse, offers a range of activities from the desert to the sea and everything in between. I always encourage people to yes, visit the ‘big ticket items’ like Souq Waqif, but also try the museums or head to the desert.
And of course, I’m always keen to highlight the fact that Qatar has an eclectic, surprising and international food scene.
What’s your secret to success? Finding my niche was the key.
Around two years ago I deliberately stepped off from the ‘influencer’ roundabout, which seems to be more about getting likes on viral videos/egos and not actually having a point of view.
I decided to go back to basics and focus on my writing, and this has really been the best decision – I launched my weekly newsletter and other channels to connect; found more brands and entities engaging with me and also found a new, appreciative audience.
I would also say consistency is very important and yet so underrated. And, you are nothing without your support network – the people you surround yourself with, who you can tap for inspiration or just someone to listen to you.
What would you say are some of the highlights of your career thus far?
I’ve had a few highlights and personal milestones. Definitely editing a newspaper (which was my first job in Qatar) was a highlight in many ways, as was being an author and co-author of several books.
I think being asked to be a Visit Qatar curator was significant for me – Qatar is my adopted home and being tapped for my knowledge of the food scene in the country is an incredible honour.
For more information, check out Rachel’s social media channels: Instagram @rachelannmorris71, Twitter @rachelannmorris, and Linkedin linkedin.com/in/ rachelmorris1, or visit her blog lifeonthewedge.net
Rachel Morris with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa
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MICHELIN Guide Arrives in Qatar
By Ola Diab and Terry Sutcliffe
MICHELIN Guide announces its arrival in Doha, Qatar for the upcoming 2025 selection guide.
In June 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced that it is expanding its renowned culinary reviews to Doha, Qatar. The prestigious Guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring Doha in preparation for selecting the city's most outstanding dining venues.
The selection will showcase the best of Doha’s dining scene and spotlight its talented chefs and teams, embracing their passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary traditions. Doha is the third city in the Middle East with soon-to-be published MICHELIN Guides, following Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
'These past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on Doha’s culinary evolution and continue to relish the wonderful diversity that this fast-paced city has to offer,' said the International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, Gwendal Poullennec. 'From the continually changing skyline of gravity-defying hotels to the rich array of restaurants representing cuisines from all continents, they have comprehensively reviewed the nation’s top eateries. Whether enjoying coffee on the Corniche, wandering around The Pearl Island, having lunch by the waterside in Lusail, or dining after a mesmerising visit to the Museum of Islamic Art or in the dynamic, regenerated Msheireb Downtown Doha, our inspectors have truly experienced it all.
'Middle Eastern, Japanese, Peruvian, or fused Nikkei style, Indian and Chinese to name a few, the choice here is endless and doubtlessly certain to appeal
to the avid global gastronomic traveller looking for a memorable culinary experience,' Poullennec added.
The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide in Doha is supported by Qatar Tourism (QT). Its Chairman, HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, said, 'The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide in Doha underscores Qatar’s standing as a rapidly emerging global culinary destination. It will enable travellers to better explore the breadth of our culinary and hospitality options, helping to ensure that they have well-rounded stays with memorable experiences. This inclusion is also a tribute to the strong cadre of culinary talent that Doha has attracted, who see in our capital and its ambitions a commitment to luxury and quality, which enables their professional creativity and advancement.'
The
MICHELIN
Guide Methodology
The selection will follow MICHELIN’s historic method based on five universal criteria to ensure consistency between each selection, including:
• The quality of the ingredients.
• The mastery of cooking techniques.
• The harmony of flavours.
• The personality of the cuisine.
• The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole.
The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Selection
The MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, which are awarded to special restaurants within its full selection. The most famous distinctions are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars awarded to the restaurant offering the best culinary experiences.
One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for 'high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,' two MICHELIN Stars for 'excellent cooking that is worth a detour,' and three MICHELIN Stars for 'exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.'
Alongside the coveted Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at a moderate price.
The full restaurant selection of the MICHELIN Guide Doha 2025 will be unveiled at a special event to be held in the last quarter of 2024. It will be available exclusively in digital format on all the Guide's interfaces: website, mobile applications, and social networks. It will join the global MICHELIN Guide restaurant and hotel selections to be found for free on its digital platforms.
The history of the MICHELIN Star rating system
As many true food lovers and gourmets will know, the MICHELIN Star rating system is a prestigious and internationally recognised guide for ranking fine dining establishments. But how did it start and who were the ‘inventors’ of this system?
The MICHELIN Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tyre company to support the growth of automobile mobility. The story starts with the invention and development of internal combustion engines and the first practical motorcars. This was mainly in Germany (notably with Herren Benz, Daimler and Maybach) and in France similarly with Monsieur Citroën and the two brothers André and Edouard Michelin, of the French, now global, tyre company. All these pioneers were great visionaries and engineers, as were many also at work in Italy, the UK and the US, but Citroën and Michelin (who later bought out Citroën) seemed to have a flair for publicity and marketing. For example, Citroën had its name hugely displayed on the Eiffel Tower, visible to literally everybody in Paris for over 10 years during the 1920s and 30s, and MICHELIN set to work on multiple projects with the aim of encouraging the wider use of this new means of transport.
One of the main impediments to the widespread adoption of petrol cars was range anxiety (there weren’t many petrol stations at the time and horses could go on forever, catching a snack anytime on the roadside!). So, MICHELIN published maps and travel guides and also their Guide to restaurants, all in a bid to get people to use their
cars more and also of course to wear out their tyres.
How important are Michelin Stars?
No doubt, restaurants that receive a MICHELIN Star rating are filled with pride, gain prestige, and usually get an increase in exposure and business. In today’s culinary industry, there’s a reverence for the iconic MICHELIN Star rating system. Some restaurateurs go so far as to say it’s the only rating that matters because it’s authentic since MICHELIN inspectors are among the few who remain completely anonymous when reviewing a restaurant.
While the MICHELIN Guide awards its stars to restaurants rather than individual chefs, and there are no Michelin-starred restaurants yet in Qatar because MICHELIN has only now started to cover the Gulf states, there are many executive chefs operating in Doha who have created and run MICHELIN-starred restaurants in other countries. Indeed there are chefs in Qatar whose restaurants have the highest tally of MICHELIN Stars of any living chef in the world. See Dining with Celebrity Chefs on marhaba.qa
There are other food/restaurant review systems in different countries which award stars (usually from 1 to 5) but everyone seems to defer to the professionalism of the MICHELIN system. It operates in about 30 countries in the world, mainly in Europe, the US and Japan. It has recently began to operate in Asia and the Middle East.
And MICHELIN itself is not standing still; for example, the Bib Gourmand, named after Bibendum or Bib, commonly known as the ‘Michelin Man’, the official mascot of the Michelin tyre company, is an award for excellent restaurants (and hotels), which charge reasonable prices. Bibendum originates from the slogan Nunc est bibendum, meaning "Now is the time to drink", and is taken from Horace's Odes. And the new MICHELIN Green Star is awarded to restaurants leading the way in sustainable practices and eco-friendly commitments. m
Timeless St. Regis Rituals
The Pearl Afternoon Tea
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EN FAMiLiA
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Who's Who in the Kitchen
By Terry Sutcliffe
Qatar has many fine restaurants, and in many of the fine hotels, residents and visitors of Qatar can experience and enjoy some of the finest dining, or cuisine, on par with the best in the world. Whenever you visit a restaurant in a leading hotel, you will probably be amazed by the extent and variety of food on offer – dishes from different parts of the world, different types of food like salads, sweets, fish, meat, breads, soups, pastries, and by the sheer number of skilled staff needed to run the restaurant and its kitchen.
It’s very obvious that there is an abundance of talent, skill and expertise in these restaurants and during the meal you see the staff constantly active, on the move replenishing dishes in the buffet, unfailingly empathetic helping diners understand what is on offer in all aspects of their meal.
So it makes one think: how are these kitchens organised? What is the secret where a kitchen works efficiently and produces consistently good dishes? The answer is the kitchen brigade.
The kitchen brigadeor La Brigade de Cuisinse system was created in the 19th century by GeorgesAuguste Escoffier, the French chef and restaurateur responsible for revolutionising and modernising French cuisine. Escoffier’s special touch was applying French army principles to the kitchen, based on his experience working as a chef in the French military.
In the kitchen brigade, a military-like hierarchy creates a line of command. Each team member has a specific role that they fulfil with utmost precision. The system creates order and maximises productivity, and makes the kitchen run like a welloiled machine.
The full brigade consists of more than 20 kitchen jobs including an executive chef, sous chef, and multiple types of chefs de partie (line cooks) who oversee particular stations. Examples of line cooks are the potager, who oversees the soups, and the pâtissier, who is in charge of all the different pastries. Line cooks also man stations and contribute to different dishes, rather than creating complete dishes on their own from start to finish.
This system ensures that line cooks perfect the techniques that they focus on, which maximises efficiency and consistency. The brigade system also creates an incentive for staff members to commit to the team and to see a clear path for future development and promotion within the company.
The kitchen brigade system has its roots in fine dining. Today, many casual dining restaurants require fewer different staff but the brigade still provides the framework for the organisation and its legacy can be found even in fast food kitchens which have stations for frying, grilling and assembling dishes, and they hire line cooks to work these stations and increase efficiency.
The Organisation of the Kitchen Brigade Like a general is the head of the army, or a manager is the team leader of a company, an executive chef is the head of the kitchen in a restaurant. According to the kitchen brigade system, the chef de cuisine is second-in-command to the executive chef. Nowadays, restaurants usually have an executive chef or a chef de cuisine, rather than both positions. Below the chef de cuisine is the sous chef de cuisine (colloquially known as the sous chef). Below the sous chef are the line cooks, or chefs de partie, who are in charge of various stations in the kitchen. Some stations may have several types of chefs working at them. For example, the pastry team may consist of a pâtissier (pastry chef), boulanger (baker), and glacier (someone who specialises in making frozen desserts).
Here’s a closer look at some of the most common kitchen jobs that are still in use today:
Chef Exécutif (Executive Chef)
The executive chef is like the back-of-house CEO. This role is less about day-to-day kitchen operations and more about strategic business decisions, like creating the restaurant concept and menus.
Chef de Cuisine (Head Chef)
The chef de cuisine is the manager of the kitchen who also collaborates with the restaurant’s general manager. Unlike the executive chef, the chef de cuisine is involved in day-to-day kitchen operations. He is the team leader, responsible for staff management and recruitment, and crucially for order and efficiency in the kitchen. The chef de cuisine also oversees administrative tasks, like food safety, purchasing and inventory management.
Sous Chef
The sous chef de cuisine is commonly called the “sous chef" in English. Sous means “under” in French, so the title explains that this role is the chef de cuisine‘s deputy. The sous chef helps oversee the line cooks and assists with management duties. This position steps in for the chef de cuisine when needed.
Chef de Partie (Line Cook)
Stations are a signature of the brigade system. The full brigade has stations for every type of food preparation needed in the kitchen. The system has several types of chefs de partie, also known as line cooks, that oversee each station in the brigade system. Their specific duties, and titles, depend on their stations. For example, a saucier, is in charge of creating all of the restaurant’s sauces, while a friturier is responsible for fried items.
Commis Chef (Junior Chef)
In the traditional brigade system, line cooks have junior chefs working with them. Junior chefs help execute orders at the stations to which they’re assigned. So the commis chef to the poissonnier would help their boss prepare fish dishes, while the commis chef to the saucier would help make sauces.
Aboyeur (waiter/waiteress)
The aboyeur, better known as waiter or waitress, are the only customer-facing members of the kitchen brigade. They serve customers their dishes and anything else they order. If a customer has a problem with their food, it is the role of the waiter or waitress to report this to the kitchen. They are the link between the dining room and the kitchen, relaying orders, conducting both speed, coordination, and, when done well, preventing chaos.
Communard
The communard is responsible for preparing “family meal”, which is the meal served to the restaurant staff before service begins. Sometimes, it is assigned on a rotational basis to each chef and cook to allow for experimentation. It can also be a position where this is the cook's sole exclusive daily task. The communard reports directly to the chef de cuisine (head chef).
Plongeur (Dishwasher)
The plongeur or dishwasher is a critical kitchen job in the brigade system. This position cleans crockery and cutlery, and prepares them for another round of service by drying and organising them. The plongeur is also responsible for their maintenance.
Other kitchen jobs:
•Boucher (Butcher)
•Boulanger (Baker)
•Entremétier (Entrée preparer/manager)
•Friturier (Fry Cook)
•Garde Manger (Pantry Chef)
•Patisseur (Pastry Chef)
•Poissonier (Fish Cook)
•Potager (Soup Cook)
•Rotisseur (Roast Chef)
•Saucier (Sauté Chef)
Variations of the brigade system can be found in kitchens worldwide, adapted to suit the needs of different culinary traditions and establishments. Modern kitchens may also have more flexible structures, but the principles of teamwork, hierarchy, and specialisation remain essential for a well-functioning kitchen. m
MEET THE CHEF
Chef Mohammed Ashfaque Qureshi
Qureshi
Bukhara
Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha
One of India’s landmark dining destinations comes to Qatar. The romance of the rugged northwest frontier of India comes alive at Qureshi Bukhara at Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha.
The Qureshi name has been synonymous with good eating for over 200 years and traces its lineage to legendary chefs and kitchens of the the years they have developed, innovated, even researched manuscripts and almost single handedly brought alive once again, age-old recipes and styles like the celebrated ‘Tandoor’ and ‘Dum’ styles of cooking.
The chef of Qureshi Bukhara is the talented Mohammed Ashfaque Quresh, a chef turned foodie and he has had the distinction of having the doyen of Indian food. He has researched the finer nuances of food. He is currently a Managing Director with Grande Cuisines of India. The company has been conceptualised by him, and provided consultancy and franchise of their brand nationally and Internationally.
Marhaba interviews Chef Mohammed Ashfaque Quresh about Qureshi Bukhara’s debut in Qatar.
Welcome to Qatar! Tell us why you chose Qatar as the next step in your culinary career. It’s great to be in Qatar. After working in the UAE and Oman, Qatar was a logical choice because of its diverse population, including many locals, Indians, and Europeans who love Indian cuisine. This will give me a chance to share my passion for cooking with a wider audience and learn from the rich culinary culture here.
What intrigued Qureshi Bukhara to join Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha?
The main reason was the visionary approach of the Al Majed group’s Chairman, which made the collaboration between Qureshi Bukhara and Dusit an exciting opportunity.
We are thrilled to be in Doha and have received a warm welcome. We look forward to expanding our presence and plan to open another Qureshi brand soon to share our passion for authentic Indian cuisine with even more people.
What unique or special culinary dishes should people expect at Qureshi Bukhara?
We offer a curated menu where every dish is a signature creation. You can expect exceptional Kebabs, Curries, and Biryanis. Some must-try dishes include Raan Sikandari, Dal Qureshi, Burrah Kebab, Tandoori Chicken, Family Naan, and our special Biryanis.
Indian cuisine has become universal. How does Qureshi Bukhara preserve the authenticity of the Indian cuisine yet keep it contemporary?
At Qureshi Bukhara, we are deeply rooted in the rich legacy of the Qureshi family, celebrating 45 years of culinary excellence this year. Our strength lies in our commitment to authenticity and originality. We meticulously follow our ageold family recipes, use original spices, and select high-quality meats and vegetables to ensure genuine flavors. While we stay true to these traditions, we also embrace contemporary presentation and culinary techniques to keep our dishes fresh and appealing for today’s diners.
Qureshi Bukhara is open Tuesday to Sunday 1 pm – 11 pm.
For more information or reservations, call 4004 4052, WhatsApp 3070 1295, or email dining.dusitdoha@dusit.com
Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha
Discover a unique lifestyle experience at Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha, home to luxury suites nestled in West Bay amidst Doha’s business district.
Luxury Accommodations
The hotel has 192 suites — ranging from 2- to 6-bedroom — perfectly designed for families and groups looking for luxury accommodations. All suites are thoughtfully appointed with full range of amenities, and styled with carefully selected accents, creating a relaxing haven in the centre of vibrant Doha.
Unrivaled Dining
The 5-star Doha hotel also homes culinary hot spots including the globally acclaimed Indian restaurant Qureshi Bukhara, Churchill cigar lounge, and Tropicana 360, the most buzzing rooftop restaurant and bar in Doha.
Qatar residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining out. There are numerous local and international restaurants, cafés, cafeterias and other dining outlets across the country.
Hotel dining is very popular. Throughout the year, hotel restaurants offer great choice and value-formoney promotions that include happy hours, early dinner offers and more. Buffet food and à la carte offerings abound with tiered pricing.
For weekday dining options, a 'business' lunch usually runs from noon until 3 pm, and includes a two or three course menu for a set price. Thursday evenings, and Friday and Saturday brunches are very popular, and are widely available in hotels and outlets around town. Usually on Fridays and/or Saturdays, brunches can be anything from all-you-can-eat buffets to a multiple course à la carte option, offering food in a family-friendly environment, and may include live music and other forms of entertainment. Prices vary with alcohol and non-alcohol packages.
The more discerning palate can find mid-range, casual dining restaurants in malls and around the country. Food trucks and night markets such as the Duhail Night Market, Katara's Tasty Street, Aspire's Downtown Doha, Lusail's Marina Food Arena, District One in Legtaifiya and more are widespread selling juices, coffee, tea, sandwiches, sweets and other quick bites.
Dining at home and outside catering
A large number of restaurants offer a takeaway service; this will often include home delivery for free or a nominal fee. There are also many food delivery apps in Qatar such as Talabat, Snoonu, Rafeeq, Deliveroo and more that deliver food from restaurants and hotels as well as groceries and other home necessities. Some restaurants and hotels provide catering services for special
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. However, for patrons wishing to 'eat like a local', there's a plethora of options for Middle Eastern dining.
If you love food and want to keep up to date with all the latest news, food reviews and dining promotions, especially for holidays such as Eid, National Day, Christmas and the New Year, visit marhaba.qa and our social media. Also, see our e-guides Dining & Restaurants in Qatar and Events and Functions
occasions. See our Events and Functions e-guide for more information.
The following pages in this section list some of the places to eat and drink in Qatar.
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 or passport 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 Tourism (QT) and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) 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. qatartourism.com/en/ licensing-e-services/qatar-clean
Dining in Qatar
Dining at Souq Waqif
Must-Try Qatari Dishes
By Ola Diab
Qatar is home to a wide variety of cuisines – Chinese, Thai, Lebanese, Turkish, Italian, French, American – you name it. But you cannot dine in Qatar without trying Qatari cuisine at the country's traditional and modern local restaurants across the country.
Qatari cuisine shares many traditional foods of the Middle East and North African (MENA) region, especially the Gulf region. Their food consists of meat, grain, and dairy as well as vegetables, with many stew-like and rice dishes often cooked in a single pot. Traditional dishes include harees, madrooba, machbous and saloona as well as sweet dishes such as balaleet and luqaimat
Machbous
Harees
Common across the Arab region, from the Levant to the Arabian Gulf, harees or harissa is a popular porridge-like dish of boiled, cracked, or coarsely-ground wheat, mixed with chicken or mutton. The wheat is soaked overnight, then simmered in water along with meat and butter. Any remaining liquid is strained and the mixture is beaten and seasoned. Harees may be garnished with cinnamon, sugar, clarified butter and cardamom as well as parsley at times. It is often served during the holy month of Ramadan.
Machbous is not exclusively Qatari as it is a common dish in the Gulf in countries such as the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait. It is a rice-based dish that is slow-cooked with spices, meats and nuts. This rich combination of Eastern spices of cinnamon and cardamom, basmati rice, nuts, raisins and either mutton (laham), chicken, hamour fish, or even prawn is a staple meal in Qatar, served in a large communal dish. Machbous can be served with potatoes and hardboiled eggs. It is usually referred to as kabsa as they are two similar dishes.
Madrooba
Madrooba or mathrooba literally translates to beaten, which refers to the rice that is mashed after being cooked for a long period of time. It's made with fish or chicken in a creamy, buttery porridge. It's often eaten as a treat to break the fast of Ramadan. The dish can also be found in other countries in the Gulf such as Oman, Bahrain and the UAE.
Saloona
Saloona is a classic stew common in Qatar and the rest of the Gulf region made with meat and/or vegetables. The most common variety is prepared with chicken, but vegetables, other types of meat such as beef or lamb, and fish can also be used as the main ingredient. Saloona usually combines generously-seasoned, tomato-based broth with sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, vegetables, and the optional choice of the main ingredient. It can be eaten with or without rice, or bread, and is often served during the holy month of Ramadan.
Balaleet
Luqaimat
Known throughout the Arab world, luqaimat are small sweet dumplings made of butter, milk, sugar, flour, saffron and cardamom, deep fried and then drizzled with sugar syrup. They are usually served with tea and are a favourite during Ramadan.
In addition, coffee and tea are important in the daily lives of Qataris. Similar to the well-known Arabic coffee, Qahwa helw, also known as 'sweet coffee', Qatari coffee is a bright orange mixture with cardamom, saffron, and sugar. It can also be served with milk.
Try the Qatari way
If you want to try the best of Qatari cuisine, there are plenty of choices. You’ll be spoiled for choice at Souq Waqif and Souq Al Wakra. Local restaurants and cafés to look out for:
•Al Jasra Traditional Food, Souq Waqif
• Al Manchab, Al Hazm • Bayt Sharq, Ras Bu Abboud • E’asair Café, Souq Al Wakra
• Fouj Cafe, Grand Hamad St • Gahwetna, The Pearl Island • Harees Al Waldah, multiple locations
• Jiwan, National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)
• Karak Mqanes, multiple locations • Matbakh
Balaleet is a traditional sweet and savoury dish popular in the Gulf region as a breakfast choice. It is a fragrant casserole of noodles or vermicelli cooked with sugar, cardamom, rose water and saffron, topped with a flat egg omelette.
The Qatari desserts m
Al Doha (Doha Kitchen), Bin Omran • Nassayem Qatar, The Diplomatic Club • Opus, Park Hyatt
Doha • Saasna, Msheireb Downtown Doha
• Shay Al Shoomos Restaurant, Souq Waqif
• SMAT, Orient Pearl • Sofra, Alwadi Hotel Doha –MGallery • Walima, Mondrian Doha
Places to Dine
HOTELS
Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences 4492 3111
Asilah
August Zang
Sprezzi
The Oat House
The Surry
Al Samriya Hotel, Doha, Autograph Collection 4430 9777
Zoufa Restaurant
Al Najada Hotel 4470 4444
Al Baraha
Canela Café
Aleph Doha Residences –Curio Collection by Hilton 3359 3043
Ika South American
Mondo Cafe by Lavazza
Waka Shisha Terrace
AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton 4489 9000
Mezzo Lebanese, International
Moda Lounge Light
Alwadi Hotel Doha –MGallery Hotel Collection 4009 9999
AtTEAtude
Cila Levantine
Le Colonial
O'Glacee
Banana Island Resort
Doha by Anantara 4040 5050
Al Nahham
Azraq
Q Lounge & Restaurant
Ted’s
ADRIFT Anda, Le Royal Méridien Doha
Aizoon, Zulal Wellness Resort
HOTELS
Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb 4410 3310
Il Galante
All-day dining, Italian
Jardin Doha Mediterranean
Panya Lobby lounge
Qalamkarri Indian
Saffron Thai
Vertigo Pan Asian
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha 4009 5555
Dalchini Indian
Thai Kitchen Thai, international ✔ ✔
The Mezze House Lebanese
Crowne Plaza Doha –The Business Park 4408 7777
Aramede International
Arguelina Arabic, shisha
Liquidity Pool side drinks and snacks
Meesh Me-Time Cafe Cafe, light bites
Misturado Tex-Mex, international ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔
Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria
Savor International
Delta Hotels by Marriott City Center Doha 4470 3333
Babylonia Arabic
Ginza Bar Japanese
Laventana Restaurant Spanish
DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Downtown 4446 8888
La Casa
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha – Al Sadd 4004 7400
Silk Road Arabic, Indian, Levantine
StrEAT Culture International
Akte Pier 51, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Al Sufra, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha
CENTARA WEST BAY PLACES TO DINE
Hotel Culinary journey includes, Dalchini Restaurant new outdoor terrace, an open-air hangout, awaits your presence with the enticing AYUSH sustainable health-focused vegetarian menu and tantalising Tapas menu, promising an unparalleled Indian dining experience, enhance by the city sky lights. The contemporary Thai Kitchen Restaurant serving Thai Cuisine and International gastronomy, and The Mezze House a modern Lebanese Resto-Terrace serving masterfully handcrafted beverages and scrumptious mezze platters and grills; outdoor terrace serves classic Shisha flavours and Sommelier Selection.
For further information, call 4009 5555 or cwq@chr.co.th Visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/cen tara/cwq/
THE MEZZE
HOTELS
Dusit Doha Hotel 4004 4052
Antoinette's
Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha 4004 4052
Churchill Cigar lounge
Qureshi Bukhara Indian
360
Element by Westin
City Center Doha 4430 5771
Boiler Room
Joe's Diner
Element by Westin
West Bay Doha 4419 4000
Club 33
Shikimiki Restaurant International
Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town 4426 7777
Copper & Spice Indian, Arabic, International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘ Ivy Terrace Rooftop bar ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘ The Library Lounge, cafe ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘
Fairmont Doha 4030 7200
Dôme Lounge, cafe, afternoon tea
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra Indian
Provok Asian
Vaya! Latin American
Four Seasons Hotel Doha 4494 8888
Après Spa Café Healthy ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘
Curiosa by Jean-Georges Latin-inspired ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Elements International ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ISLE Lounge Bar bites
NAR Doha, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar
EXQUISITE FLAVORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Discover The Square, an exquisite all-day dining destination where every detail is crafted to perfection. Immerse yourself in the spacious ambiance - perfect for families with a dedicated kids' club and kids' activities. Indulge in one of the finest theme nights in town, from Butcher Night and Seafood Market to Friday brunches, where live stations create a captivating culinary performance.
Bars and More Bars More
HAPPY HOUR
When the clock strikes 5, it’s Happy Hour somewhere in the world and Qatar is no exception!
Happy Hours in Qatar are usually two or more hours of unlimited mixed drinks at discounted prices and the package may include limited or discounted prices on food. After a hard day’s work, unwind with friends at your favourite watering hole and save cash on your night out. There is something for everyone – Ladies Nights, gin promotions, wine tasting events and much more. Take it easy and enjoy comfortable cigar lounges or al fresco cocktail bars.
These are several promotions at hotels across the country. For more information, see Places to Dine, or visit the Marhaba website for our top picks.
HAPPY HOUR
EVERY SUNDAY TO THURSDAY, 5-7 PM
SELECTED BEVERAGES FROM QAR 35
KNOW YOUR GLASSES
Glasses have become increasingly sophisticated in shape in order to give the drinks they hold the best taste, and one look will usually suffice to guess what people are drinking. The champagne flute with its tall, narrow profile shows off the spakling bubbles as they brush against the side of the glass, and gives the maximum enjoyment of their short journey into oblivion.
The triangular cocktail glass with its wide ‘V’ shape keeps the ingredients from separating, while long stems allow the glass to be held without imparting warmth to drinks that are shaken or stirred with ice before being poured. Its larger, more rounded cousin the margarita or coupette glass has a broad-rim for holding the salt essential for this drink, and is widely used for exotic or tropical drinks and is a popular container for other fruit cocktails.
A Hurricane glass is a glass tumbler which typically will contain 20 fluid ounces (600 ml). It is used to serve mixed drinks. It is shaped similar to a vase or a hurricane lamp and is typically taller and wider than a highball glass. The Poco Grande glass has a similar fluted bowl shape but is shallower and has a longer stem. It is used for similar drinks as the Hurricane glass, but has a smaller portion size.
The highball and Collins glasses are very similar to each other. They each hold around the same volume – between eight and 12 ounces – though the Collins tends to be taller and more narrow, more of a chimney shape than the stouter highball glass, which usually tops off at 10 ounces. These tall glasses are typically used for ‘tall’ mixed drinks and filled with an abundance of ice. Usually, the drinks are built directly in the glass by pouring the ingredients over top of the ice and stirring.
The typical shot glass is made of thicker glass, particularly on the base. This reinforcement is designed to prevent breaking when, as is often done, the drinker slams the glass onto the bar top after downing the drink. Also, despite size and shape difference, they hold the same amount, which can be deceiving and something to be aware of in both shot glasses and beer mugs.
Poco Grande glass
Hurricane glass
Margarita or coupette glass
A MUSIC AVENUE
Tune in to the soulful melodies that await at The Stage accompanied by gourmet treats and handcrafted sips.
Tuesday to Saturday - 17:00 to 2:00
CLUBS AND BARS
ALWAYS TAKE YOUR PASSPORT/ID WHEN VISITING HOTELS
Al Mansour Suites
Alwadi Hotel Doha –
4020 8400
MGallery Hotel Collection 4009 9999
Best Western Plus Doha 4424 0000
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha
5555
Crowne Plaza Doha –The Business Park 4408 7777
Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay 4019 9999 Brewskis and Grub
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Doha – Al Sadd 4004 7400
DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Downtown 4446 8888
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha – Old Town 4034 3333
Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha 4004 4052
Qureshi Bukhara, Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha Roberto's, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar
INCA EVENINGS
Toast to the best vibrant parties in town filled with music, dance, and a blend of flavors.
TUESDAYS INCA RITUALS BY COYA MUSIC
Dj Laymoon | 10PM – 2AM
WEDNESDAYS FIESTA
Dj Jeanna | 10PM – 2AM
Welcome bubbly glass for the ladies
THURSDAYS EVENING BRUNCH
Starting from 280 QAR/ Person
Caner Cort | 10PM – 2PM
FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS
Caner Cort | 10PM – 2PM
Doors open till 3AM 4453 5135
CLUBS AND BARS
Rubix, Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
Scarpetta, Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha
CLUBS AND BARS
Le Méridien City Center, Doha 4041 3333
4445 1555
8888
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha 4035 5555
5555
1144
Pullman Doha West Bay 4009 4066
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
Silk Road, DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd
CLUBS AND BARS
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha 4428 1555
Saraya Corniche Hotel, Doha 4497 3777
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort 4021 4000
4425 6666
4485 4444
Ritz-Carlton, Doha 4484 8000
The Restaurant, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
The Oat House, Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences
A FRENCH RIVIERA-INSPIRED BRUNCH
Our weekly brunch rendez-vous invites you to revel in a sensory journey inspired by the sun-kissed landscapes and vibrant culture of the South of France.
Every Saturday from 12:30pm to 4:00pm
Packages from QAR 390
Around Town Around Town
Places to Dine
AROUND TOWN
*Multiple locations, respective number listed
DOHA BEACH CLUB
Al Dafna 5999 6122
HANNAN KITCHEN
Fereej Bin Mahmoud 5013 2378
International Bistro, Lunch, Dinner Serves alcohol
Burmese, Vietnamese, Thai Lunch, Dinner
LA PETITE MAISON (LPM) DOHA
Al Maha Island 4420 9888
PAPER MOON DOHA
Jaidah Square
4016 6000
French Lunch, Dinner Serves alcohol
Italian Lunch, Dinner
Weekend Brunch Serves alcohol
SHANGHAI ME DOHA
West Bay
3063 3429
TUK TUK SAIGON
Fereej Bin Mahmoud
3079 8889
Pan Asian Lunch, Dinner Serves alcohol
Burmese, Vietnamese, Thai Lunch, Dinner
AROUND TOWN
*Multiple locations, respective number listed
Al Mourjan Al Corniche
Aloosh Restaurant Salwa Road, Souq Waqif
4423
4444
Al Sayyad The Diplomatic Club 4484 7420
Amara Al Muthanna Complex, Salwa Road
Barrio Fiesta Al Muthanna Complex, Salwa Road 4490 4886
Chili’s* 4411 5848 American, Tex-Mex · The Noodle House* 4411 5063 Southeast Asian · Outback Steakhouse* 4414 9028 Steakhouse · Sushi Minto* 4467 5577 Japanese, international
DOHA FESTIVAL CITY
Eataly* 4028 5055 Italian · Jamie’s Italian* 4455 4812 Italian · Wagamama* 4463 3876 Japanese, Pan Asian
MALL OF QATAR
Debs W Remman* 3333 4663 Lebanese · Neo* 4431 1577 Chinese, Japanese · Ocean Basket 4490 2944 Fish and chips · Cheesecake Factory* 4452 9019 American, international
THE GATE MALL
Eatopia 4020 6400 International, bakery · Jones the Grocer 4407 7175 Australian · Vapiano* 4407 7188 Italian · Yugo 4407 7118 Asian, Thai
THE MALL
Biella* 4467 7732 Italian
Villaggio Mall
Asha’s* 4452 9662 Indian · PF Chang’s 4452 8541 Asian bistro · Paul* 4495 9815 Patisserie, light meals, French · Romano’s Macaroni Grill 4451 7585 Italian · The Butcher Shop & Grill 4495 9847 South African, steak · Wok of Fame 4413 4772 Asian, international · Yee Hwa* Al Kinana St 4441 9898 Korean, Japanese
QATAR MUSEUMS
IDAM Museum of Islamic Art 4422 4488 Mediterranean · Jiwan National Museum of Qatar 4452 5725 Qatari · Naua Restaurant 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum 4452 5190 Healthy fine dining
GLOSSARY OF MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE
Find recipes in Recipe section
Al haysa Small sweets made from dates
Al arayess Deep fried lamb in a sandwich
Ataif (qatayef) Small pancakes stuffed with nuts or cheese, doused with syrup
Baba Ghanoush Chargrilled aubergine, tahini, olive oil, lemon and garlic dip
Baharat Arabian mixed spices
Baklawa (baklava) Sweet layered pastry with nuts, in lemon-honey syrup
Bamiya Okra and lamb in tomato stew
Basboosa Semolina tart soaked in syrup
Batata harra Potato cubes fried with hot pepper
Bukhari rice Lamb or chicken and rice with onion, lemon, carrots and tomato paste
Burghul (bulgar wheat) Wheat kernels used in tabbouleh and kibbeh
Cardamom Aromatic spice used to flavour Arabic coffee, yogurt and stews
Ejje Arabian omelette
Falafel, taamiya Small deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas or broad beans with spices and herbs
Fasenjan Chicken with walnuts and pomegranate syrup from Iran
Fatayer Pastry pockets filled with spinach, meat, cheese or zaatar
Fattouche Salad of toasted khubz, mint, cucumbers, tomatoes and lemon
Coffee is made in two traditional versions in Qatar. Gahwa arabiya, the cofee of the Gulf, is a light golden colour spiced with cardamom and served in tiny cups.
The term ‘Middle Eastern cuisine’ includes Arab, Turkish and Persian food. In Qatar, chefs from all over the region provide delicious examples of their local dishes.
Baklawa
Baba Ghanoush
Gahwa Gahwa
Haleeb Milk
Halwa (halva) Sweetened sesame paste, with nuts, fruit or chocolate
Hamour White fish from the grouper family
Hamra Red Snapper
Hummous Puree of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, garlic and olive oil
Jebne White cheese
Kebab Skewered chunks of meat or fish cooked over coals
Kamareddine Apricot nectar used to break the fast in Ramadan
Kharouf meche Whole lamb stuffed with rice, nuts, spices, raisins and rose water
Khouzi A whole lamb served on a bed of rice
Khubz, pita Flat round bread for sandwiches
Kibbeh Oval nuggets of ground lamb, burghul, pine nuts and spices
Kibbeh naye Raw kibbeh, similar to steak tartare
Koshary Rice, pasta and lentils, with onions, chillis and tomato paste
Koussa Stuffed courgettes
Kufta (kofta) Fingers, balls or flat cake of minced meat and spices
Kunafah Thin pastry with sweet white cheese, nuts and syrup
Laban Tangy sour yogurt drink
Labneh Thick cream cheese made from yogurt, sometimes spiced
Laham bi ajeen Arabic pizza
Loomi Dried lime tea
Loubia (fassulya) Green beans in tomato sauce
Ma’amul Cakes filled with either dates, walnuts or pistachios
Machbous A favourite Gulf dish of lamb, chicken or fish with rice
Makloubeh Meat or fish with rice, broad beans and cauliflower
Maqdous Small aubergines stuffed with walnuts, garlic and steeped in olive oil
Mehshi Aubergines, courgettes, vine leaves or cabbage stuffed with meat, rice and onions
Mezze (mezzah) A selection of hot and cold appetisers
Moghil Crushed rice made into a pudding
Mouhammara Mixture of ground nuts, olive oil, cumin and chillis
Mouloukia Edible green leafed stew usually cooked with chicken
Moutabel Aubergine dip made with tahini, olive oil, lemon and garlic
Muhalabiya Silky textured semolina pudding served cold
Moutabel
Grilled red snapper
Kibbeh
Mutabak Sweet or savoury pastry stuffed with cheese, banana or meat
Qatayef Syrup soaked stuffed crêpes
Rocca Salad greens with peppery mustard flavour
Rubbiyan Shrimp
Sambusek Triangular pies filled with meat, cheese or spinach
Sayadiyah Delicately spiced fish served on rice
Saleek Lamb and rice dish, where the rice is cooked in milk
Shai (chai) Tea is an essential in much of the Middle East. It is usually served black in small glasses often flavoured with mint, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon or ginger and sweetened
Shaour Red Sea fish from the Emperor family
Shawarma A wrap of pressed lamb, chicken or beef roasted on a spit; the meat is shaved off as the spit rotates. Khubz is filled with shawarma meat, pickles and topped with tahini sauce
Shebsi A spinach stew flavoured with a variety of herbs including dill
Shisha A water pipe for smoking tobacco and (hubbly-bubbly) used when drinking coffee or after a meal
Shisk taouk Skewered chicken pieces cooked over coals
Shorbat addis A rich, nourishing lentil soup
Shrimp kabsa Shrimps cooked with rice and spices rather like a paella
Sukkar Sugar
Sumac Ground red powder from the cashew family, used as a seasoning
Tabbouleh Salad made from burghul, tomato, parsley and lemon juice
Tagine A rich slow-cooked stew from Morocco and western North Africa traditionally served with couscous in a conical serving dish of the same name. Samak tagine is cooked with fish
Taklia Ground coriander and garlic mixture
Tahini Oily paste made from ground sesame seeds, used in hummous, moutabel and baba ghanoush
Tamr Dates
Tatatour Thick dip made from puréed pine nuts, garlic and lemon
Umm Ali ‘Ali’s mother’ is a pastry pudding soaked in milk with raisins and coconut
Warak enab Vine leaves filled with rice, rolled into a cigar shape and cooked
Yansoon Hot spiced tea, used medicinally
Zaitoon Olives
Zaatar Thyme; ‘special’ zaatar is a blend of thyme, marjoram, sumac and salt
Zubeidi Pomfret
Shawarma Tangine
Warak enab Shawarma Tangine Warak enab
Suits and Bites
Sarabeth’s Suits and Bites special business lunch menu, makes every midday break a moment of indulgence
QAR 99 for three-course menu
Sunday-Thursday, 12:00 - 5:00 PM
For reservations or more information, please call 4040 2222
marhaba eats out...
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl –Qatar
Start Your Day Right with Public House’s Hearty
American Breakfast
Author: Marrian Magtira
Located in the heart of The Pearl in Doha, Marsa Malaz Kempinski combines Arabian and European elegance, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city. On a warm Saturday morning, we visited Public House, the hotel’s renowned retro
American diner and sports bar, to enjoy their newly launched American Breakfast. With its bright vintage interiors, retro neon signs, and a digital jukebox, Public House transported us to the classic era of American diners.
The morning sun gently lit up the setting, creating the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely breakfast. Public House, with its welcoming vibe, stood out as the ideal place to start the weekend with some classic American comfort food. The service was exceptional, with the staff being very accommodating and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The breakfast meal kicks off our day, and it is a special time for enjoying delicious food and getting ready for what’s ahead. Whether it’s pancakes with syrup or a plate of eggs, it’s all about starting the morning right with tasty and comforting dishes. And when it comes to a satisfying breakfast experience, Public House has everything you need.
We sampled some of Public House’s delightful breakfast dishes, and they exceeded our expectations. Among our favourites were the Public House Oats, the Fried Chicken and Waffle, and the Eggs Benedict.
The Public House Oats, a generous mix of oatmeal, chunky peanut butter, maple syrup, banana, and caramel, provided a comforting start with a perfect blend of textures and flavours. The Fried Chicken and Waffle offered a delicious contrast of savoury and sweet, featuring crispy chicken, light waffles, tangy maple gastrique, and refreshing pickles. A standout was the Eggs Benedict, served on a toasted English muffin with poached eggs, silky hollandaise sauce,
turkey ham, and mashed avocado, made exactly to my liking and preference.
Though these dishes were our favourites, everything we tried was truly amazing.
And to wash down all the food we had, we enjoyed the Choco Chill Out Smoothie and the Berry Sundae Sensory Smoothie, both delightful and refreshing.
Public House is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty American breakfast in Doha. There’s also an option to dine outside – while it’s too hot now, it will be a refreshing experience when the weather gets better.
The American Breakfast menu is exceptional, with each dish crafted to perfection, combining the nostalgia of a retro American diner with the elegance of its location. The amazing service and accommodating staff made the visit even more memorable.
American Breakfast at Public House
• When: Fridays and Saturdays, 9 am – noon
• Price: Starting from QAR55
• For bookings or further enquiries, please call +974 4035 5011, WhatsApp +974 7479 0864
Join them every Friday and Saturday morning for a hearty start to your day with the renowned American Breakfast. Bring your appetite and join them for a morning filled with good food, great company, and unforgettable flavours. m
Alwadi Hotel Doha –MGallery
Le Colonial Breakfast
Author: Terry Sutcliffe
A marhaba eats out...
lwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery in Msheireb Downtown Doha can be the perfect start to your day at Le Colonial – the first dedicated breakfast room in Doha.
‘P’ti Dej’ as they call it and if you know some French you’ll realise it’s an abbreviation from ‘Petit Déjeuner’, meaning breakfast. So there is a French connection, and for breakfast that is entirely helpful, indeed very beneficial.
The coffees are great, and the bakery section is to die for (think baguettes, croissants, muffins, cake, quiche and more) but this is Doha and here we love food from all around the world. Le Colonial surrounds
us with an international buffet prepared in open kitchens from the finest ingredients, fresh, local and international.
You have muesli and cocopops, chia pudding, cold cuts and cheeses, salami slices, sun-dried tomatoes, chili sauce and samosas, local favourites like hummus, mutabel, muhamara and labneh, a full English breakfast if you like, with eggs any style.
But first, as you enter you are greeted with a fresh, zingy welcome drink, a sort of liquid amuse-bouche. The room is friendly, the seats are spacious and comfortable, and there was a healthy crowd when we visited, which is always a good sign.
A good way to start is with your choice of coffee, whether Australian, Italian or French inspired. And in Le Colonial, coffee lovers are not subject to ever higher penalties for indulging in their passion. For the very healthy and very thirsty, there’s a full range of fresh juices and different milks. These go well, of course, to accompany your choice of cereals, chocopics and Alpen muesli as do the absolutely yummy yoghurts, plain or fruit-flavoured, plus a muesli porridge, à la Bircher, lovingly prepared overnight and almost guaranteed in itself to give you a bright and blooming start to your day, even help you climb a Swiss mountain pass or two…
Talking of eggs, the eggs Benedict (and Florentine) in Le Colonial are absolutely gorgeous and certifiably scrumptious too! Created in New York by inventive immigrants, made even more mouth-watering by the classic, creamy hollandaise sauce – that bedrock of French cuisine – eggs Benedict and Florentine have become worldwide breakfast favourites and Alwadi will show you why.
There’s absolutely nothing missing in this familyfriendly buffet. While I was excited to explore the range of nuts, seeds and fresh fruits to add to my already mouth-watering muesli(s) – both Bircher and Alpen – my table mate, after a starter of cold cuts, cheese, quinoa salad, beetroot bits, salami, smoked salmon and mackerel with dressings ranging from pleasant to piquant, was now well into a fully cooked traditional English breakfast with sausage, mushrooms, bacon, beans, browns, pancakes, eggs any style including baked, plus lots of freshly cooked vegetables including leafy green pak choi, a delicious addition.
Can we have a dessert at breakfast. Ths included about just one more coffee and those sweet-looking strawberrieries in a danish pastry, or those decorated donuts, an always-attractive sweet almond croissant, just one piece of that charming cake.
But we have to end sometime, while the boundless bountiful buffet constantly replenishes and refreshes itself.
We left, ever so happy and satisfied with the selection and options we could choose from. Whatever your food likes and preferences, Le Colonial’s breakfast buffet will surely cater.
P’ti Dej at Le Colonial
6 am – 10 on weekdays; 6 am – 11:30 am on weekends
QAR100 per person
For enquiries or reservations, please call 4009 9999 or WhatsApp +974 3075 8211. m
marhaba eats out...
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha
A Sumptuous Start to the Day at Thai Kitchen
Author: Ayen Molina
Centrally located within Doha’s vibrant financial and business district, Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha offers a convenient and well-connected experience.
This hotel provides easy access to a multitude of attractions and amenities, catering to business and leisure travellers alike. Whether you’re visiting for work and need proximity to important corporate centres or seeking to explore the city’s cultural and recreational offerings, the prime location of this hotel ensures a seamless and enjoyable stay. Marhaba recently had the pleasure of indulging in a delightful Weekend Tabletop Buffet Breakfast
experience at Thai Kitchen, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha.
With its bright and spacious layout, Thai Kitchen exudes an inviting atmosphere that effortlessly combines comfort and sophistication, an ideal stage for a memorable dining experience.
The breakfast spread featured an assortment of breakfast staples like made-to-order omelettes, bacon, flavourful sausages, freshly baked pastries, cereals, refreshing fruits, and yogurt, among others. The presence of hot and cold options ensured that guests had a diverse selection to suit their preference.
Additionally, Thai Kitchen embraced the local culture by proudly showcasing regional specialities such as foul and hummus, along with an enticing mezze dishes. Guests were given the opportunity to savour the flavours of the region.
For those seeking a refreshing beverage, their beverage station offers a delightful opportunity to customise a revitalising concoction. With a variety of cold juices and detox water options available, guests can enjoy invigorating drinks.
One shouldn’t miss the coffee and tea station. The station is a true haven for coffee and tea enthusiasts, offering a delightful selection of aromatic coffees and an assortment of teas.
The attentive and friendly staff Dew, Rizal and Poorna deserve special mention. From the moment we entered the area, we were greeted with warm smiles and received prompt service throughout our dining experience.
Their attentive and friendly demeanor added an extra touch of hospitality. The diligent chefs at Thai Kitchen ensured that the buffet was continuously replenished, ensuring freshness and maintaining the high quality of the food.
Considering the variety, quality and overall experience, we found the breakfast buffet at Thai Kitchen to be good value for money. The price was reasonable, offered a wide array of options with unlimited servings.
The Weekend Tabletop Buffet Breakfast at Thai Kitchen at Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha is available every Friday and Saturday, 6:30 am – 10:30 am, priced at QAR99 per person. Qgrabs vouchers are accepted only on Fridays and Saturdays.
For more information and reservations, please call 4009 5520 or send a WhatsApp message to 3001 5360 m
S marhaba eats out... HanNan Kitchen
HanNan Kitchen: Your New Destination for Authentic Asian Flavours
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
omewhere along the streets of Bin Mahmoud, just beside Meteor Garden Salon, stands HanNan Kitchen, a new restaurant making a name for itself in Qatar’s Asian cuisine scene. Known for its authentic Burmese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes, we couldn’t pass up the chance to try it. You know the food is authentic when locals eat in it.
As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted by a colourful and vibrant atmosphere. The ceiling, adorned with colourful Burmese sun hats, adds a charming touch. The servers promptly guided us to our seats.
One thing about Asian cuisine is the adventure of trying new and unfamiliar food. As per the staff recommendation, we enjoyed a variety of tasty appetisers. The Gourd Tempura served with tangy Myanmar tamarind sauce was surprisingly good! It was light and crispy, offering a perfect balance of flavours. A bit of a warning though—it’s spicy!
We also tried the Vietnamese Savoury Mini Shrimp Pancakes, known as Bánh Kht. These mini pancakes, cooked in a cast iron pan and topped with spring onions and shrimp, were served with a drizzle of coconut cream, offering a delightful blend of crispy and creamy elements.
And what’s an Asian meal without boba tea? We tried their Thai Green Milk and Thai Milk Bubble Tea. Both drinks were refreshing and creamy, a must-try!
The Sharing Platter was a delightful mix and more practical if you’re sharing the meal with friends or family. It included Fried Chicken Wontons, Fried Chicken Spring Rolls, Chicken Skewers, Vietnamese Shrimp Fresh Rolls, and Shan Tofu Salad. The platter was served with its own dipping sauces—Vietnamese fish sauce, peanut sauce, and sweet chilli sauce.
Moving on to the next round, we chose the Som Tum Thai salad, a classic Thai papaya salad. This dish combined grated papaya, tomatoes, long green beans, and red chilli, all mixed in a zesty lime juice dressing and topped with dried shrimp and peanuts. The salad was refreshing and had a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours that we loved.
For the main courses, we tried the Mont Hin Gar, a Burmese delight made with rice noodles in a seasoned fish and shallot-based broth, enriched with lemongrass. This dish was served with split pea fritters and a boiled egg, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.
The Pad Krapao was another standout dish. This Thai classic featured stir-fried minced meat (with options for chicken or beef) cooked with basil, dried red chilli, and Thai herbs. It was served with steamed rice and a fried egg, creating a comforting meal.
For seafood lovers, the Fried Garlic Prawn and Fried Garlic and Chili Prawn were excellent choices that truly stood out. Both dishes offered juicy prawns cooked to perfection, infused with the aromatic flavours of garlic and chilli.
For dessert, we enjoyed the Crispy Fried Banana Fritters. The deep-fried bananas were golden and crispy, and the combination of coconut ice cream and maple syrup added delightful sweetness to the dish. We also tried the famous Mango Sticky Rice, featuring three kinds of sticky rice (Pandan, Butterfly Pea, and Classic) with juicy mango slices and ice cream. The mango was perfectly ripe, matching beautifully with the rice and ice cream.
If you’re craving Asian cuisine or keen to try a new Asian restaurant, you should definitely head over to HanNan Kitchen. After trying a range of their Burmese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes, we left impressed and satisfied.
For reservations or enquiries, please call 5013 2378 or visit HanNan Kitchen m
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay
Yun-ique Flavours,
Unforgettable Experience
Author: Ayen Molina
O marhaba eats out...
ur Marhaba team snuck out for lunch to sample Yun’s à la carte menu, eager to experience this new spot firsthand.
Yun, the new kid on the block serving up authentic Cantonese and Taishanese cuisine, promised a symphony of flavours – and let me tell you, they delivered! Nestled on the 44th floor of Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, this restaurant captivated us with its enticing aromas and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Stepping into the restaurant is like stepping back in time to a glamorous 1930s supper club, complete with attentive staff happy to guide you through the menu and offer recommendations. The difficult part? Choosing from the array of tempting dishes. Thankfully, our amiable server, Dream, was a dream come true, recommending a selection of dishes that showcased the best of Yun’s offerings.
Our taste buds were instantly tantalised by the welcome appetiser: thin slices of capsicum, marinated overnight for a perfectly balanced tangy, sweet, and spicy flavour. Dream informed us that this delightful starter changes daily, adding an element of surprise to each visit.
To complement the flavours, she suggested a selection of mocktails that sounded too tempting to resist. Her recommendations included: Yangtze’s Genesis, a refreshing blend of slow-drip cold-brewed green tea, honeydew, lemon juice, coconut water, lime, and a touch of honey; Chongqing Heatwave, named after the vibrant city, combines non-alcoholic beer, ginger herbal tea, pineapple, and a hint of spicy huajiao or flower pepper; and A Night in Fengdu, inspired by an ancient city nestled on the north bank of the Yangtze River, an intriguing drink blending cold-brewed black tea, pomegranate juice, cranberry cordial, citrus, and blueberries, topped with a wisp of bubble smoke.
Steaming baskets arrived, each one a treasure chest of flavour. The handmade wagyu dumplings, with thin, translucent wrappers showcasing the plump, juicy filling within (a personal favourite!). The forest mushroom and fresh black truffle steamed bao
bursting with savoury, umami goodness – the bun itself resembling a plump, earthy mushroom. We couldn’t resist the applewood-smoked beef brisket bao, its tender filling infused with smoky, barbecued flavour. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, the star of the show arrived – Forbidden City roast duck served in three delicious ways. First, the chef expertly prepares the duck tableside, slicing the glistening skin to reveal the tender meat beneath. Next, you get to create your own perfect bite with thin pancakes, duck slices, fresh vegetables like leeks, cucumber and honeydew melon, and hoisin sauce. The feast continues with fragrant duck fried rice hidden under a flaky pastry crust, served with a special sauce. Finally, a comforting delicate soup with silken tofu, Chinese cabbage, and mushrooms, simmered in a flavourful duck broth, provides a fitting end to this unforgettable duck experience – a true celebration of every part of this prized ingredient.
While the dim sum and roasted duck were the highlights, the rest of the lunch menu certainly impressed. And for a sweet finish? Imagine fluffy clouds of happiness in the form of charcoal egg custard bao, or the refreshing tropical notes of mango sago. And for a truly unique treat, the milk pudding with black sesame ice cream is not to be missed, best enjoyed with a pot of hot tea.
Yun is a welcome addition to Al Dafna’s dining scene, offering a taste of authentic Cantonese and Taishanese cuisine in a glamorous setting. Whether you’re a seasoned dim sum aficionado or a curious newcomer, this is a must-try spot for a delicious and satisfying dine out.
Yun is open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday to Saturday, noon – midnight.
For reservations and more details, call 4008 9000, WhatsApp +974 5102 9105 or email waldorfastoriadoha.restaurants@waldorfastoria.com m
marhaba eats out...
Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences
Sprezzi at Abesq: Poolside Italian Cuisine
in
Doha
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
The weather is perfect for some Italian cuisine, and it’s off to Sprezzi for a quick getaway. The lunch destination is a chic poolside spritz bar, situated on the 10th floor of the Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences.
In the context of a bar or restaurant, the name Sprezzi might suggest a sophisticated, stylish, and relaxed atmosphere where elegance comes naturally. And you would be right!
We took a moment to admire the modern chic ambience of the place. Sprezzi is an indoor poolside bar where we enjoyed the view of the city and overlooked the Doha skyline and Corniche while having lunch. Outdoor seating is also available for those who want to stay by the poolside.
Our meal at Sprezzi started with a delightful array of appetisers. First up was the bruschetta, a classic Italian starter that was both simple and satisfying. The toasted bread was perfectly crisp, topped with a fresh mix of tomatoes, garlic, and basil that burst with flavour in every bite.
Next, the Salad Sprezzi stole the show with its vibrant medley of baby peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil. The crisp lettuce hearts and peppery rocket leaves were complemented by shavings of ParmigianoReggiano and tender slices of roast chicken, making it a refreshing yet hearty dish. With the appetisers alone, we were almost full.
Sprezzi offers an impressive selection of drinks, ensuring something for everyone. From bottled beers to spirits, the choices are extensive. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options like myself, there’s no need to worry as they offer drinks such as coffee, tea, fresh juices, and their must-try mocktails.
We particularly enjoyed their special drinks: The Sparkling Apple, a refreshing green apple, lime, basil, and sparkling water, and their Balsamic Strawberries, an intriguing mix of strawberries, balsamic vinegar, basil, and soda water. Both were delicious and unique, perfect for a warm day by the pool.
Moving on to the mains, we tried their Carbonara, which was a delightful mix of creamy sauce, crispy pancetta, and al dente pasta. This dish stood out and became our favourite.
Next, we tried their Lasagne alla Bolognese. This dish featured layers of rich, meaty Bolognese sauce, creamy béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta sheets, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust – and I must say, given its size, it’s perfect for sharing.
We were full already, but we couldn’t miss their dessert. So we chose two delectable dolci. We tried the Tiramisu, dusted with cocoa powder on top. It was light, creamy, and not overly sweet—just perfect.
The Cannelloni Pancake, on the other hand, was a chocolate cream-rolled pancake with no-booze zabaglione and chocolate chips, another favourite. You may be wondering what no-booze zabaglione is: it refers to a version of the traditional Italian dessert zabaglione, typically made with sweet wine or liqueur, but this version is made without alcohol, Both desserts provided a perfect finale to our meal, ensuring we left satisfied.
Our lunch at Sprezzi was enjoyable, combining good food, lovely views, and a relaxed setting. Sprezzi offers a delightful dining experience with its wellcrafted dishes and wide range of drinks, all set in a chic poolside atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack, a hearty meal, or a refreshing drink, Sprezzi has something to please every palate.
Sprezzi is open daily from 11 am until midnight. Make sure to check them out.
For enquiries and bookings, call +974 4492 3333 or 4492 3111 m
marhaba eats out...
The Cellar, Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
Discovering Spanish Flavours at The Cellar in Doha
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
The summer heat in Qatar can be quite intense, making it the perfect excuse to unwind and treat ourselves to some fantastic food. So, we decided to escape the midday sun and head to The Cellar, located on the ground floor of the Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha, to try their new menu.
The Cellar is a charming haven that promises an authentic slice of Spain right in the heart of the city.
This isn’t just any restaurant; it’s a vibrant celebration of Spanish culture and cuisine.
The décor, reminiscent of a traditional Spanish tapas bar, combined with a dark, cellar-like ambience, added to its unique charm. The gentle hum of Spanish music in the background set the perfect mood, transporting us to the lively streets of Seville and the bustling nightlife of Barcelona.
The dim lighting and sophisticated setting make The Cellar an ideal spot for a romantic date or simply enjoying quality time with friends. The Cellar has a designated smoking area, so everyone can enjoy their time comfortably.
To begin, we got complimentary toasted bread with roasted garlic and a spread, plus olive oil on the side. It was a tasty start to our meal.
Then we tried their Croquetas de chorizo Manchego; these little bites were a revelation. Initially, I thought they were just a common deep-fried appetiser, but to our surprise, they exceeded our expectations. They were crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, and we devoured them quickly, relishing every bite.
Moving on to the classics, Gambas Al Ajilo were next. Juicy prawns swimming in garlic-infused olive oil – this dish was simplicity at its finest. The prawns were cooked to perfection, tender and bursting with flavour. The garlic provided a lovely aromatic quality without overpowering the delicate taste of the prawns. We sure loved it with every bite, and it became one of our favourites!
For the drinks, we enjoyed a refreshing Sangria mocktail, full of fruity notes and just the right amount of sweetness and sourness. It was the perfect companion to the rich dishes, a palate cleanser with every sip. The Mango Agua Fresca was equally delightful, with its tropical freshness and vibrant flavour, making it a fantastic non-alcoholic option.
For the main course, I chose the Grilled Beef Tenderloin. A generous 200 grams of succulent beef, grilled to my liking – medium-well – accompanied by crisp French fries and perfectly cooked vegetables on the side. The rosemary jus was great, adding a fragrant, savoury touch that tied everything together beautifully. The tenderloin itself was melt-in-yourmouth delicious – a real treat for any meat lover. Then, we had the Paella de Marisco from the Selection of Paellas. This dish was filled with fresh seafood like prawns, mussels, and squid. The rice was perfectly cooked, infused with saffron. In case you’re wondering what Paella means, ‘Paella’ is a Spanish word that refers to a traditional rice dish from Valencia, Spain. It’s typically cooked with a variety of ingredients, such as seafood, chicken, rabbit, vegetables, and saffron, which gives the dish its distinctive yellow colour.
Going back, well, this paella isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience loved in both Spain and the Philippines. Every bite brings back memories of my first try of paella in the Philippines. So whether in Doha or Manila, one thing is clear – this paella is more than a meal, and the paella at The Cellar is one of the best I’ve ever tried.
It’s dessert time! In Spanish culture, having dessert after a meal is often considered a delightful way to end the dining experience on a sweet note.
We tried some Churros. These golden sticks of joy were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, served with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce. They were a perfect end to the meal, satisfying our sweet tooth without being overly heavy, A must-try!
Lastly, we tried their Tarta de Santiago which has a lovely, moist texture and a delicious almond flavour. It’s quite rich and slightly sweet, with a taste that’s really satisfying. The dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a nice touch of sweetness. This dessert is the perfect partner for a sour-sweet raspberry sorbet on the side, creating a delightful contrast of flavours that complement each other perfectly.
Dining at The Cellar was a delightful taste of Spain, right in the heart of Doha. From the cosy ambience to the mouthwatering dishes, every moment was a true culinary experience. For a quick trip to the streets of Seville and Barcelona, The Cellar is the perfect spot. Don’t miss out—treat yourself to a slice of Spain today! Vamos a comer!
The Cellar Menu
For reservations or enquiries, please call 4141 1250, 4141 1234, WhatsApp 6608 5806 or visit Hyattregencyoryxdoha.com. Explore The Cellar at Hyatt Regency Oryx in Doha’s monthly offers HERE
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa
Sawasdee to Authentic
Thai Cuisine: Sabai Thai’s Set Menu
Author: Weslee Dizon
I marhaba eats out...
n Thai, ‘Sabai’ means comfortable, relaxed, or feeling good. It often describes a state of wellbeing and contentment. ‘Sabai Thai’ translates to ‘Thai comfort’ or ‘Thai relaxation.’
This essence of comfort and relaxation is exactly what Sabai Thai Restaurant inside The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa offers through their exquisite food and impeccable service, embody traditional Thai hospitality and culinary excellence.
For those who have already visited, most will agree that Sabai Thai is one of the best Thai restaurants in the country. While they offer an à la carte menu, their Set Menu, priced at QAR 179 per person, is a standout option if you want to try their best dishes.
The food at Sabai Thai is a true culinary experience, bringing the vibrant flavours of Thailand to your table. Each dish is meticulously crafted to balance the signature Thai elements of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, creating a harmonious and memorable dining experience.
From the appetisers like the Yum Som with its refreshing mix of pomelo, shrimp, and tamarind dressing, to the Goong Slong, which offers a delightful crunch with its crispy prawn paired with sweet chili sauce, the starters set the stage for an exceptional meal. Special mention also to the Nua Laab Kua that honestly can be served as a main course with its succulent BBQ beef ribs. The soups on the other hand, such as the Tom Yum Goong, are aromatic and rich, packed with herbs and spices that warm the soul.
The main courses continue to impress with dishes like the Pad Thai Goong (a personal favourite), a perfect blend of textures and flavours with its combination of rice noodles, tofu, beansprouts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. For a heartier option, the Nua Pad Nam Man Hoy features tender beef and vegetables in a savoury oyster sauce. The Keang Kewa Wan Gai presents a nice blend of vibrant green curry infused with Thai eggplants, the subtle heat of chili, the earthy freshness of coriander roots, and the fragrant sweetness of basil, all enveloping tender
chicken pieces. Meanwhile, Ped Sauce Makam offers a contrast with its crispy braised duck complemented by the crunchy texture of fried shallots.
Desserts at Sabai Thai are a perfect finale, with offerings like I-tim Kati, a creamy coconut ice cream served with pistachios and baked pumpkin, and the favourite Thai dessert Khao Niaw Mamuang, famously known as Mango Sticky Rice.
Truly, every dish at Sabai Thai prove the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity rooted from the rich culinary landscape of Thailand.
If you want to try this awesome offer, you can call them directly at 3359 8514. Please note that booking in advance is required for the set menu offering. You can also ask about customising their set menu, according to your budget. They’ll gladly walk you through to tailor your dining experience to your preferences.
• Sabai Thai Set Menu
• QAR179 per person
• Available for advance bookings at 3359 8514 m
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
Tulum Summer Club:
Where Every Bite is a Summer Vacation
Author: Ayen Molina
A marhaba eats out...
s the season heats up, there’s no better way to cool down than lounging, eating, and drinking by the pool. Look no further – Tulum has launched its Summer Club. Dine by the poolside and splash into relaxation for the perfect break.
Situated on the seventh floor of the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, Tulum presents a bohemian-chic
flair within a serene setting adjacent to the pool. It serves as an ideal haven for relaxation and summer enjoyment, complete with poolside dining.
As we made our entrance, the hospitable marketing manager, along with Tulum’s Ariana, greeted us warmly. The pool looked inviting as Ariana handed us towels and bracelets, signifying that we were free to enjoy a dip in the pool whenever we wished. And even before we could take the plunge, we were treated to banana-flavoured popsicles, which brought out the child within me.
The Summer Club weekday menu features refreshing dishes and drinks to transport guests to a tropical paradise, from light and healthy options to indulgent treats. We started with their homemade guacamole and nachos, which is my ultimate comfort food – so satisfying that I could contentedly sit all day with just this and a beverage in hand. This delightful beginning was followed by a Quinoa Salad with black-eyed beans and avocado, topped with a hibiscus flower reduction, and the Mexican Cowboy Salad, a delectable mix of tender and savoury flank steak, crispy tortilla, avocado, beans, and cheese.
Ariana handed us the beverage menu, but we requested a surprise, specifying a preference for little or no sugar. Soon after, two tiki glasses arrived: one with Horchata, a blend of hibiscus, cinnamon, rice milk, and raspberry puree, and the other with Maracuya, combining pineapple, passion fruit puree,
tarragon syrup, yuzu, and ginger ale – both drinks were perfect for the summer heat.
Then it’s time for the main course: savoury Enchiladas Rojas, tender chicken encased in soft corn tortillas, accompanied by black beans, avocado, and sour cream, and the Mexican Arrachera, a succulent grilled flank steak presented with halloumi cheese, sautéed corn, and Mexican rice, rounded out with pieces of tortilla. You can enjoy the dish on its own or create your own wrap with the steak.
After such a hearty meal, a swim felt like the perfect choice. Hours later, refreshed from our time in the water, we returned to our table for the grand finale –a creamy tres leches cake and a bowl of fresh fruit, all while a live DJ set the vibe.
Tulum is open to guests every day from noon until midnight. The Summer Club offers a set weekday menu priced at QAR199 per person, which includes soft drinks and pool access, or you can upgrade with QAR150 for enhanced beverages. On Fridays, they have a brunch buffet from noon to 4 pm for QAR249 with soft drinks or QAR349 with enhanced beverages; both options include pool access. The pool closes at 8 pm.
Explore their menu by clicking here. For bookings, you can call 4419 5510 m
marhaba eats out...
Alwadi Hotel Doha
Discover Cila: A Hidden
Gem of Levantine Delights
in Msheireb Downtown
Doha
Author: Weslee Dizon
Msheireb Downtown Doha boasts a range of hotels and restaurants, each vying for attention in Qatar’s vibrant culinary scene. But if you’re looking for a new option, let us introduce you to a hidden gem: Cila, snugly tucked within Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery Hotel Collection
Described as a charming restaurant blending traditional tastes with contemporary cuisine, Cila’s interior design pays homage to Qatari culture and
local traditions, with dhow boats, pearl diving scenes, and travel bags adorning the walls. The menu showcases Levant cuisine and regional delicacies, enticing diners with specialty dishes available à la carte during lunch or dinner.
Our previous visit here left us with satisfied stomachs, so this time, we opted for a leisurely exploration of some of Cila’s signature dishes during a slow lunch.
The signature mezze platter is a must-try, featuring creamy hummus, tangy muhammara, mutable, and babaganoush, served with their freshly made bread.
From the warm mezze menu, we also had the spicy potato harra and the inventive shrimp kounafa, offering a delightful twist on the classic dessert.
For our main course, we enjoyed the perfectly grilled seabass served with steamed veggies and a zesty lemon butter sauce. Generously portioned, it left us feeling satisfied without any hint of bloating.
We concluded our meal on a high note with the indulgent Pistachio Cream Brulee and velvety Chocolate Fondant, perfect for some coffee or tea on the side.
The next time you’re craving a fresh dining experience or aiming to impress with classic dishes, whether you’re accompanied by friends, family, or flying solo, Cila eagerly awaits your arrival.
Call +974 4009 9666 for more information or reservations.
marhaba eats out...
Roberto’s Doha Restaurant and Lounge, St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar.
Il Pranzetto Business
Lunch at Roberto’s Doha Restaurant and Lounge
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
Thinking about where to have lunch on a Wednesday?
If you are planning for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, add this to your calendar, and head over to Roberto’s Doha Restaurant and Lounge at The Residences Tower 8, 1st Floor, St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar.
Our recent business lunch experience there was delightful, especially with the option to dine on their balcony and admire the stunning backdrop of The Pearl Island. Despite the midday heat, they were well-prepared, ensuring a comfortable experience for its diners.
Now you may be wondering what Il Pranzeto means. Il pranzetto is an Italian term that translates to ‘the little lunch’ or ‘the small meal’. It usually refers to a light or informal meal eaten around midday, similar to a snack or a light lunch. And certainly, we’re in for a delightful experience!
To start our culinary journey, a complimentary basket of bread was served, and among them, the Focaccia stood out. Following that, we indulged in their tomato soup with homemade crostini and basil, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Additionally, we sampled their bruschetta, topped with fresh cherry tomatoes.
If you’re not familiar with the dishes on the menu, there’s no need to worry. The staff members are incredibly friendly and helpful, ready to assist you every step of the way.
On to our main course, we tried their Roasted wagyu striploin steak with jacket potato and gravy on the side. It’s rich and buttery, definitely melting in your mouth as you eat it. The meat is packed with flavour and stays wonderfully moist due to the fat content.
It’s accompanied by a savoury gravy and jacket potato, making it a perfect combination. It costs an additional QAR70, but it’s definitely a must-try main course!
We thoroughly enjoyed the Roasted chicken breast and mashed potatoes. The roasted chicken stood out for its moist, well-seasoned, and perfectly cooked meat, cooked to perfection throughout. As for the mashed potatoes, they were delightful – buttery, creamy, and velvety smooth. Unsurprisingly, we both found ourselves loving every bite.
To conclude our meal, we were treated to an extraordinary creation: the Strawberry Cheesecake. This dessert transcended the ordinary, showcasing innovation in every bite. Skilfully crafted and artfully presented, it captivated both the eyes and the palate. The cheesecake was creamy and full of both sweet and sour strawberry flavours. It came with a refreshing scoop of strawberry sorbet on the side. It was a delicious ending to our meal, showing off the chef’s skills and making our dining experience unforgettable.
You really shouldn’t miss visiting Roberto’s. Not only can you soak in the stunning ambience and breathtaking views, but the culinary journey is also an experience not to be missed. As soon as you arrive, the excellent service makes the whole experience even better. The food is delicious and expertly made, showing off the skills of the chefs. Whether you’re having a business lunch or just relaxing with friends, Roberto’s is the ideal place to enjoy some really good food and great company. I am sharing with you the Il Pranzetto menu so you can check ahead of your visit.
Il Pranzetto Business Lunch at Roberto’s Doha Restaurant and Lounge
The Residences Tower 8, 1st Floor, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar, is open from 1 pm onwards. Daily, except Tuesdays and Fridays, priced at QAR120 per person (3-course set menu).
For reservations or enquiries, please call 4020 4460 or 3995 3756 or book here. Explore The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl – Qatar’s monthly offers HERE
Al Najada Hotel Express Business Lunch at Al Baraha
Author: Maria Anicas
A marhaba eats out...
t the heart of the iconic Souq Waqif lies Al Baraha Restaurant in Al Najada Hotel, and one sunny yet cool afternoon led us to try their Express Business Lunch al fresco style. While Al Baraha boasts a beautiful and spacious indoor seating area, its outdoor space, featuring a combination of Qatar’s enjoyable weather and the stunning backdrop of Souq Waqif, is an experience not to be missed.
The Express Business Lunch, starting at QAR70 for three courses, began with a choice of soups. The Lentil soup was hearty and wholesome, the Cream of Mushroom soup was rich and creamy, and the Tomato soup was vibrant and tangy.
Moving on to the mains, the Penne Alfredo Pasta was the perfect blend of creamy Alfredo sauce and al dente pasta, the Mixed Grill featured cuts of meat expertly grilled to perfection, while the Chicken Biryani, so fragrant and aromatic, was well-balanced with spices and tender chunks of chicken.
Saving the best for last, the dessert selection was really impressive. The Date Pudding, rich and moist, delivered a sweet essence that paired perfectly with the subtle sweetness of dates. The Crème Brûlée had a crackling caramelised top and velvety custard beneath, and the Umm Ali, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, was a standout with its layers of pastry, nuts, and sweetened milk, creating a deliciously comforting finale.
True to its “express” promise, the service at Al Baraha was prompt and efficient, ensuring our business lunch concluded in no time. Each course arrived with a timely efficiency that allowed us to enjoy the entire experience without feeling rushed, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying yet quick lunch.
Express Business Lunch at Al Baraha Saturday to Thursday, noon – 3:30 pm
Starts at QAR70 (3-course menu)
For reservations, please call or WhatsApp +974 5529 3149
m
Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences
Seal Your Deal at The Oat House’s Business Lunch
Author: Weslee Dizon
A marhaba eats out...
besq Doha Hotel & Residences, a recently opened five-star IHG hotel located in downtown Doha near the Ramada signal, is making its presence known in the city. Among its dining outlets is The Oat House, a gem that recently caught our attention with its ‘Seal Your Deal’ Business Lunch, priced at a reasonable QAR90 per person.
The property gives you this mix of posh vibes and traditional Qatar feels. The Oat House, located just
a quick right turn from the lobby, seems like the cool kid in the hotel scene. It’s not trying too hard, just welcoming you in for some good eats. And they have outdoor seating too!
Now, let’s talk about the ‘Seal Your Deal’ business lunch. Initially, we anticipated the typical hotel lunch deal, but to our surprise, it exceeded expectations at an accessible price point. The experience commenced with a thoughtful touch – complimentary bread and spreads for the table.
Each week, The Oat House curates its Business Lunch offer by mixing and matching items from its diverse main menu. Check out their rotating menus below. During our visit, the focus leaned towards Asian fusion.
We dug first into the ‘Chunky & Spicey’ appetisers – cauliflower rice, tahini, bell peppers, crushed nuts, and tortilla chips. The portion was generously sized for sharing between two people.
Then, the ‘Steak & Chips’ comes along. Listed as an appetiser but feels like a main course – rib eye, porcini mushrooms, and super skinny fries. The Oat House is definitely playing with your food expectations, but in a good way.
Moving to the main course, the ‘Fusion Pho’ brought a unique twist to the familiar Vietnamese dish. The sesame broth, noodles, baby corn, and broccoli blended seamlessly, offering a departure from the ordinary. The option to request additional broth demonstrated a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction.
Their ‘Pad Thai’ is doing its thing, toeing the line between sweet and spicy and it’s a nice move to have the spice levels adjustable. Serving was also big enough for sharing.
The chef further surprised us with a baked salmon fillet accompanied by quinoa and romanesca sauce, catering to health-conscious preferences.
Dessert arrived in the form of the ‘Twisted Coconut Mango Split’ and ‘Honey Roasted Peaches’ – a sweet conclusion to our flavour-packed lunch.
To sum it up, the ‘Seal Your Deal’ Business Lunch at The Oat House is undeniably a must-try deal. Whether you’re planning a power lunch, a negotiation session, or seamlessly blending both, this meticulously crafted 3-course meal is tailored to enhance your business meetings or a quick lunch out. Beyond the food, the venue boasts a spacious and tranquil ambience, complemented by top-notch service.
Seal Your Deal Business Lunch
The Oat House, Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences
Sunday to Thursday, noon – 4 pm
QAR90 per person (3-course meal inclusive of one soft beverage)
Additional 30% for enhanced beverages during the Happy Hour
For enquiries or reservations, please call +974 4492 3333. m
Park Hyatt Doha
Elevate Your Business
Lunch Experience with Delicious and Nutritious Food at Anis
Author: Ayen Molina
I marhaba eats out...
n the fast-paced and competitive world of business, every decision matters, even when it comes to lunch. That’s why it’s essential to choose a restaurant that not only provides an excellent ambience and service but also serves delicious and nutritious food.
Many times, we find ourselves settling for quick and unhealthy options, sacrificing our health and well-being for the sake of saving time. But what if I told you that
you can have it all—a convenient business lunch that is both tasty and good for you?
Anis at Park Hyatt Doha is a health-conscious eatery located just steps away from Msheireb Metro Station. The menu offers a straightforward yet nourishing dishes, recognising the importance of fueling your mind and body with quality ingredients that not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide the essential nutrients needed to power through your workday.
We began our meal with a refreshing caprese salad with heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil with a delicious pesto dressing. This was followed by beef bresaola and rocket salad with parmesan mousse. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavours blended perfectly together.
The main course arrived promptly. A generous portion of fish and chips and chicken breast roast served with sweet potatoes were succulent and well-seasoned, providing a satisfying protein boost. The portion size was substantial for a power lunch, leaving us feeling satisfied.
To conclude our meal, we savoured dessert bites paired with refreshing beverages.
The staff was attentive, polite, and quick to accommodate any special requests. They ensured that our power lunch experience was seamless and enjoyable.
Considering the ingredients’ freshness and the overall dining experience, it’s a great value for a power lunch in a classy setting like Anis.
Power Lunch is available every Sunday to Thursday from 11:30 am to 3 pm. Priced at QAR69 per person.
For more information and reservations, call +974 4009 4344 or Whatsapp at +974 3158 7940. m
marhaba eats out...
Katara Hills
Doha
Business Lunch at Gymkhana
Author: Maria Anicas
Get ready to explore Gymkhana’s latest culinary creation – the Business Lunch. Gymkhana, a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant within the luxurious Katara Hills Doha, now offers a Business Lunch that brings you a taste of India’s finest cuisine, presenting a mix of flavours that harmonise tradition with modernity.
Ambiance and Setting
The restaurant’s description of evoking the elegance of Colonial India’s elite clubs was no exaggeration. The sophisticated interior, adorned with traditional decor and vibrant colours, exuded a regal charm that
transported me to a bygone era. The abundant natural light filtering through the glass windows added a touch of warmth, making the space inviting and cheerful. It was the perfect setting for a refined dining experience.
The attentive staff, who greeted us with genuine smiles, set the tone for an experience that was as much about the people as it was about the food. Their dedication to making us feel at home was evident, as they guided us through the menu and attended to our needs with grace and professionalism.
Flavours that Enchant
Gymkhana’s menu is a delightful exploration of Indian flavours, expertly marrying traditional techniques with contemporary twists. Our meal began with an array of papads accompanied by a selection of chutneys, setting the tone for what was to come.
The samosa chaat is officially one of my favourite starters. It’s like a tasty mix of flavours and textures. The samosas are crispy, and the channa masala is really hearty. The tamarind sauce adds a sweet and tangy taste that makes every bite interesting. Plus, the sev on top gives a nice crunch when you eat it. When you put all these things together, it’s like a big burst of different yummy flavours in your mouth that feels both cosy and exciting at the same time.
For the main course, I opted for the prawn biryani, a fragrant masterpiece that showcased the kitchen’s mastery of spices. Each bite was a revelation, with tender prawns and perfectly cooked rice infused with layers of aromatic spices. The dish was
perfectly balanced, with the sweetness of the prawns harmonising with the rich and earthy notes of the biryani spices. The pomegranate mint raita provided a refreshing contrast, its coolness and tanginess cutting through the warmth of the biryani. It was served with dal maharani, which added a comforting touch with its creamy texture and medley of lentils, and saag makai for a burst of green freshness.
Dessert was a showstopper – the gulab jamun adorned with edible gold. This classic Indian sweet was elevated to an exquisite level of indulgence, with the gold adding a touch of luxury.
Gymkhana at Katara Hills Hotel is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary voyage through India’s rich and diverse flavours. The attention to detail in presentation and taste was evident in every dish, elevating the entire dining experience.
If you’re on the hunt for a business lunch, Gymkhana’s enchanting ambiance, impeccable service, and exceptional dishes make it a must-visit destination. The Michelin star it proudly wears is a reflection of the dedication to culinary excellence that Gymkhana embodies.
Business Lunch at Gymkhana
Sunday to Thursday, noon – 4 pm QAR125 per person
For reservations, please call +974 4402 4317. m
marhaba eats out...
Al Rayyan Hotel Doha
A Business Lunch Delight at Mezzo
Author: Harvey Vippond
Mezzo is a hidden gem that offers the perfect business lunch every day - it is located adjoined with the Al Rayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Recently, I had the pleasure of trying their enticing business lunch, a delectable three-course meal that includes a starter, a main course, and a dessert, all for the unbeatable price of QAR60. The restaurant’s convenient location within The Mall of Qatar makes it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors looking to indulge in a scrumptious meal during lunchtime.
The business lunch at Mezzo is designed to cater to discerning tastes without breaking the bank, and it surely delivered on its promise.
To kick off my culinary journey, I opted for the ‘Landscape of Tomatoes,’ a delightful starter that showcased the harmony of flavours through its thoughtful presentation. The dish featured a creamy Burrata cheese, complemented perfectly by the freshness of local rocket leaves.
The balsamic glaze drizzled over the tomatoes added a tangy twist to the ensemble, while the crunchy pine kernels provided a delightful texture. This dish alone could easily set the tone for an impressive meal, but the best was yet to come.
For the main course, I savoured the White Mushroom Pizza with Truffle Oil and Rocket Leaves, a heavenly creation that left me longing for more. The thin crust was perfectly crisp, offering a satisfying base for the medley of flavours. The combination of earthy white mushrooms, aromatic truffle oil, and peppery rocket leaves elevated the pizza to new heights, making it an exemplary fusion of tastes that appealed to both traditional and adventurous palates. Mezzo’s culinary prowess truly shone through in this main course, proving that simple ingredients can be masterfully combined to create the perfect pizza.
As I reached the dessert course, the Chocolate and Pistachio Lava Cake took the stage, concluding the meal on a sweet and satisfying note. The molten chocolate lava oozed out as I delicately cut into the cake, revealing a decadent and indulgent treat. The richness of the chocolate was beautifully balanced by the nutty essence of pistachio, making each mouthful a heavenly delight. The dessert was a fitting finale to the exceptional dining experience at Mezzo.
The highlight of the business lunch at Mezzo undoubtedly lies in its incredible value. For just QAR60, patrons can relish a delightful starter, a mouth-watering main course, and a divine dessert – an exceptional deal that sets Mezzo apart from other dining establishments in Doha. The quality and variety of dishes offered at this price point make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience without straining their budget.
So, whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring Doha, Mezzo is a restaurant that deserves a prominent spot on your culinary map. Savour the delightful business lunch and treat yourself to a remarkable dining experience that promises to leave you craving for more.
The Business Lunch at Mezzo is open daily, from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
For reservations, call +974 4489 9000. m
marhaba eats out...
JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
A Glamorous Tea Party at Shanghai Club
Author: Lalaine Sumaray-Turqueza
Did you know that Shanghai Club, that posh venue on the 43rd floor of JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, offers quite a relaxing afternoon tea escape for ladies every Tuesday?
The ‘tea party’ starts with treats, served in a layered black tray, a glossy contraption that provides a nice contrast to the sweet and savoury flavours of at least 12 different colourful bites.
If you plan to impress a friend or indulge in a glamorous afternoon tea party, consider this latest offering from Shanghai Club. For QAR350, their Ladies Only Afternoon Tea - good for two - offers an opulent selection of pan-Asian bites and exquisite patisserie paired with a curated choice of Chinese tea and mocktails.
We each took a glass of the mocktail on offer, pretty and subtly sweet, and two pots of hot tea - the mild Ginger Calm Tea and my personal favourite, the sweet flowery concoction called the Happy Forest Tea.
The dainty bites looked much too dainty to bite, but this set of treats nourished and unfortunately could spoil your appetite for dinner. The only reasonable option would be to take an earlier slot - they offer slots from 2 pm until 4 pm and from 4 pm until 6 pm. Book an earlier slot so that you can have your cake and eat it, properly, with a pot of tea (or glasses of mocktails).
In addition to tea, Shanghai Club also offers a live performance and a stunning view of West Bay. The afternoon tea is available only on Tuesdays and exclusively for ladies only.
For reservations, call 4429 5295 or send a Whatsapp message to 5203 8176.
marhaba eats out...
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
The Blanc Story: A Unique Afternoon Tea at The Chedi
Author: Lalaine Sumaray-Turqueza
This afternoon tea is said to be the ‘most expensive’ on our list at QAR395 for two persons. It comes with a full tray of white delicacies, dainty bites and a white chocolate tree centrepiece complete with a fluffy cotton candy ‘bloom’.
A blanc story
The concept for a blanc afternoon tea was inspired by the enchanting realm of The Chedi, a celebration of a culinary journey that pays tribute to the colour white. Each of the accompanying bites is said to transport guests into the ethereal beauty of the surrounding landscape, a transformative experience that is sure to leave one in a state of enchantment.
Beyond the elegant presentation, the experience did take us back to a time when tradition and elegance were more important. And the stunning views of the Arabian Sea set the mood. This is a place to take good friends for an overdue catch-up session, an ideal date space for couples looking to spend some intimate tea time together.
Savoury and sweet
We started with the savoury bites, a pretty mix of everything you’d expect from a proper meal - snow crab, shrimp, chicken and vegetables, light enough to go with a proper afternoon tea, but nourishing and filling when served together.
You’d expect the sweet section to be less complex and of course, sweet, but it was in fact, surprisingly flavourful.
How they managed to fit in all these flavourful sugar in dainty packages still amazes me. But this is The Chedi. And for a hotel with a reputation for grandeur, you can expect nothing less than the best.
While the offer is for an afternoon tea, guests can opt to order coffee or any other drink on the side. Each guest will also be served a welcome drink - a pina colada mocktail - in keeping with the spirit of Arabian hospitality.
A harp player softly strums in the middle of the lounge, unbothered by the crowd. Her music filled the room but she remained inconspicuous, much like the relaxing sound of her harp.
It was a different afternoon tea experience, not one that we will forget in a while.
Blanc, a unique afternoon tea, is served from 3:30 pm at the Lobby of The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort at QAR395 for two people.
For reservations and enquiries, send an email to reservations@chedikatara.com. m
marhaba eats out...
Park Hyatt Doha
Signature Afternoon Tea
When it comes to indulgent afternoon teas, Park Hyatt Doha knows how to deliver an experience that seamlessly blends elegance, exquisite flavours, and stunning ambiance. Our recent visit to enjoy their Afternoon Tea left us thoroughly impressed.
We’ve had the pleasure of choosing between two equally enchanting settings: The Living Room and The Library. Regardless of your choice, you’re in for a treat. The views of Msheireb Downtown Doha from both locations are breathtaking. The sophisticated decor, deluxe seating, and soft lighting create an atmosphere of pure relaxation and luxury. It’s a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The afternoon tea menu at Park Hyatt Doha boasts a well-balanced selection of both savoury and sweet delights, each crafted with precision and care. The delicate pastries and savoury bites were a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, making the entire experience at Park Hyatt Doha’s Afternoon Tea truly Instagram-worthy.
The savoury selection offers a creative mix of bites, including Chicken Caesar Tacos, Arancini with Mushroom and Mozzarella, Smoked Salmon Philadelphia Rolls, and Quiche Lorraine with Broccoli and Flower.
Author: Maria Anicas m
We also indulged in sweet treats, from the Zesty Lemon Tart topped with meringue to the Nutty Pistachio Financier, Bourbon-infused Berliner, airy Choux au Chocolat, vibrant Raspberry Macaroon, refreshing Bonbon Ice Cream, Tropical Mango Passionfruit with Coconut, and warm homemade scones accompanied by velvety vanilla cream and fruity jam.
The Afternoon Tea is priced at QAR260 for two persons and includes your choice of Jing Tea or Café Richard. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an afternoon of refined indulgence, Park Hyatt Doha’s Afternoon Tea is a choice you won’t regret.
marhaba eats out...
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
Flavours of Japan by the Arabian Sea: Sushi Night at The Chedi Katara
Author: Marrian Magtira
It was a beautiful evening at The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The mix of modern luxury and traditional elegance set the stage for our dining adventure.
Although The Restaurant offers lovely outdoor dining by the pool with relaxing sea views, we chose to dine indoors due to the summer heat.
Sushi Night at The Restaurant is all about delicious sushi and Japanese flavours. We started with a variety of appetisers that were simply amazing. The Spicy Kani Salad combined crisp cucumber with spicy crab, topped with a tangy dressing that added a nice kick. The wagyu tataki featured tender slices of beef, lightly seared and served with a tasty ponzu sauce. The calamari was light and crispy, with tender squid inside. The shrimp popcorn, small pieces of shrimp in a crunchy golden crust, was a fun and tasty treat.
Then came the sushi, and it was truly the highlight of the night. The Tuna Soya Wrap with sesame was fresh and flavourful, with a delicate soya sheet and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The crispy chicken maki roll had a great mix of tender chicken and crunchy vegetables. The tempura maki with salmon was perfect, with a light, crispy batter around fresh salmon. The eel rice ball was rich and savoury, with smoky eel on top of perfectly seasoned sushi rice.
For dessert, we had the vanilla strawberry roll with chocolate. This unique treat was surprisingly delicious, with the sweetness of vanilla and strawberry balanced by rich chocolate. We also enjoyed a selection of ice creams, which was a refreshing end to our meal. The Restaurant offers many options for dessert, ensuring that everyone can find something to satisfy their sweet tooth.
As the night ended, we looked back on the wonderful dining experience. Sushi Night at The Chedi Katara’s The Restaurant had exceeded our expectations. From the delicious food to the beautiful atmosphere and excellent service, it was an evening to remember.
If you’re in Doha and love sushi, this is a must-visit.
Sushi Night at The Restaurant
• Tuesdays, 7 pm - 11 pm
• QAR295 per person
• Call 4144 7777 for reservations m
marhaba eats out... Kaia,
The Ned Doha
Double the Delight with Kaia’s Friday Steak and Sushi Night
Author: Ayen Molina
Marhaba was invited to experience the exciting Friday Sushi and Steak Night at Kaia, located within The Ned Doha, housed in the former Ministry of Interior building, now transformed into a haven of 1970s-inspired glamour. With its unparalleled location offering breathtaking panoramic views of the shimmering Arabian Gulf and Doha’s iconic skyline, The Ned has become a favourite gathering place for both locals and expats, a testament to its welcoming atmosphere and diverse appeal.
Upon entering Kaia, earthy greens and warm browns greet you. The rich forest greens and warm wood tones blend seamlessly, creating an intimate ambience, like discovering a hidden jewel box nestled in nature. This AsianPacific-inspired restaurant is known for its modern take on cuisine from Southeast Asia and the tropical islands of Hawaii.
While typically specialising in sushi, poké bowls, and dishes from their robata grill, Kaia has curated a special evening where the art of sushi meets the sizzle of perfectly cooked steak. Heightening the experience, you can watch the chefs craft your meal at the live station, ensuring freshness and artistry in every bite.
And what better way to begin than with three of my alltime favourites: steamed Edamame Beans sprinkled with sea salt, a bowl of Miso Soup with wakame, tofu, and spring onion, and a crispy Crab Salad with cucumber, tobiko, yuzu kosho mayo, and a touch of chilli powder.
To complement our meal, the attentive staff presented their signature mocktails: the refreshing Tencha (a harmonious blend of Japanese matcha, lime, and green agave), Tumi (with peppermint, lemongrass, strawberry, and orange), and Persicum (a fusion of peach, apple, parsley, and a hint of chilli).
A humongous platter arrived, personally presented by Kaia’s sushi chef, Marsan Ortega – a culinary masterpiece too pretty to ruin. It boasted an array of vibrant colours and textures, showcasing the freshest catches of the sea. There was the California Roll, a
classic combination of crab, avocado, and a tangy kimchi mayo. The Chef Tempura Roll had delightful crispy tempura bits, thin fried potato, and a drizzle of both teriyaki and dynamite sauce. Sashimi, sliced to perfection, featured delicate cuts of salmon, tuna, and sea bass. Nigiri, with perfectly moulded rice, offered a similar selection, with the addition of succulent shrimp and yellowtail.
For the main course, we savoured a trio of premium cuts: prime beef fillet with teriyaki garlic sauce, Wagyu striplon with a truffle plum dressing, and prime ribeye steak complemented by a ponzu Maltaise sauce. Each steak was served alongside coconut rice, asparagus spears, and tenderstem broccoli.
After a delightful and satisfying meal, we concluded with soothing chamomile and refreshing green tea.
Kaia’s Friday Sushi and Steak Night is a promising concept that delivers on both flavour and presentation. Those seeking a unique dining experience with high-quality ingredients will surely be impressed.
Available every Friday, 7 pm – 11 pm
Pricing:
QAR228: Includes soft beverages
QAR328: Includes enhanced beverages
QAR428: Includes bubbles
QAR99: For children aged 6-12 years old
For reservations or further information, call +974 4406 1111 or WhatsApp +974 5118 4515. m
Copper & Spice, Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha
Old Town
Spice Up Your Wednesday Nights at Copper & Spice!
Author: Ayen Molina
A marhaba eats out...
nd so it was that I embarked on another culinary adventure through India, this time at Copper & Spice, Embassy Suites by Hilton
Doha Old Town
Nestled in the heart of Doha’s charming Old Town and just steps from the beautiful Doha Corniche, Embassy Suites boasts a prime location for exploration. Within a short 10-minute walk, guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant Souq Waqif or delve into the rich history and culture showcased at both the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art.
After living in Qatar for over 15 years, immersed in its diverse tapestry of cultures and cuisines, especially alongside my Indian friends and colleagues, I must say that I can almost discern whether the food is truly authentic Indian or not.
The sight of meats hanging in the tandoor station is the main indicator that we’re in for a Tandoor Theme Night experience. Forget massive buffets; instead of an overwhelming spread, Tandoori Inn Night is all about quality, offering a curated selection of tandoor favourites. Get ready for standout dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth Murg Malai Kabab and flavourful Tandoori Fish Tikka. And how could any Indian dining experience be complete without biryani? The Shrimp Biryani, my personal favourite, was a truly satisfying experience!
The appetisers definitely got our dinner off on the right foot. There are both spicy and non-spicy dishes, like the Chicken Tikka Salad and the Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Chaat. And while not traditionally Indian, their Caesar Salad was so good, we had to go back for third servings! Although some dishes had a little more zing than others, none were overly spicy.
Overall, the salads were refreshing and stimulating starters, perfectly prepping our palates for the main course.
For our main course we sampled: Palak Vegetable Curry, Shahi Paneer with tomatoes and Indian spices, Coconut Fish Curry, Chicken Tikka Masala roasted marinated chicken chunks in a spiced sauce, Lamb Do Pyaza in onion based curry, Dal Tadka the comforting lentil dish, and of course, a never-ending supply of naans and pappadums. The dishes looked simple enough, until we tried the dishes one by one, pairing each spoonful with either rice or naan. The flavours were always strong and tasteful but never over-powering.
For dessert, we had a few classic Indian sweets like the crispy, sweet Jalebi and Gulab Jamun, the gram flour-based Besan Ladoo and the ever-popular Rasmalai. Made from paneer or cottage cheese, the Rasmalai’s expertly balanced sweetness was the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. The non-Indian desserts were equally tempting, with options like Honey Cake, Carrot Halwa, Chocolate Fudge Cake, and fresh fruits.
From starters to desserts, the different plates all tasted unique and original, spicy to our preferred degree of hotness, and delicious.
Indulge in a feast of delectable tandoori specialities every Wednesday evening from 7 pm to 10 pm, for just QAR120 per person. This offer is also available on buy one, get one free discount apps. For reservations, please call 4426 7777. m
marhaba eats out...
The Chedi Katara Hotel
La Marsa Katara at The Chedi: Wednesday Seafood
Buffet with Stunning Views
Author: Weslee Dizon
If you’ve been to Katara, you probably have seen the overwater bungalows in front of The Chedi Katara Hotel. One of these bungalows is home to La Marsa Katara restaurant (formerly known as Restaurant Marsa Katara), the so-called jewel in the culinary crown at The Chedi Katara.
Befitting its location with a marvellous view of the Doha skyline and The Pearl Island, La Marsa serves a gourmet menu of Mediterranean flavours and Middle
Eastern classics, plus shisha, all accompanied by sublime sea views. Every Wednesdays, the restaurant hosts a seafood night, dubbed ‘Seafood Around the World’, which we tried last week.
The premise is simple: it’s a seafood buffet, so expect a wide selection of international seafood delights. From refreshing salads and sushi to freshly cooked fish and crustaceans, the spreads were brimming with a variety of flavours and textures that catered to every palate.
The buffet offered a diverse range of seafood items that balanced the meal. Salad options like the crisp seaweed avocado salad, tuna carpaccio, and the tangy tomato bocconcini provided refreshing starters, while more substantial options like oven-baked hamour and scallop and fennel salad added depth to the meal.
One of the highlights was the spicy lobster tail, which delivered a satisfying kick. The popcorn shrimp and crumbed fried squid were perfect crunchy sides for the different dishes, especially when paired with the restaurant’s homemade sauces, which added an extra layer of flavour. There was also a pasta station on the spread. The seafood pilaf rice was also a huge hit, aromatic and packed with succulent seafood.
The dessert spread was equally impressive, featuring a selection of sweets that provided a perfect end to the meal. From decadent cakes and pastries to lighter options like fruit tarts, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
But more than the food, it’s the vibe, the view, and the top-tier service that make the experience truly exceptional. As you dine, you’re surrounded by the gentle sounds of the sea, the twinkling lights of the Doha skyline, and the serene beauty of The Pearl Island. The setting is intimate and luxurious, making it perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration.
The service at La Marsa is impeccable. The staff is attentive without being intrusive, and eager to make your dining experience memorable. They go above and beyond to ensure that every need is met and every expectation is exceeded.
• When: Wednesdays, 7 pm – 10:30 pm
• Price: QAR295 per person
• For inquiries or reservations, please call +974 4144 7777 m
marhaba eats out...
Mezzo, AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton Spices and Aroma at Mezzo
Author: Ayen Molina
Marhaba was invited to try the delectable Indian dishes at Mezzo restaurant of AlRayyan Hotel Doha
Mezzo restaurant, situated on the ground floor of AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton, offers guests the unique convenience of being located within the bustling Mall of Qatar. Guests can indulge
in Mezzo’s culinary delights and then enjoy the extensive retail and entertainment options that the mall provides, all within walking distance.
As soon as we walked in, the rich smell of curries and tandoori welcomed us, and the food carts really made it feel authentic. I dove in with the pani puri, a wellknown Indian street food, and found myself pleasantly challenged by its zesty heat.
The live station offered an array of bites: samosas, chicken rolls and cutlets, flaky puff pastries, and Paniyaram – the delightful ball-shaped South Indian dumplings, pan-fried to perfection.
Then, it was on to the salad station. Each dish brought its own unique blend of flavours and textures, from the Chicken Tikka Salad to tangy and satisfying Chana Chaat, and even the intriguing bite of the Bitter Gourd Salad.
At the dosa station, Chef Shehan Kodikara prepared a light and crispy dosa, which was a true delight. Over at the biryani food cart, the fragrant selection featured the mild flavours of Jeera rice, the richly seasoned Chicken Biryani, and the Lamb Biryani stealing the spotlight.
At the tandoori section, diners can choose their preferred marinated meats like prawns, lamb and chicken which are then expertly wrapped in banana leaves and grilled. This method not only infuses the meats with the subtle aroma of the banana leaf but also locks in moisture, resulting in a uniquely delectable tandoori experience.
The curry spread features a variety of dishes, including Sambhar Curry, Aloo Gobhi, and the everpopular Butter Chicken – which is always on my musthave list at an Indian feast. Other dishes include Fish Curry, Paneer Jalfrezi, and Lamb Coconut Fry.
For dessert, there was an ample variety to satisfy any sweet tooth. The Chatpata Orange Shooter added a zesty twist, while the spread of fruits offered a fresh palate cleanser. Traditional sweets completed the lineup: the dense, milky Peda and Ladoo, rice pudding Paysam, rich and dense Mysore Pak; and the creamy Rasmalai. All these alongside a particular favourite, Mango Lassi, a creamy and delightful drink that you could enjoy to your heart’s content with unlimited refills.
Savour the rich and vibrant flavours of India at Mezzo, AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton every Thursday night between 7 pm and 10 pm. The price is QAR140 per person, with a buy-one-get-one offer available on discount apps.
To reserve your table, please call or WhatsApp +974 5513 3472. m
marhaba eats out...
Avenue, Pullman Doha West Bay
Thursday’s Ocean Bounty at Avenue
Author: Ayen Molina
Ever wondered why Thursday is usually seafood night at Doha hotels? Thursdays being close to the end of the workweek make it a popular time for dining out, and seafood’s reputation as a special or celebratory food aligns with it being featured to kick-start the weekend.
And that is precisely why we were here – we had been invited to try the Thursday seafood night, one of several theme nights at Avenue located in Pullman
Doha West Bay. Upon arrival, we were met by an affable marketing manager and the team who directed us to a highly desirable table by the window. The venue was decked out in nautical decor, and the inviting smell of the sea filled the air. In keeping with the theme, the staff were dressed in classic sailor outfits, and the lively performance by a musical duo created an immersive and enjoyable atmosphere for guests.
The buffet spread was divided into sections – bread and soup, salads, main dishes, live cooking station, and dessert station. There was an incredibly fresh array of salads to start off with, including mezze, Greek salad, smoked salmon, sushi, and cold seafood. Completing the scene, pizzas were fired in the oven, and the grilling station was ready to delight the palate.
Setting sail on our culinary adventure, we started with the appetisers, facing a delightful challenge as their selection covered some irresistible classics like fresh oysters, sushi, smoked salmon and octopus salad, enough to be a feast on its own! Our strategy was simple: savour a little of everything.
Next up was the main event. You pick out seafood from the buffet and they grill it for you on the spot. The choices were plentiful – lobsters, mussels, fish, and prawns. In no time, the chef served us a great mixed seafood platter. We also feasted on a variety of seafood dishes: baked salmon, salmon teriyaki, and whole fish baked in sea salt. There was also a flavourful seafood paella and a risotto in black ink, which was topped with crispy fried calamari.
For those who might prefer options beyond the bounty of the sea, the buffet doesn’t disappoint. There are equally tantalising non-seafood dishes available like creamy Cajun chicken, roasted beef or enjoy the classic simplicity of a Margherita pizza.
The remnants of our seafood indulgence, a tower of shells on our plates, was a testament to the sumptuous lobsters, mussels and oysters we had just devoured. The dessert spread was a decadent finale – chocolate fondue accompanied by an assortment of fresh fruits for dipping and panna cotta. Other treats included chocolate and rice puddings and a variety of cakes such as date and almond, and several cheesecakes.
Indulge in Seafood Night every Thursday at the Avenue, located in Pullman Doha West Bay, from 6:30 pm to 11 pm. Prices begin at QAR240 per person, which includes soft drinks, juices and water, or opt for the enhanced beverage package for an additional QAR150.
To book your spot or for more details, please call 4009 4066 or WhatsApp to +974 3301 3666 m
marhaba eats out...
Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha
Dinner with a View at Tropicana 360
Author: Ayen Molina
Marhaba was invited to dine at one of Doha’s popular pubs and restaurants – Tropicana 360, located on the 48th floor of Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha. This modern venue offers a comfortable indoor setting and a large outdoor terrace ideal for dining, lounging, and enjoying shisha. True to its name, it boasts a high-rise dining experience on Doha’s highest terrace, offering full-circle city views.
Despite the clear presence of the summer breeze, we chose to sit outside to fully appreciate the view of the urban jungle. We were warmly greeted by the amiable marketing manager along with Tropicana’s chef de cuisine – Chef Martin Miguel who joined the culinary team just a month prior.
Our dining experience began with an appetising variety of dishes: tender and flavourful boneless chicken wings, the night’s standout – Wagyu beef sliders, and a refreshing burrata and rocket leaves flatbread, all of which were quickly consumed, leaving behind spotless plates.
Chef Martin swiftly followed up with another savoury lineup of dishes, featuring skewers of beef and chicken anticuchos – a popular street food from South America, particularly Peru, known for its rich, smoky flavour and tender meat, served with baby potatoes and corn. This was paired with a personal favourite, the Tropicana Rolls with crispy prawns, and a large piece of baby chicken.
Then it was time for dessert. Chef Martin presented us with a creamy Tres Leches cake topped with strawberries and blueberries. Although it was a typical workday, the atmosphere at Tropicana 360 was particularly vibrant, especially since it was their Hola Bonita ladies’ night, where ladies are treated to three complimentary drinks between 8 pm and 11 pm. If it hadn’t been a weekday, I would have been tempted to stay longer.
Tropicana 360 welcomes guests daily from 5 pm –2 am, and also offers a special Friday Brunch from 1 pm – 4:30 pm. Explore their menu by clicking here. For bookings, you can call or WhatsApp +974 3082 0469
marhaba eats out...
The Asian Kitchen, InterContinental Doha The City
Rolling Into the Week with a Sushi Buffet
Author: Ayen Molina
It was Sushi Night at The Asian Kitchen, and we came prepared – hungry, to be more precise. This was no ordinary sushi event, as they introduced a corner where you could request sushi to be made right in front of your eyes.
As a long-time resident of Doha, I remember this whole floor at InterContinental Doha The City being
referred to as The Square, but this has now been renamed Asian Kitchen Doha, also known as TAK Doha.
The spread offered a wide range of options, from traditional rolls to creative combinations. The chef skilfully crafted various types of sushi, using fresh and high-quality ingredients.
For our first round, we had delicacies like scallop, tuna, salmon and roe, along with smoked mackerel delighting our palates.
For our next round, we headed to the salad station where my Southeast Asian heart jumped when I saw a few of my favourite Japanese goodies: lightly salted edamame, softshell crab with pomelo, wakame or seaweed salad, and crab salad.
Moving on, we made our way to the miso soup station for a serving of this comforting, savoury broth loaded with seaweed and soft tofu.
For my next plate, I sampled their maki rolls and poke bowls, all bursting with flavours, and an innovative creation caught our eye: the Sushi Burger, fresh and satisfying. It was a unique and delightful twist on traditional sushi.
And then it was time for dessert! The spread offered fresh tropical fruits like passion fruit, rambutan, dragon fruit, and more, plus mango sago and matcha roll. The dessert section was a sweet finale to our sushi feast, with its refreshing flavours and hints of exotic fruits.
Indulge in TAK Doha’s sushi madness during Roll N Monday, available from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm for
QAR175 per person, soft beverages included. Amp up your dining experience with a special beverage selection for an additional QAR150 or QAR195.
marhaba eats out...
Bebabel, The St. Regis Doha
Savouring Tradition with Bebabel’s Monday Mezza Night
Author: Ayen Molina
Mezza, the heart of Lebanese culinary tradition, presents a delightful variety of small plates that are perfect as starters or combined to create a complete meal. Bebabel’s Monday Mezza Night is an ideal occasion for a light and satisfying evening of dining, offering guests a medley of flavours without the weight of a full-course meal.
Celebrated for its Lebanese fare, Bebabel enhances the experience with its sophisticated ambience within the luxurious surroundings of The St. Regis Doha.
As we stepped into the restaurant, welcoming hosts promptly showed us to our seats. The ambience was inviting, with soft lighting and contemporary decor. To accommodate different preferences, the restaurant offers designated non-smoking and smoking sections – including a space for those who like to indulge in shisha during their meal.
After being seated, we were promptly served cold water along with a platter of hummus and chips. We chose a trio of hot appetisers and another trio of cold ones; to our delight, the service from Yuwan and Hela was swift and the dishes quickly arrived at our table. The spread included hummus with pesto, vine leaves, eggplant moussaka, tomato kafta with hummus, eggplant fatteh, and crispy cheese rolls.
Even with the array of appetisers satisfying these foodies’ palates, we ventured on to the main course, choosing grilled meat that was both tender and flavourful. This addition to our meal perfectly complemented the earlier dishes and added a Mediterranean touch to the overall dining experience. Bebabel’s Monday Mezza Night is available every Monday from 7 pm to midnight.
For more information and reservations, please call 4446 0220.
marhaba eats out...
The St. Regis Doha
Rivaaj Night Brunch:
Savouring Heritage
Indian Cuisine on a Thursday Night
Author: Marrian Magtira
If you love to visit West Bay, you’re likely familiar with the stunning five-star beach hotel that boasts an ancient architecture and a magnificent landscape-- The St. Regis Doha. This scenic hotel is also a home to diverse restaurant destinations that offer every guest a remarkable culinary experience, including their Indian restaurant – Rivaaj.
Rivaaj Restaurant is a nice place to visit if you’re looking for a night-out dinner either with family or
friends. The venue is adorned with traditional artworks and patterns that solely reflect the cultural heritage of India and the soft lighting contributes to the warm and cosy atmosphere that adds to the overall ambience of the restaurant. Not only that, but the live entertainment will also catch every guest’s attention as the singer transports diners to another place and time – creating an authentic Indian ambience.
Upon arrival, we were promptly welcomed and shown to our table. The staff were very welcoming and accommodating as they offered us a drink shortly after we settled in.
The Thursday Night Brunch offers a family-style sharing menu that is served on the table, and guests can enjoy as much as they want. Their menu has a diverse variety – they’ve got seafood, poultry, lamb, greens, and they serve palate twisters from time to time!
Our dining experience began with their starters, featuring a leafy salad bowl and masala papad accompanied by peanuts and chutneys. Masala papad is a delightful appetiser widely renowned in India, served either as a starter or as an accompaniment to meals. Its crunchy texture and spicy kick, paired with nuts, make it an exceptional appetiser that tantalises our taste buds, preparing us to enjoy their main courses.
Alongside the salad and masala papad, they also served tiger prawns, hamour tikka, tandoori lobster and chicken, jungle makhan roast, lamb chops, and Kashmiri seekh kebab. Overwhelmed by the array
of dishes in front of us, we savoured and tasted each one. Our top picks were the tandoori lobster, which boasted a rich taste with a blend of buttery and limey flavours, and the tandoori chicken, which featured a creamy, chili-mustard-yogurt sauce and was perfectly tender.
Shortly after enjoying their wide selection of starters, they offered us poori shots as a palate twister before delving into the main courses.
The classic Ambassari butter chicken, alongside the prawns and spotted grouper, was served with buttered naan – and the combination? Exceptional! The naan complemented the main dishes ideally, and they are best enjoyed together, as they balance each other’s flavours. A biryani pot with lamb shanks was also served and savouring all the main dishes while enjoying our Berrytini and Lychee Garden drinks was a delightful pairing.
As the dining experience unfolded, we were presented with a sorbet as a palate cleanser, served alongside their desserts. The sorbet features a refreshing lime flavour and serves as a great palate cleanser after indulging in rich and savoury dishes. For dessert, we were treated to kullad chai and kulfi & jamuns. The kulfi & jamuns is Rivaaj’s signature house-made ice cream, and to be honest – it is one of the best among all that they have served!
If you’re looking to unwind on a Thursday night with great food and a pleasant atmosphere, Rivaaj is an ideal destination. With its family-style sharing menu, you can enjoy a delightful evening with your loved ones, accompanied by live entertainment and authentic heritage Indian cuisine.
Thursday Night Brunch at Rivaaj Thursdays, 6 pm onwards
• Family-style sharing menu: QAR175 per person
• Family-style sharing menu with enhanced beverages: QAR350 per person
• Add on lobster package: QAR75 per person
For reservations, call 4424 4856 or WhatsApp +974 5053 4103 m
marhaba eats out...
Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha
Journey Through Culinary History: Exploring the Authentic Flavours of Qureshi Bukhara
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
Tonight’s journey is particularly unique as we venture to Qureshi Bukhara, where we’re transported through the history of the restaurant. Situated within Dusit Hotel & SuitesDoha in Westbay, amid Doha’s bustling business district.
Bringing one of India’s renowned dining experiences to Doha, Qureshi Bukhara captures the essence of the rugged northwest frontier of India with its authentic cuisine and ambience. If you seek a cosy and intimate
atmosphere with dim lighting, this restaurant is a definite must-visit for you to explore.
Founded in 1978, Qureshi Bukhara is renowned in New Delhi, India, and is cherished as one of Uzbekistan’s gems, steeped in history and striking architecture. The restaurant’s rugged stone walls and rustic furniture reflect the authentic roots of its cuisine. Qureshi Bukhara captures the essence of traditional clay oven cooking, offering a delectable menu of succulent tandoor-cooked kebabs, chicken, lamb, vegetables, and bread.
We had the pleasure of meeting Chef Mohammad Ifran Qureshi, the Chef de Cuisine at Qureshi Bukhara Doha, who is the son of Chef Imtiaz Qureshi. According to Chef Ifran, it took five to six years of experimentation and market study, highlighting the meticulous dedication and commitment that define Qureshi Bukhara’s approach to culinary excellence.
Did you know that the cuisine here predominantly reflects the lifestyle of warriors? During the time of Genghis Khan, there was limited vegetation, so the focus was more on hunting, which they innovatively adapted. A lot of careful consideration and effort has gone into crafting the menu, with great attention to detail.
Our meal for tonight was divided into two kinds, which were Bukhara and Dumpukht. We started to dig in, and the first thing we tried was the pappadam; it was delightfully crispy with just the right balance of spices, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Next, we were served their Qureshi Bukhara Naan. Featuring perfectly baked bread with a soft, fluffy
interior and a crispy, golden exterior, it provides the ideal accompaniment to any dish with its irresistible flavour and texture, and given its generous size, it’s excellent for sharing among friends and family members.
Moving forward, the Butter Chicken was a symphony of rich, creamy flavours with tender, succulent chicken, making it an absolute must-try for any Indian cuisine enthusiast.
As we went along, we tried their unique style of Murgh Yakhani Biryani; yakhni refers to stock or broth of beef, chicken, lamb, or mutton. The chicken biryani is served in a pot covered with a dough crust at the top that offers a flavoursome combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice within. The server assists in unveiling the chicken biryani by delicately cutting it open from the side. Each biryani is individually meticulously prepared and cooked over charcoal, making it an extra-special dish.
We learned from Chef Ifran that these kinds of dishes involve slow-roasting food over a low fire in a sealed pot, known as a ‘dum’ and ‘pukht’ which means ‘to breathe and to cook’. In this cooking method, meat slowly roasts and braises in its own juices inside the pot, which is sealed with a dough crust, and herbs are intensified, adding layers to the final dish.
Next is the Tandoori Jhinga, jhinga meaning prawns. This dish is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, ajwain (carom seeds), red chillies, turmeric, and garam masala, then skewered and roasted over a charcoal fire, served with lemon wedges. It was a sheer delight, with every bite offering a harmonious blend of smoky char and tender juiciness. A dish worth trying!
Moving forward, we tried their Murgh Peshwari Tikka. If you’re wondering what is murgh, it is the Persian word used in Indian cooking, meaning chicken. Our Murgh Peshwari Tikka features succulent pieces of chicken that have been marinated and grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, flavoursome bites that melt in
your mouth, leaving a memorable impression on the taste buds; undoubtedly, it stands out as one of our preferred dishes.
Then, we indulged in their Murgh Malai Kabab, which incorporates malai, a rich clotted cream from the Indian subcontinent, into a creamy blend of boneless chicken, cream cheese, malt vinegar, and fresh coriander, all grilled to perfection in a moderate tandoor. It soon became another favourite, giving a melt-in-your-mouth experience that left a lasting impression and satisfied our palates with flavours we simply couldn’t resist.
For our sweet finale, we shared Shahed E Jaam, a generous gulab jamun (fried dumpling) filled with pistachio and almond, delicately dipped in saffron honey syrup; Rasmalai, featuring miniature poached dumplings of fresh cottage cheese in a saffronflavoured reduced milk sauce; and Phirni, a light delight of milk set with ground basmati rice, infused with cardamom, and adorned with pistachio and almond toppings. These treats elevate your dining experience to a whole new level of sweetness.
Qureshi Bukhara is more than just a dining experience; it’s a journey through history, flavours, and culinary craftsmanship. With each dish individually prepared and infused with tradition, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become famous among Indian cuisine enthusiasts. You can feel the love and dedication put into the food, evident in its distinctive flavours, warm hospitality, and rich historical roots, making it one of the finest Indian restaurants I’ve experienced and certainly a place I intend to revisit soon.
Qureshi Bukhara can be found on the first floor of Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha, welcoming guests from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) between 1 pm and 11 pm.
For reservations, WhatsApp 3070 1295, or email dining.dusitdoha@dusit.com m
marhaba eats out...
Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Musheireb
NH44 at Qalamkarri:
Rich Flavours from North to South
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
Located on the 25th floor of the Banyan Tree
Doha at La Cigale Musheireb, is where we are heading for an evening out. This spot is an oasis for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. There’s more to discover as we go along!
To start with, Qalamkarri is such a unique and beautiful name for a restaurant, so I had to do some research on it. It is a type of handpainted or block-printed cotton textile produced in southern India. Centuries ago, this form of painting was used as a form of storytelling by folk singers and painters travelling between villages.
As an interesting fact, the Friday dinner had a theme that revolved around NH44, representing the National Highway 44 found in India. This highway is a significant north-to-south route in India and holds the record as the longest national highway in the country. Wow!
Our night at Qalamkarri started with appreciating the beauty of the place and how well it was put together to bring out the best cuisines all over India. A skilled musician enchants the dinner with the soulful melodies of a bansuri, adding a captivating and melodic touch to the ambience.
If some of these dishes are unfamiliar to you, there’s no need to worry. The chefs and servers are available to assist and guide you through each dish. Each section has a live station, ensuring that you’re served freshly prepared food.
Initially, we tried their Paaya, a traditional South Asian dish crafted from trotters (typically goat or lamb feet) slow-cooked with spices, creating a hearty and flavoursome broth ideal for chilly weather.
Of course, we cannot pass on the chicken biryani, which became a favourite. The chicken biryani captivates the palate with its aromatic basmati rice, tender chicken, and harmonious blend of
spices, delivering a deliciously satisfying and richly flavoursome dining delight.
Moving on, being a samoosa fan, we definitely must try their Keema Samosa, a well-known Indian snack featuring a filling of spiced minced meat, or ‘keema,’ which pleased us with its balanced texture, neither dry nor oily. Their Paniyaram is a must-try as well.
We also get to try out their Aloo Paratha which originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a popular and traditional dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in North India, where wheat is a staple grain. It has become a popular dish in Indian cuisine, known for its spiced mashed potato filling and crispy wheat bread that will make you come back for more.
Continuing with our evening, we tried their Amristari Fish, a popular North Indian dish originating from Amritsar, known for its spicy and flavoursome deepfried fish, which left a lasting impression.
comfort food, while the Pani Puri provides a burst of freshness in each bite-sized portion, inviting guests to savour the essence of these culinary delights.
To end the night, the guests can enjoy the desserts that are placed near the entrance. Gulab Jamun, a classic Indian dessert, is a sweet confectionary dessert. soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. They also have Khubani Ka Meetha which is made with dry apricot, fresh cream, and nuts, and Sabudana Payasam, which is made with tapioca pearls, milk, cardamom, cashews, and raisins.
Exploring the extensive variety of Indian cuisines is a delightful experience, and it’s truly wonderful that we have the opportunity to savour diverse dishes all in a single location, at Qalamkarri.
The NH44 at the Qalamkarri Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Musheireb is priced at QAR175 per person, and each guest gets to enjoy a three-course menu every Friday from 7 pm to 11 pm.
Dal Makhani defines both comfort and indulgence, offering a perfect balance of spices and a satisfying taste. This delightful encounter raises the standard of m
For reservations, call 4410 3310 or WhatsApp +974 3992 0808
marhaba eats out...
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
Sea-Licious Night
at The Beach Restaurant
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
The weather is ideal for a dinner night out, and we’re heading to check out The Beach Restaurant at the Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, GHM Hotels’ first property in Qatar, to try out their Sea-Licious Night offer.
The beachfront restaurant is nestled in the heart of Katara Cultural Village, an architectural marvel draped in opulence and artisanal flare. Paired with the enchanting sea view, the ambience is further elevated.
Prepare to be impressed upon entering the restaurant and strolling along the pathway that leads to The Beach Restaurant, where live music and a stunning vista of the Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort await. With the Arabian Sea as our backdrop, our culinary journey unfolds at a place where we are welcomed to a dining experience that seamlessly blends the beauty of the seascape with the richness of ocean-inspired flavours.
The menu unfolds with a diverse range, from an array of bread options to the delightful babaganoush, a savoury pairing of aubergine with shrimp salad, and the refreshing mixed seafood salad. The crispiness of the yumai that showcases fried fish and calamari salad adds a delightful touch. The Beach Restaurant goes beyond seafood, offering a tempting selection of cold cuts and cheeses.
For seafood enthusiasts, it’s a place where you’re sure to satisfy your cravings. The buffet selection presents an extensive range of international seafood options, including both raw and cooked dishes spanning appetisers, soups, and main courses, ensuring your desire for fresh shrimp, oysters, mussels, prawns, and others, all served fresh.
As our evening unfolds, we’re presented with an extensive selection of seafood, ranging from fresh catch and delights to a vast array of sushi options, including cucumber maki, avocado and togarashi, and salmon avocado Diners get to enjoy a platter of oysters, mussels, and shrimp as well.
The standout highlight of the meal was the snow crab, marking my initial encounter with this crustacean,
from the fascinating sight of its distinctive structure to the enjoyable flavour of its tender meat.
On the opposite side of the restaurant, a live cooking station is available for pasta and seafood, should you wish to choose your dish and have it cooked according to how you want it. If you prefer to select your dish and have it prepared to your preferences, make sure not to overlook the ‘fresh catch’ section.
An extensive selection of desserts awaits, including chocolate fondue, assorted fruits, chocolate cake, chocolate and walnut tart, hazelnut panna cotta, trio of chocolate mousses, yuzu and passion meringue tart, and Parisian flan, all of which were thoroughly enjoyed by us.
The overall dining experience at The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort ensures a memorable retreat, providing a splendid getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Sea-Licious Night at The Beach Restaurant in The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort is available every Wednesday from 7 pm to 10:30 pm and is priced at QAR295 per person. They are also available on My Book, Entertainer, and Urban Points.
For enquiries or reservations, call +974 4144 7777 m
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Mondrian Doha
Rolls & Ramen Night
at Morimoto
Author: Weslee Dizon
Revisiting Morimoto in Mondrian Doha is akin to entering a space that has become comfortably familiar. It’s like returning to a spot that holds a unique sense of ease and recognition, where the ambience and experience have become distinctly known to us over time.
The restaurant has this stylish, dimly lit ambiance, with a live DJ adding a modern touch. As you step in, a sleek bar sets the tone, leading to the intriguing open kitchen of the Ramen Bar. Couches, tables, and chairs are casually arranged around a striking chandelier, creating cosy nooks.
The place is consistently abuzz with a diverse crowd—locals, and tourists—all drawn in for that unmistakable and authentic Japanese experience that Morimoto consistently delivers. This time, we swung by for their Tuesday Rolls and Ramen night.
Morimoto, the first venture by Chef Morimoto in the Middle East, is really something special. The Rolls & Ramen night comes in at a price of QAR210 per person, presenting a value-packed opportunity every Tuesday from 6 pm to 10 pm.
Wondering what’s on the menu? To kick things off, we indulged in a classic yet impeccably executed starter—Edamame, seasoned with Morimoto’s signature touch of Maldon salt or chili & garlic sauce.
Now, let’s talk Rolls. Brace yourself for a culinary adventure because you’re treated to a whopping 16 pieces, and each one is a winner. Whether it’s the upscale Salmon & Truffle, the fiery Spicy Shrimp Tempura, or the comforting Chicken Katsu, get ready for a flavourful journey.
Funny thing is, we initially thought 16 pieces might be a bit much, but before we knew it, we found ourselves enthusiastically devouring every last roll. And we still had room to dive into the ramen and dessert.
The Ramen selection threw us into a delightful noodle conundrum. Should we savoUr the goodness of the Chicken Ramen, featuring cha-su chicken, aji-tama, and bok choy, or take a plunge into the world of Seafood Ramen, boasting king prawn, mussels, and shiitake mushrooms? Then there’s the alluring Wagyu
Ramen with flank steak, sweet potato, and bean sprouts, not to forget the Vegan Ramen with fried tofu, Asian veggies, and miso. Decisions, decisions.
In the end, we opted for both the Seafood and Wagyu Ramen. And it turned out to be a fantastic decision. Finally, the grand finale—the Desserts. White Chocolate Semi-Freddo with strawberry, meringue, and shiso? Chocolate Tart with matcha ice cream and macerated raspberries? Or the exotic Passion Colada with coconut cake, mango sorbet, and passion fruit? It’s a sweet dilemma.
Morimoto always delivers. The atmosphere is just right, the service is on point, and the food? It’s like a mini culinary vacation. We’re already counting the days until our next visit.
Give them a ring at +974 4045 5999 and make your Tuesdays a celebration with Rolls and Ramen—it’s an experience worth repeating! m
Aleph Doha ResidencesCurio Collection by Hilton
Diving into a Sea of Flavours at IKA’s Seafood Night
Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
S marhaba eats out...
outh American cuisine is celebrated for its delightful flavours, firmly establishing itself as a top contender for the world’s best. Each region boasts unique traditional dishes that contribute to the rise of gastronomic tourism. Among these culinary gems, Ica, Peru, stands out with its iconic South American fare.
The good news is you don’t have to jet off to Peru just yet to experience the authentic delights of Peruvian seafood cuisine. Enter IKA South American, located in Aleph Doha Residences – Curio Collection by Hilton, bringing the vibrant essence of Peru directly to your doorstep.
Our recent visit to the restaurant unfolded during their seafood night, presenting an irresistible three-course meal— IKA-KASE, Appetizer, and Main Course— accompanied by an impressive array of beverages. The drink selection featured soft drinks, mocktails, beers, house wines, sake, and spirits with mixers.
We began with two vibrant mocktails—Berry Delight, a balance of sweet and sour in a deep purple hue— and the refreshing Fizzy Ginger, which were quite interesting.
Then, the Tiradito Carretillero for our IKA-KASE— a must-try Peruvian dish featuring thinly sliced raw fish served with sweet potato, chulpi corn, pickled onion, avocado, olive oil, and tiger milk, boasting a fusion of flavours and textures.
The Hotate Truffle Nigiri came after: King scallops, shari, truffle butter, and tobiko, which won us over with its rich flavours and became an early favourite. The Mussels A La Chalaca, a classic Peruvian dish blending mussel flavours with vibrant ingredients, was equally harmonious and delightful.
If you’re a raw fish enthusiast, this next dish will have you singing ‘Under the Sea’. The freshness of Norwegian Salmon shines through with its buttery texture, delicate flavour, and moist flesh, beautifully complemented by the richness of avocado.
The Spicy Tuna Roll’s flavourful kick, on the other hand, invites another bite, complemented by creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and seasoned rice, crafting a well-balanced and flavorful sushi roll with a spicy edge. Our culinary journey extended to “Piqueos calientes”, a common term in South American cuisine, particularly in Peru. We savoured a soft street fish taco with corn coleslaw, avocado, and an exceptional lime sauce that made an impression. We also indulged in crispy yet tender inside shrimp tempura paired with jalapeno and acevichado flavours. And that was just the appetisers.
Moving on to the “Principales” or main course, we were served Miso-Mirasol Cod, a dish comprising Miso, Mirasol chilli, honey, codfish, and Peruvian-style fried rice. Additionally, there was Jalea Mixta which is a popular Peruvian dish consisting of crispy mixed seafood, typically including a variety of seafood such as fish, shrimp, calamari, and sometimes octopus or other shellfish served with tartar sauce, yuca, and lime.
Anna, the hotel’s Marketing & PR Cluster Director, surprised us with their renowned Alfajores. These delightful treats are filled with dulce de leche and coated in shredded coconut.
Considering the exceptional food, service, and ambience, it’s a great choice for a special celebration or an unforgettable dining experience. IKA Restaurant stands out as a top destination for seafood aficionados seeking refined dining. Vamos a comer!
Seafood Night at Aleph Doha Residences – Curio Collection by Hilton is from 7 pm to 10 pm every Wednesday priced at QAR249 including soft beverages or QAR359 including House Beverages.
For reservations or enquiries, please call +974 3359 3043. m
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Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
Autumn Pairing Menu at The Italian Job
Author: Terry Sutcliffe
Over 2,200 people eat, drink and indulge their appetites every day at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. That’s on average, of course, but with 14 diverse restaurants and bars in the property, whatever your food tastes and cuisine preferences, you will find the perfect place to relax and restore your feeling of well-being.
For a long time now, The Italian Job has been one the best places in Qatar to find and enjoy good, honestto-goodness Italian dishes. You can say words like traditional, simple or classic but it’s just like homecooking: you know it’s fresh, you know it’s good and made by people who care.
The Italian Job’s name is a tribute to a famous film which had a fantastic car chase and a literally cliff-hanging finish. Now, on Tuesday evenings in The Italian Job, you can enjoy a leisurely, unhurried progression through three courses of delightful dishes and are guaranteed a finale of satisfied fulfilment.
Every course gives you a selection of three or four dishes. We started with a choice of four salads; the fresh ‘summer’ and seasonal green salads looks appetising, as did the grilled vegetable salad with peppers, eggplant and mushrooms, but given The Italian Job’s stellar reputation with seafood – years ago we used to come here every Thursday night for their Insalata di Mare and a glass or two of Italian white –we unanimously went straight for the Seafood Salad.
And what a feast! Paired with the specially made cocktail, the salad was absolutely scrumptious; together with the bread (ask for more of the big bread!) and delicious dips you have to be careful not to fill up too much! My goodness, the shrimps, the hammour, the scallops and mussels, the fabulous fresh bread and dips, the sparkling cocktail paired with this course all made this almost a meal in itself – full enjoyment in one course! The sublime texture of the seafood and the minty freshness of the salad, well, it seemed everything was either hauled straight in from the sea, newly harvested from the fields, or, like the bread, pulled straight from the oven.
The so-called main course now beckoned, and it looks really good… We skipped the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Spaghetti and opted for the Grilled Angus Steak and, in my case, the Shrimps and Lobster
Creamy Cheese Basket. The former because “I’ve never had a bad piece of meat in all my years coming here” and the latter because I’m in thrall at this restaurant’s expertise with seafood (and sauces!).
Our hope and/or certainty were justified. The meat was mouth-watering and its sauce succulent. The creamy shrimps and lobster were sublime and in contrast to the cheese basket which was crunchy but no less tasty – a nice surprise! These dishes were paired with a glass of either white or red Italian, both smooth and very suitable.
These dishes were not only excellent to taste but lovely to look at, too. The Italian Job chefs are top notch, professional experts both in preparation and presentation. And to prove the point, the desserts –our third course – were absolutely lovely to look at, artistic even, and also delicious to devour, as was the Espresso Martini to drink.
Those professional staff were observable in the open kitchen. The waiters were helpful but not overattentive. The singing waiter had an excellent voice and sang a wonderful international selection of everyone’s favourite tunes.
The Autumn Pairing Menu is available every Tuesday from 6 pm to 11 pm, and is priced at QAR175 per person.
The Italian Job also offers another not-to-miss experience every Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm, the Sardinian Sunsets, featuring a three-course menu with soft beverages for only QAR120 per person, and additional QAR175 per person for special beverages.
For reservations or enquiries, please call 4428 1555 m
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Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
Ladies Night at Sakura
Author: Patrisha Manzon-Barnole
For lovers of Japanese cuisine in Doha, Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar at Radisson Blu Hotel Doha is one of the go-to places. Located in the West Wing of the hotel, this eatery effortlessly transports diners to Japan while firmly anchored in the heart of Doha.
Our recent visit to Sakura was an exploration of their Ladies’ Night, a culinary voyage priced at QAR99 per guest, which includes a meticulously curated set menu spanning appetisers to desserts, accompanied by refreshing soft beverages.
Remaining faithful to its Japanese heritage, Sakura commenced our evening with oshibori, the customary Japanese ritual of presenting hot towels before a meal. Although not part of the set menu, we couldn’t
resist indulging in a bowl of Miso Shiru, a traditional soybean soup boasting a profound, savoury essence with hints of toasty, saltysweet richness.
Beyond the confines of the set menu, an enticing à la carte menu selection is also available. The fried shrimp tempura, with its tender yet crispy texture, quickly ascended to a favoured status.
A standout on the menu was the Special Chef’s Maki, a symphony of deep-fried shrimp, tanuki crab, mango, and crunchy flakes enveloped in a roll, crowned with a delectably sweet sauce—a must-try delight that tantalises the taste buds.
Now, onto the appetisers included in their Ladies Night promo, we had cucumber sushi rolls, also known as Kappa Maki, California sushi, salmon sashimi, and a mixed yakitori glazed in a savoury-sweet sauce.
As the evening unfolded, the Teppanyaki performance by Chef Engelbert took center stage, transforming our dining experience into a mesmerising spectacle. With a genuine smile and masterful techniques, he orchestrated a symphony of spatulas, flames, and sizzling grills, elevating the culinary journey.
The high-quality and authentic Japanese cuisine entrée featured stir-fried vegetables, fresh salmon, savoury chicken and shrimp, a perfectly cooked medium-well Sirloin, and a flavourful bowl of fried rice. Among these, the shrimp and sirloin beef emerged as the best.
By now, we were beyond stuffed, but we surely left some room for the dessert platter, bursting with colours and flavours we couldn’t pass up!
Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar not only dazzles with its culinary prowess but also shines in its service. Raquel’s unwavering commitment to ensuring our dining pleasure elevated the experience.
This establishment seamlessly blends authenticity with affordability, each dish and moment proving its worth. Itadakimasu!
If you’re up for other ongoing promotions, here are some options you can consider trying out:
Family Night
Kid’z Bento Menu
Offer: A la carte menu for adults; kids can indulge in a bento box ( starts from QAR49 per kid)
Offer: Surf & Turf at Sakura for the weekend and experience the new buffet with a live cooking teppanyaki show.
QAR109- buffet with soft beverages (unlimited mineral water, soft drinks and chilled juice)
Add-on: special beverages at an additional QAR175 per head for three hours only
Offer timing: every Friday 7 pm – 10 pm (closed on Sundays)
Sake Tasting & Pairing Menu
Offer: QAR150 —three-course set menu with three special beverages
Offer timing: every Monday, 6 pm – 11 pm (closed on Sundays)
For reservations or enquiries, please call +974 4428 1555 m
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W Doha Hotel & Residences
Spice Market Unveils New Sushi Bar Lounge Concept
Author: Ayen Molina
We had the opportunity to be invited to one of our all-time favourite contemporary Asian fusion restaurants, Spice Market, in W Doha Hotel & Residences.
Spice Market has introduced a new sushi bar lounge concept. It offers a unique dining experience where you can watch Sushi Chef Didi prepares a variety of sushi, right before your eyes. The concept aims to provide diners with both culinary delight and entertainment.
Our dining adventure began with a trio of spicy yuzu edamame, baked oyster, and salmon teriyaki - each dish providing its own unique play of flavours.
A second wave of Japanese cuisine arrived, presenting us with scallop ceviche and toro tartar complemented with the luxury of Beluga caviar - a true celebration of culinary sophistication.
Next, we moved onto the specialty rolls including a truffle teriyaki octopus maki and a salmon teriyaki maki.
And for the grand finale, we were served a large platter of omakase, entrusting our culinary journey in the hands of Chef Didi. This platter included a flavourful kani salad and an assortment of various rolls comprising of salmon, shrimp and tuna.
Our dining experience was rounded off with sweet delights that underlined the finesse of Japanese dessert -making, dream fall matcha tiramisu and Japanese cheesecake.
The experience was made even better with live entertainment, making the lively lounge atmosphere even more enjoyable.
Spice Market’s new sushi bar lounge concept is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual lunches and romantic dinners to social gatherings, offering an elevated and sophisticated sushi experience in the heart of Doha.
The recently introduced concept at Spice Market is available for both lunch and dinner daily.
For reservations or more information, please call 4453 5135 or send a WhatsApp message to +974 7794 3975.
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InterContinental
Doha The City
Seafood Paradise at The Square
Author: Maria Anicas
Walking into The Square at InterContinental
Doha The City on a Thursday night feels like diving into a sea of delicious options. Seafood Night at this classy spot is a seafood lover’s dream and the perfect start to a fantastic weekend. The first thing I noticed upon entering the restaurant was the impressive, wide spread of dishes on offer. There was a lot that I didn’t even know where to begin. But let’s start with a bang – the oysters and cold cuts bar. All so fresh, it’s like dipping your tongue in the heart of the sea. There were also tasty sushi rolls and fine cuts of salmon and tuna sashimi.
The salad station offers unique seafood surprises. The Octopus Salad, Shrimp Fattoush, and Shrimp
Coleslaw redefine what salads can be, adding a fresh and exciting twist. If you like doing things your way, the salad bar lets you create your own salad masterpiece.
The aroma of freshly baked bread welcomes you to the next station, accompanied by two comforting kinds of soup: the rich Potato & Shrimp Veloutte and the zesty Seafood Tom Yum.
Another exciting (and perhaps my favourite) highlight of the night is the ‘deep fried’ station! The calamari, anchovies, shrimps, and fish and chips were all so crunchy – it’s like playing sound effects with every bite!
Now, let’s dive into the main courses. Picture this: Seafood Pumpkin Mac & Cheese, a comforting blend of creamy goodness and oceanic flavours. The Fish Sayadieh, a Middle Eastern journey of spices and perfectly cooked fish. Then, there’s the Salmon Coulibiac, a culinary masterpiece with flaky pastry hugging succulent salmon.
For those craving richness, the Seafood Thermidore steals the show, wrapping various seafood in a decadent sauce. And of course, the grand finale –Seafood Paella, a vibrant mix of rice, saffron, and loads of seafood that brings the taste of Spain to your plate.
For those who prefer a personalised touch, the ‘fresh catch’ station allows you to pick your favourite fish, cooked to perfection – be it hammour, snapper, or mullet. The chefs will cook it up just right, making sure it’s exactly how you like it.
As the night winds down, get ready for a sweet treat at the dessert station. There’s a bit of everything— cakes, pies, churros, Umm Ali, and fresh fruits. It’s the perfect way to end your seafood feast on a sugary high note.
If you’re a seafood afficionado, The Square should be on your list of ‘places not to miss’. From the briny oysters to the flavourful main courses and the sweet finale of desserts, seafood nights will never be the same.
Seafood Night at The Square Thursdays, 6 pm – 10:30 pm
QAR255 per person including soft beverages
QAR381 per person including hops & cellar selection
For enquiries or reservations, please call +974 7021 8803 m
Located in a relatively quiet and leafy suburb of Doha, alongside the green spaces of Aspire Park, Maysan Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts combines the romanticism and mystique of a Middle Eastern prince’s palace transformed into a most luxurious hospitable abode with a warm and welcoming boutique ambience.
La Casa is a magnificent room, large enough for business gatherings or family celebrations, but also generating a warm atmosphere suitable for a tête-åtête or intimate dinner among a few friends. Come
with your best friend, your family or the whole company, they’ll all be equally impressed.
The menu is inviting and tempting with a wide choice of starters and salads. But first we were treated to an amusebouche of olive paste and accompaniments of olives, parmesan cheese and freshly baked bread rolls and sticks.
Before the starters, we were treated to the sight of a most tempting trolley being wheeled in front of our expectant eyes. Indeed, these beautifully presented prime cuts of rib eye and tenderloin beef, veal, lamb, baby lamb and brisket beef chosen for our main course lingered on in our mind’s eye even as we enjoyed the ouverture starters.
There is no particular geographic area promoted here; rather the emphasis is on diversity and the quality of the individual dish. There are items from the Far East, the Middle East, and South America. It mirrors somewhat the successful Qatar Airways, bringing the best from around the world to our hub here in Doha.
Hummus, well known to us in Qatar and indeed all around the Middle East and now the world, never tasted so good as when here paired with some real truffles. Each one of the half-dozen starters was uniquely tasty. I particularly went for the Shitake Mushrooms with Beef – creamy and delicious; others loved the freshness of the Asparagus Ceviche, and nobody turned down the wonderful Wagyu Beef Rolls. There are house, as well as special, drinks on offer, matching whatever your mood and choice of main dish.
On reaching the main course, the Baby Lamb Tenderloin was indeed young and tender and the consensus was that all the steaks and meats fully met expectations. These people certainly know how to prepare a joint, and especially when paired with your favourite sauce and choice of vegetables.
Dining at La Casa is in the top rank for experiences around Doha. With its diversified menu, live entertainment (did I mention the saxophonist?!) and friendly atmosphere, La Casa at Maysan Doha is hard to beat.
Steak Night at La Casa
Thursdays, 7 pm – 10 pm
QAR295 per person including soft beverages
QAR495 per person including enhanced beverages
For reservations, please call +974 5117 0922 m
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The Chedi, Katara Hotel & Resort
IAuthor: Terry Sutcliffe
t’s that time of the year – and The Chedi is ready!
When the sun is setting over Katara Cultural Village and The Chedi beautiful boutique hotel really reflects its true splendour, the time and temperature is now just right to satisfy all your senses in a flavourful evening under the stars, overlooking Doha Bay and serenaded by gentle live music. Within Katara Cultural Village, beyond Galeries Lafayette and the falcon Burqa, suddenly you come on
what seems like an opulent palace. We could be in Jaipur with this majestic outline and royal aura… But no, we are at The Chedi Katara, the beautiful boutique hotel which overlooks the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.
We’re at The Beach Restaurant where the air is cool, the lights are low, the soothing sounds from the live music men are easy on the ear, the mocktails are refreshing and stimulate the appetite. For even more stimulation, have a look at the spread which has been laid on for your delectation: there are salads galore, myriads of meat, a super selection of seafood.
Where to start. Even though you may want to straightaway sink your teeth into the succulent Australian beef, or the American ribeye, the juicy tenderloins, let’s hold back a little and enjoy the variety of unique starters that The Chedi Katara has prepared. How about octopus salad, or pumpkin and feta cheese salad, Greek salad or the traditional hummus, moutabal and fatoush combination. The flavourful variety of this wide selection includes chicken waldorf, chicken vermicelli soup, broccoli, eggplant, corn on the cob, penne spaghetti and a nod to Turf and Surf with some delicious slices of roast beef with the traditional horseradish, and some interesting green and black mussels, plus razor clams.
Such is the diversity and origin and freshness of the dishes laid out before us, I reckon by now we have satisfied the daily quota of every essential nutrient the body needs.
So, suitably fortified let’s get to the BBQ, which is, after all, the title of the event.
Super seafood includes big lobster tails and tiger prawns and the pure-protein ‘catch of the day’ and then The Chedi Katara goes one better with an even wider selection of meats, from tenderloin and striploin steaks, lamb chops, shish tawouk. They are all different but they all give you that same satisfied feeling and leave you in that satisfied state.
A special mention should be made for all the succulent sauces and dressings, including the beef jus that I enjoyed with my star of the show, the absolutely mouth-watering and melting-in-my-mouth Spanish baby whole lamb, which wasn’t ‘whole’ when i met it but was still wholly scrumptious.
Have you left enough space for the dessert because, again, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort has gone all out to dazzle you with its creativity: Paris - Brest with that hazelnut flavour, crème brulée with a touch of Yuzu, an interesting panacotta with pineapple and coconut, a trio of chocolate mousse, a selection of macaroons, an interesting take on New York-style cheesecake, the wonderfully named pistachio and vanilla financier, the opera gateau or just the simple selection of bonbons, and bonbons, as the French say, are doubly good.
Simple or complex, creatively conceived and expertly executed and all consumed with supreme pleasure.
BBQ Bonfire at The Beach Restaurant in The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort is available every Thursday from 7 pm – 10:30 pm and is priced at QAR190 per person.
For enquiries or reservations, please call +974 4144 7777. m
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Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
Lone Star Delights at Bywater
Author: Ayen Molina
If you’re a fan of smoky and tender ribs, juicy and flavourful brisket, or crave the bold flavours of Tex-Mex cuisine, a visit to Bywater will satisfy any craving for authentic Texas cuisine.
Texas BBQ at Bywater every Thursday, provides an opportunity to experience authentic Texas cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of Lusail City, Bywater in Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha provides a unique dining experience, enhanced by a stunning pool view.
Enhancing its unique Texas BBQ theme, the restaurant was adorned with cowboy aesthetics, visible in everything from the décor to the staff uniforms.
With the weather cooling down, we chose to sit outdoors to not only enjoy the picturesque pool view but also to be closer to the aroma wafting from the BBQ station.
We started with the salads, the buffet spread showcases an array of salad bars, ranging from classic cobb salad and potato salad to a make-yourown salad station. Favourites such as shepherd’s pie and mac & cheese were also included in the buffet spread.
The restaurant also features a variety of distinct live cooking stations - a station for crispy fries and flavourful nachos, pasta, a special short rib burger station, and a station dedicated to the Texan buttermilk crispy chicken. But most captivating is the grilling station, serving up lamb cutlets, flank steak, shrimp, and kebabs fresh off the grill.
A visit to Texas BBQ at Bywater, however, would not be complete without experiencing the star dishes - the barbequed meats. Brought to your table in a trolley, these delightful offerings range from tender and smoky prime rib racks to juicy, flavour-infused brisket. They are complimented with traditional Texas sides like baked beans and corn on the cob.
Let’s not forget the dessert. A Tex-Mex buffet wouldn’t be complete without some quintessential Texan desserts —pie and churros!
Whether it’s the hearty meat dishes cooked on live stations, the lavish buffet spread, or the warm, vibrant atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of reasons to ride back to Bywater’s slice of Texas in Doha. Yee-haw!
Texas BBQ is served every Thursday from 7 pm to midnight. It costs QAR220 per person, which includes soft drinks. There’s also a special a la carte menu for drinks starting at QAR35.
For enquiries or reservations, please call +974 4457 5777 or +974 4456 5772. m
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Park Hyatt Doha
Scenic Heights and Culinary Delights: Sora Sakana
Author: Weslee Dizon
Doha boasts one of the most remarkable skylines in the world, with neon lights illuminating the towering buildings from a distance, creating a captivating sight, especially at night.
One of the best ways to savour this spectacle is from the heights of one of Qatar’s finest hotels, Park Hyatt Doha, precisely at its Sora Restaurant, which literally translates to ‘sky’ in Japanese.
During a recent visit, we had the pleasure of exploring their new offering, the Sora Sakana dinner, a Maki and Robata night that takes place every Saturday.
Ideal for those seeking an intimate evening or a relaxed setting to relish the stunning skyline, Sora Sakana presents an enticing array of dishes that combine sushi and meats, all meticulously prepared with a deep respect for the artistry of Japanese cuisine.
Sora Sakana delivers a culinary experience that commences with appetisers such as edamame and yellow-tail with burnt clementine, featuring yuzu truffle soy and ocetra caviar.
Transitioning to the next course, the Baby Spinach Salad delights with its yuzu truffle dressing, miso dust, parmesan cheese, and pomegranate accents.
As the evening unfolds, the spotlight shifts to the speciality rolls, including the tantalising Deep Fry Kani Roll and the sophisticated Philadelphia Roll, each boasting a meticulous blend of flavours.
For a fulfilling main course, the Robata Platter takes centre stage, featuring offerings such as Chicken Yakitori, Wagyu M5 Beef Striploin, and Black Cod. These dishes are accompanied by imaginative sides like Cha-Han (Fried Rice), with a choice of beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetable.
Enhancing the dining experience is a selection of cocktails or mocktails, perfectly curated to complement the culinary journey.
To secure a seat at this culinary affair with a view, we highly recommend making a reservation in advance
by dialling +974 3158 7941. Immerse yourself in the seamless fusion of breathtaking scenery and gastronomic brilliance at Sora Sakana, where each dish narrates a tale of precision and culinary passion.
Sora Sakana Maki and Robata night Saturdays, 7 pm to 11 pm
Book your table ahead through +974 3158 7941 m
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InterContinental Doha The City
Butcher ‘N Roast Night
Author: Weslee Dizon
Having consumed so much meat for the past few days, I approached The Butcher ‘N Roast Night at The Square restaurant inside the Intercontinental Doha The City with some scepticism even if I consider myself a meat lover. However, curiosity got the better of me, and I couldn’t resist giving it a try to see what they had in store. The dinner was advertised as a ‘feast’ of international barbecue items, rotisserie, and an extensive selection of hot sides and salads, and I must say, it really felt like a feast. As we entered The Square, the vibrant and festive ambience was immediately felt. Chefs were bustling around preparing the spreads, while the sounds of lively chatter and background music filled the air. It was a delightful mixture of sights and sounds that set the perfect tone for the evening.
We were fortunate to be greeted by Head Chef Salim, who graciously offered us a tour of the entire restaurant before we committed ourselves to our plates and took our seats.
The spreads were undeniably extensive, starting with a delightful do-it-yourself salad station, showcasing various ingredients, sauces, and dressings at your disposal. For those who prefer ready-to-eat salads, they had you covered too. Adding to the diversity of the dining experience, there were an array of cold cuts, cheeses, breads, hummus, and dips as well.
However, the true highlight of the night was undoubtedly the meats! The selection was remarkable, featuring an impressive variety, including chicken, lamb, beef, shish kebabs, tawook, and more. Mouthwatering options such as prime ribs, coffeecrusted beef tenderloin, sausages, and slow-cooked lamb leg were also available. Additionally, guests could choose their desired meat and have it grilled at live stations, adding a touch of interactive excitement to the dining affair.
Even though I had been consuming steak for the past few days as I’ve mentioned, I couldn’t resist the temptation of the prime ribs and even went back for seconds. How juicy and tasty!
The side dishes and soups perfectly complemented the meats, offering a balance of flavours. Mashed potatoes, baked vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetable gratin were among the delightful accompaniments, and the sauces provided an extra layer of tastiness.
Chef Salim and his team made it a point to cater to everyone’s dietary preferences, ensuring that even with the focus on butcher and barbecue delights, there was something for everyone, including vegetarians.
For families with children, the options were just as delightful, with mini burgers and a live pizza station, promising a fun and enjoyable experience for the young ones.
Now, let’s talk about the desserts. The dessert station on the other end did not disappoint either. I highly recommend trying the Umm Ali and chocolate pudding – absolute delights!
The staff at The Square deserve special praise for their impressive service, particularly the supervisor Maria, who made our dining experience even more memorable.
Butcher Night takes place every Wednesday from 6 pm to 10:30 pm, and the pricing is QAR183 per person, including soft beverages, and QAR313 per person, including hops and cellar selection.
The restaurant offers semi-private seating and tables for larger groups, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for all.
In conclusion, the The Square’s Butcher ‘N Roast Night is something that you should try, offering an extensive and delicious spread of meats and accompaniments, along with outstanding service. Whether you’re a meat lover or have dietary restrictions, there’s something to savour and enjoy at this remarkable theme night.
Every Wednesday 6 pm – 10:30 pm
QAR183 includes soft drinks
QAR313 includes hops and cellar selection For reservations, call 7021 8803 m
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The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa
Hunters Room & Grill at The Westin Lives Up to its Reputation
Author: Weslee Dizon
Since its opening in 2016, Hunters Room & Grill inside The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa has proudly earned its place as one of the best steakhouses in Qatar. Boasting superb service, an elegant ambiance, and an unforgettable menu, this dining haven promises an amazing gastronomic journey for every discerning palate.
Upon our arrival, Ala, the restaurant manager, and Abel immediately made us feel right at home. While the setting inside the restaurant was fine dining, we opted to sit outside, creating a more relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of a garden oasis within the hotel.
Not long after, the rolling cart came with different cuts of meat presented to us, but our eyes were already set on their legendary Beef Tomahawk steak, a majestic 1.8 kg bone-in marbled ribeye that had earned its fame among Friday brunch-goers. We obviously placed an order for the Tomahawk, eager to experience its succulence for ourselves.
As we waited for our food, Sylvanas, the mixologist, arrived at our table with his rolling cocktail cart. His name, befittingly reminiscent of sweetness, matched his personality perfectly. We couldn’t resist his expertly crafted cocktails and eagerly watched as he worked his magic right before our eyes, creating delightful concoctions tailored to our preferences.
We didn’t have to wait long before our appetisers arrived. Going all-in on the meat tonight, we started with the Beef Tartare featuring charred avocado, wagyu beef tenderloin, chipotle aioli, crispy quinoa, and bread chips. The smoky flavours mingled perfectly with the tender beef, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Next up was the Beef Carpaccio, showcasing black Angus tenderloin rolled with wholegrain fig, mustard, enoki mushrooms, chipotle aioli, truffle oil, parmesan cheese, and rocket. Each bite was a burst of flavours!
Aside from these, Hunters Room & Grill also offers an assortment of other appetisers like nachos, mini burgers, chicken wings, prawn popcorns, and cheese tortillas—all ideal for sharing. Soup options were also available.
When the Tomahawk Steak finally graced our table, it was a sight to behold. Carved right at our table and served with three side dishes and sauces of our choice, the meat beckoned us to indulge. The first bite was a revelation—the tenderness, juiciness, and perfectly balanced seasoning came together in harmony, confirming the steak’s well-deserved reputation.
We partnered it with smoked creamy spinach, sweet potato fries, and mixed vegetables. Other options included triple-cooked fries, asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, mashed potatoes, French fries, and mac & cheese. As for the sauces, we chose Chimichurri as recommended by Ala, along with pepper and mushroom sauces. Additional options were cafe de paris, BBQ, Bearnaise, and Blue Cheese.
As the evening unfolded, we revelled in the relaxed yet elegant ambiance, enjoying the air-conditioned outdoor setting. We ended the night on a sweet note with desserts—cheesecake and ice cream—to cleanse the palate.
Overall, our dining experience at Hunters Room & Grill was a resounding validation of its reputation as one of
the best steakhouses in Qatar. From the impeccable service to the exquisite menu offerings, every aspect of the restaurant surpassed our expectations.
The Tomahawk steak is priced at QAR569 but is good for sharing and it comes with three side dishes and sauces of your choice.
Every Friday from 12:30 pm - 4 pm, Hunters hosts a Tomahawk Brunch, a family friendly brunch served with unlimited cold and hot tapas, along with live entertainment. The restaurant also features a kid’s play area.
Price:
QAR495 per person Soft Beverage Package
QAR695 per person House Beverage Package
QAR795 per person Premium Beverage Package
QAR200 per child from 10 to 12 years old
FREE for below 10 years old
The Entertainer vouchers are applicable on soft beverage package only
Marriott Bonvoy 20% discount applicable
Advance reservation required
They are also currently offering a Buy 1 Take 1 promo for their Tomahawk Brunch.
For more information and reservations, call 3359 8514. m
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town, Copper & Spice
A Seafood Spectacle: Copper & Spice’s Unforgettable Seafood Night
Author: Harvey Vippond
Nestled within the Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town, Copper & Spice has become a culinary gem, offering a seafood night that promises an unforgettable dining experience.
As a marine cuisine enthusiast, I had the privilege of savouring the delights of their underwater edible extravaganza. From the delectable appetiser and dessert buffet to the impressive seafood tower, Copper & Spice exceeded all expectations.
Tasteful ambience
Upon stepping into Copper & Spice, I was immediately captivated by the elegant and inviting ambience. The tastefully decorated restaurant exuded an air of sophistication, setting the stage for what was to be a remarkable seafood journey.
The Seafood Night commenced with a small appetiser buffet that showcased an array of flavours and textures. The appetisers were a tantalising assortment of seafood delicacies, ranging from succulent shrimp cocktails to fish spring rolls, all carefully prepared to highlight the natural taste of the ocean’s treasures. Each bite was a celebration of the sea, and I found myself sampling a bit of everything, savouring the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Following the appetisers, the main event took centre stage – the magnificent seafood tower. Rising tall and proud, the tower displayed an impressive selection of seafood delights. The first indulgence was the fried calamari, a perfect blend of crispiness and tenderness, paired perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce that added a burst of flavour.
The addition of whole prawns brought an element of elegance to the tower. Grilled to perfection, these succulent crustaceans required minimal effort to peel, rewarding us with their juicy, flavourful meat. The simplicity of preparation allowed the natural flavours of the prawns to shine, proving that sometimes less is truly more.
The crabs offered a delightful challenge, as we navigated through its shell to unveil the tender, sweet crab meat within. The effort was well worth it, as
the crab rewarded us with its delicious taste, a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
Considering the generous spread, the set menu price of QR190 was more than reasonable. Copper & Spice’s Seafood Night is a treat for fishy enthusiasts and anyone looking to embark on a gastronomic adventure.
As the dinner concluded, the dessert buffet beckoned with a delectable assortment of sweet treats. From rich chocolate desserts to the more traditional offerings of Umm Ali, the desserts provided a fitting end to our spectacular dinner.
In conclusion, Copper and Spice’s Seafood Night at the Embassy Suites is an exceptional culinary journey not to be missed.
The restaurant offers a memorable night of dining featuring the bounties of the ocean every Thursday night, from 6:30 pm until 10 pm. If you’re in the mood for something spicier, indulge in their Indian Nights every Friday, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm, when they offer a variety of authentic Indian dishes at an affordable QAR190 per person!
For reservations and enquiries, call 5106 2395, 5106 2088 m
Le Royal Méridien Doha
A Night in Bodrum at Yedi by Chef Esat
Author: Ayen Molina
O marhaba eats out...
n a recent visit to Le Royal Méridien Doha, we had the pleasure of experiencing a unique and exciting theme night at one of its restaurants, Yedi by Chef Esat. With its tasteful decor, Yedi exudes an atmosphere of elegance and comfort, creating an ideal setting for a memorable dining experience.
The theme for the evening was ‘A Night in Bodrum’, celebrating the rich and diverse flavours of the region. As a coastal city along the Aegean Sea, Bodrum’s cuisine is characterised by an abundance of fresh seafood, the use of olive oil, and a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
The night began with an array of mezzes, capturing the essence of Aegean cuisine. Cold appetisers included tangy fried eggplant (Shakshouka), charcoal-grilled broccolini served with yogurt sauce, sautéed pak choi with olive oil (Chibes), slow-cooked fava beans, smoked mackerel served with cucumber pickles (Ciroz), and freshly sliced honeydew melon served with Ezine cream cheese (Kavun and Peynir). Hot appetisers featured confit artichoke stuffed with rice and meat (Enginar), shallow-fried vegetables (Mucver), and calamari rings fried to perfection, served with Yedi’s special sauce.
The ‘Catch from the Aegean Sea’ platter was a delightful feast for seafood enthusiasts. The combination of grilled seabass fillet, charred octopus, and king prawns was a true masterpiece. The sea bass was tender and flaky, while the prawns were succulent. The charred octopus added a delightful smokiness to the dish. To elevate the flavours even further, the seafood was accompanied by a zesty lemon and herb sauce. Each bite was a burst of freshness and tang.
While I indulged in the ocean’s bounty, my companion decided to savour the delights of the ‘Anatolian BBQ’. The platter boasted tender and flavorful kebabsAdana kebab, sis tavuk, and beef shashlik, served with a side of French fries and bulgur.
The combination of the seafood platter and the grilled meat ensured that both of us had a truly memorable dining experience at Yedi by Chef Esat. It was indeed a night of culinary delights, celebrating the rich flavours of Bodrum.
The evening’s indulgence came to a close with a selection of delectable Aegean-inspired desserts. The ‘Sweet End’ platter showcased sutlac rice pudding, homemade mandarin sorbet, apricot helva, and oregano-marinated pineapple storm, concluding the meal on a delightful fruity note. Throughout the evening, our server, Ram, demonstrated attentiveness and warmth, significantly contributing to the enjoyment of our dining experience. We were also treated to the enchanting melodies of a Kanun player and a violinist. The live music added a touch of cultural authenticity to the dining experience.
Available every Thursday from 7 pm – 11 pm, priced at QAR175 per person including soft beverages. Additional QAR100 per person for free flow of enhanced drinks for 3 hours. For reservations, call 4141 6000, WhatsApp +974 3100 3370 or email dohmd.fbreservation@lemeridien.com. m
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La Petite Maison (LPM)
Eat, drink, be happy, create with friends… Experience the Best with LPM!
Author: Terry Sutcliffe
Located in Al Maha Island, at Lusail City in Doha, La Petite Maison (LPM) Doha features an outdoor terrace facing the yacht club, with beguiling sunsets and a modern dining room with a Cote d’Azur feel, serving a mix of southern French and Mediterranean cuisine. The new French Rivierainspired brunch is available every Saturday from 12:30 pm to 4 pm.
La Petite Maison in growing in popularity mainly due to its fabulous menu, greatly supported by excellent friendly and professional staff, a modern comfortable dining room with the atmosphere of a classy
restaurant, an outdoor terrace where, climate-permitting, one can also gaze over the Gulf waters and Lusail Yacht Club and catch an epic sunset view.
The dining room has an impressive long bar with a dazzling array of colourful bottles on display. The contemporary décor shows some endearingly quirky joie de vivre, and the staff made us feel most welcome. You’ll love the choice of signature cocktails and mocktails: the mixtures and combinations sound so creative – and taste so good!
At your table you will find it has been set with three large ripe tomatoes, some lemon and a bottle of olive oil. This is not just for decoration, but it’s there for you to make your own starter salad, for which your server will swiftly bring some warm, fresh bread. With your cocktail, it’s a fresh and light start to the meal.
The ‘meal’ in question is LPM’s special, indeed signature, ‘La Vie en Rose’ Saturday brunch menu, which brings all the savoir-faire of French and Mediterranean cuisine. There are so many starters, which include a fresh plate of creamy burrata with cherry tomatoes and basil, a dish of warm prawns bathing in olive oil, a perfectly seasoned and tasty beef tartare and, my personal favourite – the dish I had been waiting for – Les Escargots de Bourgogne…
I feasted my eyes on six shimmering shells, covered in garlic and herbs. It’s better if you know how to manipulate the snail tongs and the special dainty fork to extract the aforementioned escargots. You’ll enjoy the whole process – the succulent texture, and the mouthwatering melange of garlic, herbs and butter on your bread.
After all the hors d’oeuvres, now we’re at main courses, and again tantalising choices: the marinated baby chicken sounds quite ordinary but, creatively grilled, skin perfectly seasoned and just a little crispy, this dish more than surprises and satisfies…. Now here’s a bowl of homemade seafood rigatoni (pasta tossed with a sauce of mushrooms and cream); also a finely sliced perfectly grilled sirloin, with chimichurri sauce; not to mention the absolutely scrumptious mushroom risotto and, for me a delightful surprise, the pièce de résistance in fact, was the absolutely gorgeous filet of sea bass.
I always feel guilty, after eating my fill and really enjoying the tastes and textures, being impressed by the chefs’ creativity and professionalism, and by the friendly, helpful servers at the table, then to go on to dessert and eat what could be considered more frivolous and not so healthy. But hey, I thought, it’s just a small but fitting finale again to the creativity and artistry of the chefs, and don’t most people feel happy and content with a delicious and fun finale. And apart from the pain perdu, where my knowledge of French makes me suspicious, the choices are all so tempting, especially the strawberry melba, the cheesecake, the French toast with ice cream and the chocolate mousse! Yes, all of them! A fitting finale, indeed.
La Petite Maison (LPM) Doha is truly impressive: the pedigree, the waterfront location, the interior comfort and decor, the professional staff in kitchen and at table but mainly – the proof is in the pudding as they say – every course, every single dish, every glass of whatever was enjoyed and appreciated by all. My expectations? Fully satisfied.
For reservations, please call 4420 9888 m
marhaba eats out...
YUN, Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay
Back for More: Yum Cha Brunch
at
Yun
Author: Ayen Molina
Remember our recent lunch adventure at YUN in the Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay? Well, this new hotspot proved too tempting to resist, so this past weekend, I returned to experience their new brunch offering: Yum Cha. And let me tell you, it was a whirlwind of flavour and a feast for the eyes. The best part? Get ready to relax because the food is served directly to your table!
From the moment the bamboo steamers arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The Handmade Wagyu Dumplings, enveloped in a reduced soy sauce, were
seasoned to perfection. Wagyu Beef and Consommé Truffle Dumplings offered pure luxury in every bite. Har Gau, steamed to a delicate chewiness, revealed juicy prawns. Siu Mai, those little packs, delivered a flavourful burst with their shrimp filling.
Each Xiao Long Bao, filled with crab meat and chicken broth, offered an explosion of savoury goodness. And same with the Applewood Smoked Beef Brisket Bao with Chinese barbecue glaze: smoky, tender slices of beef brisket, coated in a sticky-sweet glaze, were nestled in fluffy bao buns.
These dim sums are perfectly complemented by a dip in Yun’s own XO sauce, which elevates each dumpling and bao to new heights. Honestly, they should bottle and sell it by the jar – it’s that good!
While the steamed delights were the stars of the show, Yun’s Yum Cha Brunch offered a delightful array of other dishes to round out the experience. Crispy Wild Mushroom and Vegetable Spring Rolls were perfectly fried. Deep-fried Free Range Chicken Wontons, served with a homemade chilli sauce, provided a satisfying crunch. And for a refreshing contrast, the Plum Marinated Heirloom Tomatoes with sweet and sour honey sauce cleansed the palate between bites.
Sliced Roast Duck arrived with melon, cucumber, and leek strips, served with hoisin sauce and pancakes to wrap. While you can request unlimited refills from the appetiser menu, the main course and dessert each offer a single selection from their enticing options, each thoughtfully paired with a signature tea – making for a total of three unique tea experiences throughout the brunch.
For our main course, we sampled the melt-in-yourmouth Triple Cooked Beef Short Rib, Shanghai-style (with a hint of sweetness), and flaky Steamed Sea Bass delicately coated in yellow pepper sauce. Stir-fried rice and noodles provided the perfect accompaniment.
For dessert, we enjoyed the cool and creamy Chilled Mango Sago with Roast Coconut Ice Cream, while the Milk Pudding with Truffle Honey and Iced Black Sesame offered a unique and satisfying conclusion to the meal.
YUN’s Yum Cha Brunch is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the art of dim sum and beyond. The brunch menu masterfully showcased traditional Cantonese and Taishanese favourites. The glamorous 1930s atmosphere, coupled with attentive and friendly service, made for a truly enjoyable brunch experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Priced at QAR248 per person, this delectable experience is available every Saturday from noon – 4 pm.
For reservations, call 4008 9000, WhatsApp +974 5102 9105 or email waldorfastoriadoha.restaurants@waldorfastoria.com m
marhaba eats out...
Mezzo, AlRayyan Hotel Doha
Friday Italian Feast at Mezzo
Author: Ayen Molina
Marhaba returns to Mezzo, a hidden gem located in AlRayyan Hotel Doha at Mall of Qatar, for a taste of Italy with the ‘Mamma Mia’ Italian buffet.
Knowing that Italian cuisine is a favourite of many, myself included, I arrived with an appetite, ready to indulge. We started where most do, at the beginning. The first station offered a spread of tempting small eats, including flavourful Bruschetta with Tomato Pesto
and Polo Fungi, Bresaola Pinwheels, a variety of fresh salads, and a well-stocked charcuterie board featuring a variety of cold cuts, cheeses, and smoked salmon. The bread station was just as enticing, with Focaccia being the standout favourite.
After savouring multiple slices of Bruschetta, we managed to resist the temptation for more and proceeded to the pasta station. At this ‘Make Your Own’ pasta counter, a large parmesan wheel took centre stage. I opted for penne with a creamy white sauce, generously topped with parmesan shavings. Delizioso!
Next up was the pizza, where we watched a chef skilfully slide a long peel into the oven. The pizza had a thin, crunchy crust, topped with a rich layer of both sharp and velvety melted cheese. And don’t forget the kids and their idea of good food – there’s a special station that featured kid-approved favourites: crispy chicken nuggets, golden fries, crunchy onion rings, and stretchy mozzarella sticks that were so tempting, even the grown-ups found themselves enjoying a taste.
We headed back over to the food station, plates at the ready. There are creative and delicious-looking dishes like ‘fall-off-the-bone’ Osso Buco a la Milanese and Braised Beef Brisket with sweet potatoes, and a unique take on mashed potatoes, delightfully enhanced with parmesan cheese. Of course, there was Beef Lasagne on the spread, and the filling was wonderfully rich. The Chicken Scallopine a la limonene with light lemon sauce and a personal favourite –Cioppino; this magnificent dish has a wonderful and extensive array of seafood delicacies hidden inside.
There were baby octopus, mussels, prawns, clams, squid – all dripping in a rich tomato sauce. Mamma mia indeed!
On to the mocktail station, where intriguing options awaited: Sangria and Peach Bellini, each accompanied by a note on its origin. Did you know Sangria dates back to the Renaissance, its name derived from the Spanish word sangre meaning blood, a nod to its vibrant red hue? Meanwhile, the Peach Bellini, with its unique pink colour, was said to be inspired by the toga of a saint in a painting by Giovanni Bellini. The drink was named by the founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice.
Dessert was a continuation of the masterpieces that came before it. Hopefully, you can still enjoy some sweets. The dessert bar is a kaleidoscope of colours and textures. From Italian specialities like Tiramisu Cups – you’ll love the smooth cream and coffee taste – and Zeppole, delightful small balls of deep-fried dough which is incredibly light and fluffy, with a warm, pillowy interior and a lightly crunchy outside, similar to ladyfingers.
There were plenty of bite-sized treats for everyone. From a decadent dark and white chocolate fountain with fresh fruits and marshmallows to a tempting ice cream station and a whimsical candy station for the young and young-at-heart, these sweet delights provided the perfect ending to a wonderful meal.
Experience the delicious flavours of La Dolce Vita at Mezzo, AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton every Friday, from 1 pm to 4 pm, for QAR180 per person including soft beverages. This offer is also available on buy one, get one free discount apps.
For reservations, please call or WhatsApp +974 5513 3472. m
Le Colonial’s MBrunch: An International Feast of Flavours
The newest Friday brunch in town!
Author: Marrian Magtira
Q marhaba eats out...
atar’s culinary scene is continuously evolving with various new offerings among restaurants. The MBrunch, at Alwadi Hotel Doha –MGallery’s Le Colonial outlet, is one of the newly launched Friday brunches in town, featuring international street food.
The laid-back atmosphere of the place welcomed us as soon as we arrived. Placed along the corners of the restaurant, the buffet line is expansive, with different selections that are all surely enticing.
Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a meat enthusiast, their array of dishes has something for everyone. For those who prefer meat and enjoy Arabic flavours, there’s a station dedicated to kebabs, shawarma, and some more variety of meat. On the seafood front, there’s a station featuring sushi, rolls, mussels, shrimp, and more.
What makes this place special are the live stations. At the pasta station, guests can pick and customise their pasta with white or red sauce, penne or orecchiette, and toppings of their choice. Another station offers Thai-Asian options like fried rice or noodles.
There’s also a section for Indian cuisine. This brunch is a real feast of international flavours.
For desserts, they have churros, cookies, muffins, cupcakes, and more! The best part of their sweet station is the ice cream machine – guests can also sprinkle toppings on top of their ice cream.
So if you’re in to try and explore Friday brunches in town, come down to Le Colonial and treat yourself to an international feast of flavours that will leave you satisfied!
MBrunch
• Fridays, 1 pm – 5 pm
• Price:
• QAR199 per person (including soft beverages)
• QAR249 per person (including house beverages)
• QAR299 per person (including bubbly)
• Call 4009 9666 for more information or reservations
marhaba eats out...
Muru, Waldorf Astoria Doha
West Bay
Tasting
the Elements: A Brunch Experience at Muru
Author: Ayen Molina
The new brunch at the Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay’s Muru restaurant, on the fifth floor, offers a unique dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with stunning views of the Al Dafna skyline. The expansive venue is illuminated with ample natural light, complemented by muted colour tones, and boasts a vibrant bar run by an enthusiastic team of female baristas. It is a picture-perfect setting for those who enjoy taking photos.
The name Muru, meaning seed, symbolises new beginnings and life’s natural cycles, embodying the essence of growth and interconnection. At the MURU Brunch, you’ll find a harmonious blend of elegant cuisine and an upbeat DJ atmosphere.
We began our dining experience with the Crudo Bar’s refreshing vegetable roll with okra, sundried tomato, and quinoa. This was followed by ceviche and thinly sliced beef Tiradito, artfully glazed with a smoky chipotle ponzu and a zesty aji amarillo mayo. Next, the Beef Anticucho skewers arrived, tender and richly seasoned. They were complemented by the crispy prawns paired with creamy mashed potatoes. The surprise highlight was the eggplant parmigiana, an unexpected star that elevated the humble eggplant to new heights. If these delightful starters leave you wanting more, you can easily request another serving at your table.
Meanwhile, Barsha, our affable server, is genuinely dedicated to making this brunch experience an exceptionally memorable one. She inquired about our drink preferences, and when I requested her recommendation from their non-alcoholic cocktails menu, she promised to surprise me. True to her word, she presented us with The Water Element - Tanzan Mizu, a concoction featuring green and purple shiso, grapefruit, rhubarb, and blood orange.
Hola! It was time for the main event… and ‘muy bien’ would be an understatement. We enjoyed Striploin with chimichurri and mushroom sauce – the sauce was so good that we asked for a refill. The wild seabass, served with pili pili sauce and pickled beetroot, was next, followed by the cockerel prepared Indian-style
with homemade sriracha. It was complemented by broccolini, spiced grilled corn, and empanada.
While a sweet ending is the perfect conclusion to a wonderful meal, Muru took it up a notch with a special surprise! We were presented with a huge bowl serving three classic desserts set over a dramatic display of dry ice: the creamy Tres Leches, Muru’s own take on a Snickers bar, and a tangy strawberry and lemon sorbet, all accompanied by fresh fruits.
Every Friday, between 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm, the Elemental Brunch promises to be a feast for the senses. Indulge in this fine dining experience at QAR330 per person, which includes soft beverages, or enhance your brunch for QAR465 per person, which comes with special beverages.
For table reservations or additional details, call 4008 9000 or WhatsApp 5102 9105. m
marhaba eats out...
The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl – Qatar Marina Brunch: A Splash of Summer at Roberto’s Doha
Author: Marrian Magtira
Picture this: It’s midday, and you’re in the heart of Porto Arabia, soaking in the beauty of the island and the Arabian Gulf.
Overlooking this serene scene is The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl – Qatar. Here, it’s not just a place to eat; it’s where dining becomes an adventure. Whether you’re a regular or a first timer, this is the spot to satisfy your cravings and engage yourself in unique activations.
Marina Brunch takes place at Roberto’s Doha in St Regis Marsa Arabia every Friday, with a whole new level of brunch experience — from their stellar menu to the live entertainment extravaganza, all topped off with their unmatched service!
Guests are warmly embraced by the lively summer ambience, with beach ball balloons, swimming float decorations, and performers donning marine-themed attire, all adding to the vibrant atmosphere at Roberto’s. The place is filled with good vibes along with the aromatic line of culinary delights on the side.
The menu boasts a harmonious blend of meat, veggies, and seafood, ensuring there’s something to hit every palate. From Italian classics like vibrant salads and expertly crafted pizzas to indulgent pasta dishes, succulent meats, and an enticing seafood selection, each item is a masterpiece of creativity and delicacy. Even the names of the dishes reflect how they were carefully and creatively crafted, perfectly matching the brunch’s maritime theme.
Two of our favourites were the ‘Super Yacht’ Salmon and the ‘Seven Seas’ Paccheri, both offering a perfect balance and symphony of flavours, leaving us completely satisfied after every single bite.
Following the rich flavours of their main dishes, we were promptly presented with a selection of desserts and fruits that satisfied our sweet tooth!
This brunch at Roberto’s Doha isn’t just a simple midday break; it presents a whole new level of interactive entertainment, and an unmatched service. Indeed, Roberto’s is the place where guests meet new lifestyle experiences and unique activations.
So, if you’re in search for a Friday brunch with a splash of summer and the flavours of the sea, come down to Roberto’s at The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar, and be ready to jive and vibe with their performances!
Marina Brunch at Roberto’s
• Fridays, 1 pm – 4 pm
• Soft Package: QAR350 per person
• Enhanced Package: QAR450 per person
• Enhanced + Champagne Package: QAR790 per person
For reservations, call 4020 4460 or WhatsApp +974 3995 3756 m
marhaba eats out...
Qureshi Bukhara, Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha
A Symphony of Spices: The Qureshi Brunch Experience
Author: Ayen Molina
Marhaba received another delightful invitation to savour the exceptional Indian cuisine at Qureshi Bukhara, but this time was special – it was to sample their famed Qureshi Brunch.
The brunch buffet offered at the acclaimed restaurant within Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha promised an array of sumptuous dishes, reflecting the essence of India’s diverse gastronomy.
I was joined by a companion who is an adventurous professional chef and is currently visiting Qatar. Given her fondness for Indian cuisine, she was eager to dive into the culinary creations of Qureshi Bukhara. As we arrived, the staff greeted us warmly and led us to our table. The dim lighting and wooden accents throughout the restaurant evoked the intimate and rustic charm of a cave-like setting. We dropped our bags and hurried to the buffet station, where Archana, our amiable host, guided us through the spread.
First stop: the salad station, offering a wide selection including beetroot salad, Kala Chana salad (black chickpea), chicken salad*, assorted vegetables, fruits, pickled lemons and onions, chutneys, and raita, allowing diners to create their own salad, with pappadams and butter naan available to complement the meal.
On to the mains: the selection impresses with a variety of traditional Indian dishes. The spread begins with Murgh Korma – chicken braised in a relatively mild, velvety yogurt sauce that’s seasoned with aromatic spices, followed by Rogan Josh, a dish of tender mutton slowly cooked with onions and spices. The seafood choice is a Jinga Malai Curry*, a delicate prawn dish. Diners can also savour the Murgh Kali Mirch Tandoori – chicken in black pepper, Seekh Kabab – tender rolls of succulent lamb mince, and Reshmi Kabab* – tender rolls of chicken mince all brought together in a mouthwatering chargrilled finish. Lastly, the Saudhey Aloo* offers a vegetarian delight, with potatoes cooked to perfection.
The further array of vegetarian dishes is just as inviting, with Aloo Gobhi offering a rich masala blend with potatoes and cauliflower, and Bhindi Hara Masala* delighting with sautéed okra, onions, and tomatoes. The Tikki Kabab, or potato patties, and the Tandoori Phool*, featuring smoked, marinated cauliflower, also stand out. Completing the feast is the Tandoori Salad – a warm medley of grilled pineapple, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and paneer, all charred to perfection in the tandoor.
Venturing to another station, we’re greeted with the aromatic Jeera Rice, Murgh Yakhani Biryani, featuring soft chicken slices nestled within a bed of longgrain basmati rice, a speciality of the house, the Dal Qureshi Bukhara, a testament to patience and culinary artistry with its combination of black lentils, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic, all simmered for 34 hours, and the Jinga Tili Tinka* offering a crunch with prawns that have been marinated, coated with white sesame and breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Many might hesitate to try Indian cuisine due to its reputation for being spicy. Yet, at Qureshi Brunch, the seasoning is masterfully balanced to offer rich flavours without overwhelming heat, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience for all.
The dessert station offers two quintessentially Indian delights – the classic Gulab Jamun, drenched in saffron-honey syrup, alongside the delicate Rasmalai*, a sponge-like cheese soaked in creamy milk sauce. These signature desserts together with Salted Lassi and Masala chai* offer a satisfying finale to the meal.
We also learned that day of the passing of Chef Imtiyaz Qureshi, who had been in the hospital for two weeks. While his passing is a significant loss, his culinary legacy endures through his son, Chef Irfan Qureshi, who is also an accomplished chef and carries on his father’s esteemed work.
Every Friday, between 1 pm and 4:30 pm, the Qureshi Brunch promises to be a feast for the senses. Delight in this lavish food experience at QAR129 per person, which includes soft drinks, or enhance your brunch enjoyment for QAR229 per person, which comes with special beverages.
For table reservations or additional details, call 4004 4052 or WhatsApp 3070 1295. Don’t miss this chance to savour the cherished tastes of India, right in the bustling heart of Qatar.
*Highly recommended by Marhaba m
Doubletree by Hilton Al Sadd
Brunch to the Beat: Your Friday Fiesta Awaits at Broadway Brasserie
Author: Weslee Dizon
I marhaba eats out...
f your idea of a Friday brunch is a midday feast with a side of fantastic live band entertainment, all wrapped up in the lively vibes of a Friday night, then the Brunch to the Beat by Broadway Brasserie at Doubletree by Hilton Al Sadd should be the next thing you should try.
When we stepped into the venue, it wasn’t just lunchtime – it was a fullblown evening extravaganza! It was as if the clock had fast-forwarded to Friday night, with everyone sipping on drinks, soaking in the live music, and revelling in an atmosphere that felt more like a night out than a midday meal. The place is adorned with decorations that scream Nashville, complete with a stage for a live band right next to the bar.
Now, let’s talk about the real stars of the show – the food! The buffet is a fiesta with everything from fresh bread and sushi to mouthwatering main courses, burgers, live grill stations, live pasta stations, and a dessert haven. Think seafood ceviche, cheese rolls, grilled tenderloin, BBQ chicken wings, Thai vegetable green curry, mussels chalaca style – the list is as endless as a Broadway musical’s plot twists!
And guess what? They’ve got billiards, too! So, if you’re feeling a bit competitive between bites, challenge your brunch buddies to a friendly game.
But the real crescendo of the day happens after you’ve indulged in this feast. We made our way to the bar area to catch the live performances by Savage Groove, a sensational group of Filipino musicians. You’ve heard the saying about Filipino performers –when they sing, they SING! They will have you tapping your feet and singing along because, trust us, the beats are as lively as the crowd.
The atmosphere is electric, and the staff? They’re not just serving you; they’re part of the entertainment. It’s like walking into a party where everyone’s a friend you haven’t met yet.
So, what’s the cost of this Friday fiesta? QAR280 gets you in with soft beverages, and for QAR380, you can upgrade to Broadway beverages!
This Friday, from 1 pm to 4 pm, head over to Broadway Brasserie and get ready for the ultimate Friday fusion – a symphony of seafood, succulent steaks, and tunes that’ll kickstart your weekend in style.
Reserve your spot now by calling +974 5037 0026. m
marhaba eats out...
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
A Mexicana Brunch
Extravaganza at Tulum Doha
Author: Ayen Molina
Tulum, a vibrant beach town on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. Allow us to transport you, through a gastronomic voyage, to Tulum without ever leaving Doha.
As the weather begins to cool, Tulum Doha makes its perfectly timed debut. Perched on the seventh floor
of Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, it exudes a sophisticated yet relaxed ambience tucked next to the pool area.
Our meal started with a generous serving of homemade guacamole and nachos. Afterwards, we ventured into tasting two distinct types of cevichethe sea bream dressed in a corn sauce, and a tuna fillet beautified with a mango puree. Each dish offered a fresh and tangy profile, delicately contrasted with a hint of sweetness.
We followed this by sampling two fulfilling bowls: the Quinoa Salad, brimming with black-eyed peas, an array of seasonal vegetables, and cherry tomatoes, tied together with a zesty lime and ginger sauce, alongside a Cowboy Salad, lavished with flank steak, black beans, panela cheese, coconut oil, and crispy tortilla. Both salads delivered a hearty and enjoyable culinary experience.
Then came the hot and tempting treats, impressively served on two large platters. The first boasted a variety of delectable items such as pulled beef machaca tacos, shrimp tacos, angus brisket empanada, and chicken quesadilla. On the second platter, we found slow-cooked lamb barbacoa and chicken al pastor, accompanied by tortillas, and a whole roast lamb paired with refried beans laced with Manchego cheese. Our meal was beautifully complemented by a Caipirinha, an iconic Brazilian concoction.
The afternoon rounded off on a sweet note with classic treats: freshly toasted churros served with
chocolate and caramel sauces, an ultra-creamy tres leches, and a bowl loaded with an assortment of tropical fruits.
The lively atmosphere was further elevated by the exceptional performances of both the DJ and the saxophonist.
The Friday Brunch runs from noon to 4 pm, priced at QAR195 per person, inclusive of soft beverages. For an upgraded experience, the price is QAR295. Follow this with the ‘Liquid Brunch’ from 4 pm to 7 pm at QAR180, which includes house beverages.
For further information or to make a booking, call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890. m
marhaba eats out...
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
The Great Gatsby Brunch at New York Steakhouse
Author: Terry Sutcliffe
Here’s your ticket back in time to a remarkable American era and feel the retro charm, swing to the smooth, jazzy live entertainment, sip at an exclusive Martini bar, savour the opulence of caviar tasting and a myriad of magnificent meat cuts, mmm…….
We walked into the New York Steakhouse in Marriott Marquis City Center Doha to the live sounds of ’Summertime’, that gorgeous jass classic, and things
only got better from there. There was a nice buzz in the room, people were jovial, chatting – this is not a boring place!
The boss chef introduced himself and gave us the basic outlines and alternatives of the menu. He is really nice, very active, and seems to get around everybody and not just the one time. The choice of Martinis is fantastic (as is the ‘glass’!) and we were informed we will start with bread and butter. If that sounds boring, well, I agree – but it wasn’t. Three types of bread and three types of ‘butter’, all of which were a new taste to me. Interesting.
Then we had a kind of (large) amuse-bouche, the NYSH Classic Slider, which gave us a taste of Wagyu beef, BLT and Comte cheese, all with super suitable sauces – a bite-size intro to classic or fine dining but in the American way.
America and NY Steakhouse may indeed be synonymous with beef, but New York is also by the sea, so the Steakhouse doesn’t forget the succulent seafood awaiting offshore.
There follows an amazing icy-cold seafood tower served at our table with a list of ingredients to blow your mind: oysters with mignonette, marinated lobster with lemon olive oil, shrimps with cocktail sauce, king crab with avocado and wasabi mayo, and tuna tartar with lemon gel and kewpie mayo. Each was amazingly tasty and the sauces or dressings were exquisitely appropriate.
Apart from this master chef’s bonhomie, his global knowledge and choice of ingredients, his energy
in sourcing, preparing and presenting his menu concept and most of all his choice of unlikely but unique pairings of dressing and dish is absolutely amazing. I’ve never met the man before but he’s one remarkable manager and technician.
We enthusiastically polished off the seafood samples (and their sauces!) and then we experienced a real carnivore carnival, with a sharing tray of six signature cuts including chops, an extra ‘touch of taste’ with some slices of Cecina beef, and then the pièce de résistance, the slow-roasted prime beef rib which had been lying quite inconspicuously nearby but when chef brought it to our table and generously sliced it open it burst into life which, even before tasting, just looked so succulently delicious.
It depends on your preference on degree of redness, but our more well-done slices were absolutely meltin your-mouth mouth-wateringly delectably delicious, the more sore (again!) with the choice of different mustards, sauces and gravies. This felt like the main dish, and it was, because it was tops!
Take your time, there’s still plenty to come. As a ‘value proposition’ this just gets better and better…
Now a trolley comes up, this time with dessert. By the way, yes, there are a lot of trolleys and trolley action in this restaurant and it’s because this chef and his lieutenants inside on bringing their creations and their serving right unto your table. Most everything is shown in front of you and there’s a great feeling of being involved with the chefs and other staff.
Now this must be the place to get a real New York cheesecake; it is, and it was. The best I’ve had in my memory. And if the cheesecake was traditional, the amazing apple pie was not. Underneath a disguise of cream and mousse lay a wonderfully palatable not-pie apple pie. Cheesecake – expectedly excellent; apple pie – unexpectedly excellent.
To finish with, another shout-out to chef’s selection of cheeses. Personally chosen from those available on the market, he can offer more than half a dozen with names, mainly French, that don’t include the usual brie, camembert or emmental. We love French cheeses but these were, again, unexpectedly excellent.
With our last mouthful of grapes and grape juice, we can reflect on how wide the spectrum is when considering cheese or meat or seafood, or bread and vegetables, how our collective ingenuity has brought almost unlimited choice and taste to our tables.
Specifically, in meat and more, New York Steakhouse has done a darned good job.
The Great Gatsby Brunch at New York Steakhouse in Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, is available every Friday from 12 pm to 4 pm. Priced at QAR395 (including soft beverages) per person, QAR495 (including selected beverages) per person or QAR595 (including premium beverages, caviar tasting and martini bar) per person. For more information and reservations, please call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890. Click here to visit the website. m
marhaba eats out...
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
A Friday Brunch Journey
in Mediterranean
Delights at La Marsa
Author: Ayen Molina
There is a new contender in town for a delightful Friday brunch experience that is guaranteed to leave you craving for more. Formerly known as Restuarant Marsa Katara, La Marsa at The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort blends the Mediterranean and chic vibes into an exquisite dining experience. From the moment you set foot in La Marsa, you will be whisked away to a world where exceptional culinary
craft mingles with breathtaking aesthetics. The overwater dining area, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, provides an unparalleled setting for a memorable brunch feast. Enhanced by thoughtful interiors, natural lighting and immersive music with a live kitchen, La Marsa distinguishes itself as a distinctive dining destination.
We kick-started our journey with a variety of cold appetisers - hummus, guacamole and labneh, boasting a creamy texture and rich flavours that paired perfectly with freshly baked bread. Complementing these flavours was their Sunpassion Mojito - a refreshing blend of passion fruit puree, orange juice, lemon, cranberry, and soda water.
Next were the Maki rolls and the Octopus Carpaccio with frisee lettuce, seasoned with smoked paprika and olive oil. The delicate balance of textures and the burst of Mediterranean flavours made the dish an absolute delight for the senses.
Thereafter, we indulged in Buffalo Mozzarella served with pesto, tomatoes and baby beetroot, followed by crispy chicken salad sprinkled with sesame. The presentation was in itself a feast for the eyes, almost too beautiful to eat.
Our culinary adventure progressed and this time, we were introduced to hot appetisers - kibbeh, cheese rolls, meat sambousek, lamb kebab, and pan-seared scallops served with parsnip purée, tomato coulis and basil oil. Each dish was expertly prepared and showcased the perfect balance of flavours and textures.
For the main course, we were served a delectable platter of seafood with lobster tail, king prawns and seabass, and a succulent meat platter with baby chicken breast, lamb chops and beef tenderloin accompanied by potato gratin and sautéed vegetables. These were served with saffron risotto with buffalo mozzarella, green peas puree, and affilla cress. The flavours of the Mediterranean were prominent in each bite, with the seafood cooked to perfection and the meats incredibly tender and flavourful.
To end our exquisite brunch experience on a sweet note, we were presented with a delightful selection of desserts. These included Bougatsa with ice cream and cotton candy, a Chocolate Sphere, which is the chef’s special, and a fruit platter.
From the moment we walked into the restaurant until the last bite of dessert, our experience at the Friday brunch at La Marsa was nothing short of spectacular. The service at La Marsa was noteworthy, elevating the dining experience even further. In particular, our server, Mohsin, left a lasting impression. His attentiveness to our needs and his enthusiasm greatly contributed to our positive experience.
Medi and Chic Brunch at La Marsa, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort is available every Friday from noon to 4 pm and is priced at QAR285 per person.
For reservations, please call 4408 0202. m
marhaba eats out...
Raffles Doha
The Art of Brunch at L’Artisan
Author: Maria Anicas
Stepping into L’Artisan for ‘The Art of Brunch’ at the lavish Raffles Doha, one is immediately greeted with an atmosphere of sheer elegance and sophistication. With its expansive, breezy atmosphere and elegant interior design, L’Artisan creates an ideal setting for a dining experience that elevates the ordinary into something extraordinary. The brunch started with an impressive array of starters – the mezzes, honeycomb and akawi cheese, sumac butter, and salted butter were a pleasant assortment of flavours and textures. However, it was the fluffy and delicious Fontina cheese bread that stole the show.
Seafood lovers would find themselves in paradise as the poached seafood platter arrived, featuring lobster tail, tiger prawns, mussels, crab legs, and langoustine.
It was a celebration of the ocean’s finest offerings.
One of the most exciting moments of the brunch was the oyster trolley. This elevated the occasion, as it showcased the freshest Gillerdeau oysters, sourced and presented with an air of culinary finesse. Just picture the anticipation building as the trolley gracefully approached your table!
As the brunch progresses to the main courses, the level of sophistication and culinary skill remains consistently impressive. The Braised Short Rib, cooked to perfection, offers a tender and flavourful experience, enhanced by a smoky barbecue sauce. The Pulled Lamb Shoulder Bun is another standout – the slow-cooked lamb, delicately pulled and served in a soft bun, creates a pleasing contrast of textures and a burst of flavours that lingers. Don’t miss the Bouillabaisse Comme a Marseille, a nod to Southern France’s culinary tradition. This dish, served with aioli mayo, transports you to the Mediterranean with its fragrant broth and perfectly cooked seafood.
The dessert selection serves as a splendid finale. The roasted pineapple offers tropical flavours, while the passionfruit Mille-feuille adds a delicate layer of sweetness and crispiness. The tiramisu is a classic, rich and indulgent treat. But what really stands out are the Katara Towers waffles. These waffles take on the distinctive shape of the hotel’s exterior, a clever and eye-catching design choice that captures the essence of the place. They not only look good but are also tasty.
To sum it up, ‘The Art of Brunch’ at L’Artisan is the expression of elegance fused with exquisite flavours. This brunch lives up to its name, turning dining into a true work of art.
The Art of Brunch at L’Artisan Fridays, noon – 4 pm
QAR330 including soft beverages; QAR390 including special beverages; QAR600 including premium beverages
For reservations, please call 4030 7100 or email dining.doha@raffles.com m
marhaba eats out...
Steigenberger Hotel Doha
Saturday Lunch at Crust Restaurant
Author: Maria Anicas
Nestled within the elegant Steigenberger Hotel Doha, Crust Restaurant offers an enchanting promise of an international buffet feast, tailored for adults seeking culinary excellence. However, what truly sets this dining haven apart is its ingenious blend of indulgence and convenience, highlighted by a captivating Kid’s Corner that allows parents to relish their meal while their little ones are tended to in the most delightful manner.
We recently had the pleasure of trying the Saturday Lunch, and I must say that the experience exceeded all expectations.
The Kid’s Corner
At Crust Restaurant, dining becomes an immersive family experience like no other. Amid the lavish spread for adults, a dedicated kid’s area awaits, a corner where young palates are catered to with care and creativity. Here, an array of delectable treats—sliders, pasta, chicken nuggets, fish fingers, and more—invite little adventurers to savour every bite. And as the young ones engage in a world of playful exploration through face painting, balloon twisting, arts and crafts, and the enchantment of mascot entertainment, parents are gifted with the rare luxury of uninterrupted dining. It’s a rare treat to enjoy a leisurely dining experience while knowing that the children are not only well taken care of, but also having a blast.
Journey of Flavours
The buffet spread was an absolute culinary delight, starting with a generous offering of salads and starters. The highlight is the juicy roast chicken, a true masterpiece of flavour and tenderness. And alongside that, there’s the delightful fish in lemon butter sauce—a perfect blend of rich buttery goodness and refreshing zesty tang.
Dessert Oasis
The dessert section is like a magical oasis. You’ll discover a variety of delicious sweets, each with its own unique taste and texture. But among them all, one treat shines: the Black Forest Cake. It finds a perfect balance, not overly sweet. The dark chocolate layers blend seamlessly, crafting a symphony of flavours that harmonise beautifully.
Quintessential Experience
In a nutshell, our time at Crust Restaurant was a delightful blend of experiences – delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and family-friendly vibes all for QAR110 per person and QAR55 for children ages 3 to 12 years. It’s perfect for families, couples, and everyone in between.
There’s also an offer to enjoy the Saturday Lunch with pool access, allowing guests to dine while also taking a refreshing dip or lounging by the water for only QAR200 per person.
Saturday Lunch at Crust Restaurant 1 pm – 4 pm
QAR110 per person (50% discount for kids ages 3 to 12 years)
For reservations, please call 4020 1720. m
marhaba eats out...
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Summer Brunch at Curiosa
by Jean-Georges
Author: Weslee Dizon
Outdoor brunch in this heat?!
Yes! That’s precisely what awaits guests at the Summer Brunch in Curiosa by Jean-Georges at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha.
But before you start stepping back and raising your eyebrows, let me assure you that the entire restaurant, including its outdoor terrace, is thoughtfully air-conditioned, providing guests with the utmost comfort and convenience while enjoying their meal outside, overlooking the sparkling sea and the gentle rustling of palm trees.
It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience this summer that combines the best of both worlds – the tropical
vibes and the cool oasis of the restaurant.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the food! The Curiosa Summer Brunch offers a Latin-family style feast, infused with Jean Georges’ signature flair. Not only is it a culinary delight, but it is also offered at a lower price compared to the regular Friday Brunch, at just QAR299 per person for the regular package and an additional QAR100 for the enhanced package.
The menu is thoughtfully divided into four delectable courses, each brimming with tempting choices.
To kick things off, the cold starters included mouthwatering options such as jalapeño corn bread with sour cream, refreshing guacamole with tomato salsa and warm crunchy tortillas, zesty ceviche featuring the catch of the day with lime, sweet potato, and chulpe corn, and the delectable creamy burrata with strawberry compote, basil, and grilled sourdough.
No matter how tempting, we tried not to get too stuffed because the hot starters included spiced beef empanadas with celery root and tomato salsa, the crispy goodness of fish tacos with aioli and cabbage chilli pickle, and the delightful corn and jalapeño fritters served with truffle mayonnaise.
As for the mains, we had the succulent roasted black seabass accompanied by crispy potato and red chilli lime sauce, and the flavourful rib eye served with chimichurri. Providing a balance to the meal was the roasted cauliflower with turmeric tahini, za’atar, date molasses, pomegranate, and pistachio and crispy sweet potato topped with feta cheese and garlic chilli crunch.
To sweeten things up, we were treated with heavenly cinnamon churros served with hot fudge and pineapple cajeta, the indulgent warm vanilla fritters paired with Mexican chocolate, the delightful tres leches cake garnished with tropical fruit and coconut sorbet, and the refreshing seasonal popsicles featuring strawberry vanilla, chocolate raspberry, coconut passion fruit, mango and chilli flavours.
If you opt for the enhanced package, they have a selection of refreshing cocktails like grapefruit margarita, ginger margarita, and caipirinha, or seasonal sangria. For beer and wine lovers, they’ve got a variety of sparkling, wines and spirits to choose from as well. The restaurant manager recommended a special beverage that is not on the menu. Ask him about it!
With a lively atmosphere and music playing in the background, the Summer Brunch at Curiosa by Jean-Georges is a fantastic brunch affair, blending mouthwatering flavours, cool ambience, and great company. So, step out and savour the summer with this incredible outdoor brunch adventure!
Summer Brunch at Curiosa by Jean-Georges
Friday 12:30 pm – 4 pm
QAR299 per person for non-alcoholic package
QAR399 per person for alcoholic package
QAR150 for kids package (5 to 12 years)
For reservations and enquiries, call Four Seasons Hotel Doha at +974 4494 8600. m
