Where are you travelling next? If you want a meld of luxury, history, adventure and a magical gastronomical journey, Qatar may be just the place you're looking for. Qatar is a small Middle Eastern country that boasts a rich history and a unique culture. The capital city of Doha is the perfect place to experience everything that Qatar has to offer, from traditional souqs to luxurious hotels and restaurants. Let us suggest some of the best places to visit in Qatar to experience its distinctive food culture.
The Ned Hotel
One of the best places to stay in Doha is the Ned Hotel, which is located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers a variety of luxurious rooms and suites, as well as several restaurants and bars. One of the standout dining options at the Ned is Hadika, a restaurant that serves traditional Qatari cuisine. The menu features dishes like mezze platter (an amalgamation of Middle Eastern specialties like baba ganoush, hummus, pita bread, falafel and more) The menu also offers thareed (bread soaked in a meat or vegetable stew), and balaleet (a sweet vermicelli pudding). The Ned is home to more restaurants and restobars for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between.
The Ned
Hadika
B12 Beach Club
Want to hit the beach? Head to B12 Beach Club, which is located on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The beach club offers a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, burgers, and salads. Not to be missed are the heavenly pizzas, which are cooked to perfection. You can also enjoy a variety of cocktails and other beverages while lounging on the bright yellow and pink couches at the lively beach.
B12 Beach Club
Damasca One
Another must-visit restaurant in Doha is Damasca One, which serves authentic Syrian cuisine. It is located inside the traditional Souq Waqif market, and represents the city's culture in the most elementary form. The menu includes dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus, as well as a variety of grilled meats and seafood. The highlight of the menu, however, is the muhammara, a spicy dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, and bread crumbs.
Damasca One
Naua Restaurant
If you're looking for a fine dining experience, head to Naua restaurant, which is located in the Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum. The menu, created by Michelin-star chef Tom Aikens, offers refined dishes made from healthy seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes that blend traditional Middle Eastern flavors with modern techniques and presentation. Highlights of the menu include spinach and feta pastries, lamb loin and sushi wraps. But beetroot sorbet with black currants takes away the cake.
Naua
IDAM
Another top fine dining option in Doha is IDAM, which is located on the top floor of the iconic Museum of Islamic Art, and is tastefully designed by Phillipe Starck. The restaurant is headed by renowned French chef Alain Ducasse and offers a menu that focuses on local ingredients and flavours. The 6-course lunch menu is truly avant-garde, presenting dishes in the most sophisticated manner. Pan-seared sea scallops, red snapper and date souffle dessert are must-try.
IDAM
IDAM
Carbone
For a taste of New York-style Italian cuisine, head to Carbone restaurant, which is located right in front of the Lusail Winter Wondrland on the Al Maha Island. The menu features classic dishes like spaghetti, lasagne and meatballs, veal parmesan, lobster Fra Diavola as well as a variety of cocktails and wines. We highly recommend Raghu Tortellini from the menu. The dish is the perfect amalgamation of spice and cheese.
Carbone
Boho Social
Finally, if you're looking for a more casual dining experience, check out Boho Social, which is located near the famous Katara Cultural Village. The Bohemian-themed restaurants sparks with a melange of colours in the interiors and its outdoor terrace offer a breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf. The restaurant offers a variety of international dishes with modern presentation, as well as a range of cocktails and other beverages. The Goat's Cheese Salad is as refreshing as it can be and Grilled Chicken Mushroom Pasta will please your stomach and heart at the same time.
Boho Social
Boho Social
Doha, Qatar, lets you dive in to its exciting food culture that blends traditional Middle Eastern flavours imbued with cotemporary nuances. Whether you're looking for fine dining or a more casual experience, there's something for everyone in Doha's diverse culinary scene.
About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.