Dining & Restaurants in Qatar: Spring/Summer 2024

Dining & Restaurants in Qatar

Founder & Managing Editor

Hilary Bainbridge

Editorial

Sarah Palmer (Editor)

Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)

Terry Sutcliffe

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Howard Bainbridge

Charlotte Wright

Maria Anicas

Marrian Magtira

Retail Sales

Ayen Molina

Online/Digital

Weslee Dizon

Patrisha Manzon

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Dick Tamayo

Mar Principe

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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!

DALCHINI RESTAURANT

Indian Cuisine

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Shooting for the Stars

By Terry Sutcliffe

The history of the Michelin Star restaurant rating guide

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 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, England and USA, 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. The system awards stars to restaurants based on the quality and creativity of their cuisine. Here's how it typically works:

1. One star: A restaurant with one Michelin star is considered very good and worth a stop on your journey. It represents high-quality cooking and is often a destination for food enthusiasts.

2. Two stars: Two Michelin stars indicate excellent cuisine and are a symbol of fine dining. The restaurant is worth a special detour from your planned route, and the experience is exceptional.

3. Three stars: The highest accolade, three Michelin stars, signifies exceptional cuisine and a unique dining experience. These restaurants are worth a special journey and represent the pinnacle of culinary artistry.

How does a restaurant get a Michelin Star?

First, the Michelin Guide team will select a number of restaurants in specific locations to be inspected by anonymous reviewers. After the inspector visits the selected restaurant, they write a comprehensive report about the total culinary experience, including the quality and presentation of the dishes, among other rating criteria outlined below. The group of Michelin inspectors will then meet to analyse the reports and discuss in-depth which restaurants are worthy of a Michelin Star (or two or three).

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. However, because of the extremely high expectations in the rating system, and its long history, some people – even some chefs – have been questioning its relevance in the modern era. They feel that the expectations of the star system are unreasonable and restrict a chef’s creativity in the kitchen.

Still, 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 Doha because Michelin has only now started to cover the Gulf states (see below), 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

Alternative stars

One such is the Gault & Millau rating system, another renowned and respected French restaurant and hotel guide. It is one of the most respected and influential restaurant and hotel guides in France, and it has also expanded its coverage to several other countries. The guide was founded in 1965 by two French restaurant critics, Henri Gault and Christian Millau. Gault & Millau's approach to rating and reviewing restaurants and hotels is distinct from the Michelin Guide.

Key features of the Gault & Millau rating system:

1. Points system: Gault & Millau uses a pointsbased system to evaluate and rate establishments. Typically, restaurants are scored out of 20 points, with points allocated for various aspects of the dining experience, such as food quality, presentation, service, ambiance, and more.

2. Emphasis on contemporary cuisine: Gault & Millau places an emphasis on modern and contemporary cuisine. It often recognises innovative and creative approaches to cooking.

3. Detailed reviews: Gault & Millau is known for its detailed and descriptive reviews of restaurants, providing feedback and commentary on all aspects of the dining experience, helping readers understand what to expect.

4. Individual recognition: Unlike Michelin, Gault & Millau sometimes provides recognition to individual chefs, sommeliers, and other staff members who excel in their roles.

5. Dynamic ratings: Gault & Millau is known for its dynamic ratings, which means that it revisits and re-evaluates restaurants more frequently than some other guides, reflecting changes in quality and trends.

Overall, Gault & Millau is highly respected in the culinary world and provides an alternative perspective to the Michelin Guide, often celebrating innovation and contemporary cuisine. 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. However, it does restrict itself to the absolute best restaurants and only operates in about thirty countries in the world, mainly, it seems, in Europe, USA and Japan. The good news is that it has now started to operate in the Gulf and has published Michelin guides for Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

And Michelin itself is not standing still; for example, the Bib Gourmand, named after Bibendum the ‘Michelin Man’, is an award for excellent restaurants (and hotels) which charge reasonable prices. And the new Michelin Green Star is awarded to restaurants leading the way in sustainable practices and eco-friendly commitments. m

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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

Exquisite Italian Fine Dining

Roberto’s Doha offers authentic Italian fine dining in a modern setting. Their curated menu features premium ingredients, Italian and international wines, and signature cocktails.

The venue includes a late-night cocktail lounge that brings the Dubai nightlife to the heart of the Pearl of Doha. With meticulous attention to detail and a blend of classic and contemporary dishes, Roberto’s promises a memorable culinary experience in Qatar.

Dining in Qatar

Dining at restaurants

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. Before the arrival of high temperatures in the summer, enjoy the outdoors with al fresco dining.

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 Legatifiya 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 many more that deliver food from restaurants and hotels as well as groceries and other home necessities. Some restaurants

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 in Qatar and Events and Functions

and hotels provide catering services for special occasions. See our new Events and Functions e-guide for more information.

The following pages 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.

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 m

Jiwan Restaurant at the National Museum of Qatar

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

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.

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

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

m

The Qatari desserts

Desert Truffles

By Ola Diab

Desert truffles, locally known as fagaa, are a natural subterranean fungi that grow under the sands of the desert during the rainy season. It is considered a rare delicacy, and cooked and served in different ways as part of the local traditional cuisine. Truffles are the most expensive food in the world. The largest, rarest truffles sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. In Qatar, it could sell for thousands of riyals.

What are truffles?

Truffles are underground mushrooms in the fungi kingdom. The part of the truffle that most people see looks like a small, lumpy potato. This is the part of the fungus that creates spores for reproduction, just like a typical aboveground mushroom. Truffles also send out an extensive system of rootlike filaments called hyphae that interact with plants.

However, the fungus cannot produce its own nutrients. They are mycorrhizal, which means that they grow in association with the roots of another plant, stealing the carbohydrates and nutrients that they need from another plant, which is often a tree. In Europe, this could be a birch, oak or hazel. In the US, they can sometimes be found growing

with pecan trees. In Qatar, desert truffles grow with desert sunflowers. This is a plant that grows up to a metre high and as its name suggests, resembles a sunflower – not in size but in shape and colour. It has bright yellow flowers and its centre is generally orange, rather than the dark brown centres of traditional sunflowers.

Desert truffles can also grow with Qatari wild lawns but in limited quantities, and some of these could be very small and unsuitable for harvest.

There are hundreds of truffle species. The most highly-prized truffles are white, brown, and black. White truffles are typically only found in northern Italy and Croatia. Brown truffles can be found in the US, France and other countries. Black truffles have been found in France, Spain, Serbia, Tasmania and Western Australia.

In Qatar, and in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, desert truffles are most common. Coming from the Terfez or Terfezia truffle family, there are around 30 different types of desert truffle and could be white, brown or black. They are known as fagaa, zubaidi, terfez or kamah in different countries in the region. Desert truffles do not have the same flavour as European truffles, but tend to be more common and thus more affordable. Today, it is the most widely collected truffle in the world. They are attributed certain aphrodisiac qualities, are highly aromatic and very high in protein. In the MENA region, it is traditionally cooked with dishes such as couscous, machboos, and other rice dishes.

Benefits of truffle

• Rich nutrition value: High in protein, fibre, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and iron

• High in antioxidants

• They are cholesterol-free

• Reduces inflammation

• They’re low fat: When dried, they only have about 2–8% fat

• Has antibacterial and anticancer properties

Why are truffles so expensive?

The main reason that truffles are so expensive is because growing them is a tricky process and they are almost impossible to cultivate on a commercial scale. Even with perfect soil conditions, the weather is the final determinator. Truffles don’t like the extremes of temperature or moisture. The soil must be well-drained, but it also can’t be dry. This is where Qatar has trouble. There isn't sufficient rainfall every year.

Sellers attribute the high prices to limited imports during the beginning of the season. Most customers opt to wait until the prices drop to reasonable levels when supply improves. Sellers expect that prices will drop considerably when more supplies of different types hit the market from Algeria, Tunisia and Libya.

Desert truffles sold in Qatar are commonly grown in the country. However, desert truffles from Saudi Arabia, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia and from other MENA countries can also be found in Qatar at varying prices.

Fun fact: The most expensive truffle to date was a large 3.3-pound specimen that was dug up in Tuscany. A billionaire Macau casino owner named Stanley Ho bought it for USD330,000.

In Qatar, a box of truffles sells for QAR400 to QAR3,000.

Besides fagga, another type of truffle called khalas is sold for lower prices.

Every year during winter, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry allocates selling points for truffle retailers at traditional markets.

Harvesting and hunting truffles

Commonly and historically, in many parts of the world, animals such as boars, pigs and dogs are used to find truffles. However, it is possible to find truffles without the help of animals. If you find a desert sunflower, then try looking about 1 m from the plant, and 5 or 10 cm below the surface. Desert truffles are commonly found in the southern areas of the country. The locations where desert truffles are found are not publicly disclosed to avoid the potential damage to the local environment that would be caused by the vehicles that would rush to find them.

According to local truffle hunters, the proper way to extract truffle from the earth is by using a knife and wearing protective gloves, as the smell of truffles attract snakes.

The harvesting season goes from late December to early April. To initiate the germination process, there must be a significant amount of rain in October and November. If it continues to rain after germination, there is the risk that the fungi will rot. According to researchers, 200 mm (8 inches) of rain is the perfect amount to produce a decent harvest. In Qatar, there is only an average of 75 mm (3 inches) of rainfall in a year.

As the temperatures have begun to soar and the rainy season has come to an end, the season for truffle hunting in Qatar is now over. Let’s hope for generous rainfall next winter!

Truffle hunting tips:

- Go in groups to look for truffles and harvest it

- Avoid cutting the small truffle and leave them until it is fully grown.

- Be considerate of the environment and avoid damaging the flora as well as the fauna in the area.

Source: Meteorologist Steff Gaulter Images credit: Asergeev

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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

Foul m’damas Slow-cooked mashed broad beans, lemon, olive oil and cumin

Gahwa, coffee

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

SPICES

Spices play an important part in many dishes in Middle Eastern cooking. Needless to say, every cook should only purchase spices that are of the best quality, preferably in small amounts to preserve their freshness. Many prefer to use whole spices, which can be ground and used as required.

Souq Waqif has spices from around the world and is a legacy from Qatar’s long association with the sea, when dhows trading pearls with India and Africa brought back spices and dishes that have since become part of the local cuisine.

For a less adventurous shopping expedition purchase from the local supermarkets which have both Middle Eastern brands (usually in plastic packets and jars) or the more elegantly packed and expensive international brands.

Allspice (fulaifila) An aromatic flavour with a hint of heat, the seeds add an all-round spicy flavour to meat or chicken dishes.

Baharat (Gulf baharat or kebsa) A spice mixture or blend used in Middle Eastern cuisine, baharat is the Arabic word for ‘spices’. The blend usually contains all of the spices on these pages – in Gulf baharat, black limes and saffron may be used.

Black limes (loomi aswad) Whole dried fruit boiled in salt water and sun dried, and while not strictly a spice, black limes are often used together with spices to sharpen the taste. Pierce whole limes to release the flavour, and remove the pips If using them crushed.

Black pepper (filfil aswad) Buy pepper seeds then grind at home to get the full flavour. This is one of the most popular spices in Middle Eastern cooking.

Cardamom (hael) Small pods containing tiny black seeds with a strong aromatic flavour. Chew a pod after a meal to aid digestion, but swallow only the seeds. The pods can be used whole or split, and the seeds whole or ground. Cardamom is used in Arabic tea and coffee as well as savoury and sweet dishes. Fresh cardamom pods are green in colour.

Allspice

Baharat

Black limes

Cardamom

Chilli (filfil ah’mar) Hot in colour and flavour! Chilli powder is what gives the ‘kick’ to spicy foods in the Gulf. It comes in varying degrees of strength; cayenne pepper is not, in fact, a pepper but ground red chillies and is extremely hot.

Cinnamon (qarfa) Made from the bark of a tropical tree and sold in long, thin rolls, or ground in powder form. It can be used for both sweet and savoury dishes.

Cloves (qurinfil) Dried, unopened flower buds that can be used whole or ground to flavour meat, chicken or rice. Available in both ground and seed form, it has a pungent flavour and should be used sparingly.

Cumin (kamoon) Seeds are used whole in rice and bread, or ground in curries. It complements coriander in some dishes, particularly those from India.

Masala for chicken or fish A much milder Middle Eastern adaptation of the Indian mixture of ground spices. There are many different combinations but most contain black pepper, cardamom, cumin, cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg. It is often used as one of the ingredients of biriyani.

Mace (jarkon) Lacy, orange covering of the nutmeg seed. Look for whole nutmegs, which still have the mace attached; otherwise, buy it ground. Milder in flavour than nutmeg, it is used in both sweet and savoury dishes.

Nutmeg (jose al teeb) To get the best from nutmeg buy the spice whole and freshly grate for each use. It can be added to both sweet and savoury dishes.

Saffron (zaff’aron) The dried stigmas of a crocus flower, saffron threads impart a delicate flavour and yellow colour to dishes and are widely used in cooking rice. This is the most expensive spice in the world.

Sumac (soomak) An essential ingredient in local cuisine, used in spice rubs, marinades and dressings, and also served as a condiment. Sold as a coarse or fine powder, it is produced from the dried berries of a shrub common throughout the Middle East. It has a pleasant tangy taste with a hint of citrus.

Turmeric (kurkum) The plant belongs to the ginger family, the ground rhizome of which used sparingly gives a slightly sweet taste and a deep yellow colour to rice and chicken dishes. Use with care as it can stain.

Zaatar (kurkum) Used in Middle Eastern cuisine as both a herb and spice mixture – it is generally ground dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, or a combination, with toasted sesame seeds, salt, and sometimes sumac.

Chilli

Cumin

Masala Mace

Nutmeg

Saffron

Sumac

Turmeric

Zaatar

Hotels Hotels

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 Levantine

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

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

Laventana

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha – Al Sadd 4004 7400 Blu Terrace International

Akte Pier 51, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha

Al Sufra, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha

HOTELS

Dusit Doha Hotel 4004 4052

Antoinette's

Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha 4004 4052

Churchill

Qureshi Bukhara

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

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 ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Laya Café Middle Eastern ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Library Lounge Bar bites ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Makani Beach Club Mediterranean, poolside bites ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Nobu Doha Japanese ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Seasons Tea Lounge Light bites, afternoon tea ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Alba by Enrico Crippa, Raffles Doha

Aqua Lounge, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

HOTELS

Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 4030 1555

Hang Loose – Bar & Lounge

The Rider – Casual Dining

Golden Tulip Doha 4419 8806

Heenat Salma Farm 4441 1195

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas 4423 6666

Dante Cucina Italiana

Miss Wong

North/South Bay

Holiday Inn Doha –The Business Park 4031 3333

Meesh Express

Sirocco

Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha 4141 1234

Nafourah Garden

JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419 5510 Fuego

Astor Grill, The St. Regis Doha

Benjarong, Dusit Doha Hotel

The EPITOME of of INDIAN ROYAL HERITAGE and FLAVOURS

Indulge in the grandeur of Indian royal heritage and the richness of avors at Masala Library.

Explore a culinary journey, reserve your seat now and savor an array of exquisite dishes. For reservations, please call +974 4030 7200 or email reservations.doha@fairmont.com

HOTELS

Pool Deck International

Shanghai Club Pan Asian

Sridan Arabic, international

The Den International

Katara Hills Doha, 4402 4444

LXR Hotels & Resorts

Gymkhana Indian

La Cigale Hotel, Managed by Accor 4428 8888

Di Capri Italian

Le Cigalon Arabic, International

Orangery European, International

Shisha Garden Levantine

Le Méridien City Center, Doha 4041 3333

Bar Rouge Wine bar

Café Rouge French cafe and brasserie

Caza Contemparary Morrocan

CaZ Bar Mediterranean

La Gourmandise International

L'Apéro American

Le Royal Méridien Doha 3100 3370

ADRIFT Anda by David Myers Italian

Bagatelle Doha French Mediterranean ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Loleya Café French-Arabian cafe ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

The G.O.A.T Sports Lounge Sports lounge ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Yedi by Chef Esat Anatolian ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Mandarin Oriental, Doha 4008 8888

Ambar Bar bites ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Aqua Bar bites ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Baraha Lounge Afternoon tea, pastries ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Gelato Dessert ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘

IZU French, Mediterranean ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Liang Chinese ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Mandarin Lounge Afternoon tea, light bites ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Mosaic International ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Marriott Executive Apartments 4497 1234

Campagnia Caffe International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Farmore Thn Burger International, burgers ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Cecconi’s, The Ned Doha

Copper and Spice, Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town

HOTELS

Marriott Marquis

TELEPHONE

City Center Doha 4419 5000

Aqua Lounge

Crossroads Kitchen

Cucina

Doha Baking Company

Glo Bar

Ipanema

New York Steakhouse

Quick Bites

Churrascaria

West End Cafe Cafe, patisserie

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha 4035 5555

Al Sufra Middle Eastern

Antika Lounge Lebanese, Levantine

Bohemia Lounge International, cigar lounge

Cafe Murano Light bites, afternoon tea

El Faro

Lobito de Mar Spanish, Seafood

Nozomi Contemporary Japanese

Public House American diner

The Secret Garden

The Stage

Toro Toro

Maysan Doha, 4144 6673

LXR Hotels & Resorts

LaCasa Doha

Mondrian Doha 4045 5999

12 Chairs Caviar bar

Black Orchid Night club

EllaMia Cafe, lobby lounge

Hudson Tavern

Mondrian Bistro

Morimoto Japanese

Patio by Walima

Smoke & Mirrors

Mövenpick Hotel Doha 4429 1111

Seasons Restaurant

Curiosa by Jean-Georges, Four Seasons Hotel Doha Crust, Steigenberger Hotel Doha

Immerse yourself in the sounds of Peru at COYA, where live music performances add an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience. COYA, Mezzanine Floor, W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay 4453 5135 7794 3975

HOTELS

Park Hyatt Doha 4009 1234

Anis

Opus

Pullman Doha West Bay 4009 4066

Qabila Westbay Hotel ForKnife

QHub

4496 6513

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha 4428 1555

Bentley’s Grill

Park

Inginuity

Manhattan Lounge bar

Orion Gaiety bar

Pool Bar Light bites

Qube Night club

Ruby Wu’s Chinese

Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar Japanese

Shehrazad Sports bar

The Italian Job Italian

Raffles Doha 4030 7100

Acoustic Music Penthouse

Alba by Enrico Crippa Italian

Blue Cigar Latin American, cigar lounge, bar

L'Artisan European

Malaki Lounge, cafe, afternoon tea

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha 4042 8222

Akte Pier 51

Crust

Farmhouse

Mr. Tailor Steakhouse Steakhouse

EllaMia, Mondrian Doha

Forknife, Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott

POOLSIDE BRUNCH

Every Friday, 12pm to 4pm

Starting at QAR 300 with beverages

FAMILY BRUNCH

Every Saturday, 12pm to 4pm

HOTELS

Rasa Indian

ZOH Lifestyle Deck Poolside dining

Shaza Doha 4470 9999

Grand Trunk Road Indian / Pakistani

Midan International

Shalimar International

Silk International

Sky Garden International

Sheraton Grand Doha 4485 4444

Resort & Convention Hotel

Al Hubara All-day dining, international

Al Sultan Brahim Doha Lebanese

Atrium Lounge International

Irish Harp Contemporary, pub

Jamavar Doha Indian

Lucia's Doha Italian

Nusr-et Steakhouse

Padel Cafe International

Pool Cafe Poolside dining ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels 4433 6661

by Tivoli

Al Matbakh Oriental ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Al Shurfa Greek ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Al Terrace Georgian ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Argan Moroccan ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

La Patisserie Coffee, pastries, Italian ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

La Piazza Italian ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Steigenberger Hotel Doha 4020 1666

Avenue Cake, coffee, mocktails ✔ ✘ ✔ ✘ ✘

Crust All-day dining, international ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘

Olea Terrace Arabic, European ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✘

The Avenue Hotel Doha 4042 8222

Baaya Restaurant

All-day dining, international ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Nektaar Light bites ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Tché Tché Outdoor dining ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔

The Flame and G Lounge Bar, lounge ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Viola Lobby lounge ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Gymkhana, Katara Hills Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Ika, Aleph Doha Residences – Curio Collection by Hilton

HOTELS

The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort 4144 7777

The Beach Restaurant International

The Cigar Lounge European

The Lobby Lounge Light bites, afternoon tea

The Restaurant International

The Ned Doha 4406 1111

Cecconi's Italian

Electric Diner American

Hadika Levantine

Kaia Pan Asian

Malibu Kitchen Californian

Millie's Grill International

The Nickel Lounge International

The Ritz–Carlton, Doha 4484 8000

B-Lounge Doha Asian

Habanos South American ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Lobby Lounge International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Sel & Miel French ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

STK Doha American ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

The St. Regis Doha 4446 0000

Astor Grill International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Bebabel Lebanese ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Hakkasan Doha Cantonese ✘ ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔

La Bodega Negra Mexican ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

OPA Doha Greek ✘ ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔

Rivaaj Indian ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Sarab Lounge International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

SAX International ✘ ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔

Scalini Italian ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

The Barn International ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

The Engine Room International ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Vine International ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Vintage International ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar 4020 4444

Al Mandaloun Waterfront Mediterranean, international ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Ahwet Zeitouna Lebanese ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Babel Lebanese ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Botanical Garden International ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Liang, Mandarin Orienta, Doha

Market by Jean-Georges, W Doha Hotel & Residences

HOTELS

Chotto Matte Nikkei

NAR

Roberto's

Sailor's

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa 4492 1555

Hunter’s Room & Grill

Luxe

Mix Lounge & Terrace

Sabai Thai

Seasonal Tastes

Waves

W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453 5000

COYA Peruvian

La Spiga by Paper Moon Italian

Market by Jean–Georges International

Ruya

Spice

Waldorf Astoria West Bay Doha 4008 9000

Peacock Alley

The Cortland Bar Continental

Ledoux French

Tribeca Market American, International ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Al Fayrouz Terrace Levantine ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha 4456 5656

Bywater International ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Peacock Alley International, afternoon tea ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘

Scarpetta Doha Modern Italian ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

SUSHISAMBA Doha Japanese/Brazilian/Peruvian ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

The Highmore International ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Wyld Erth Healthy ✔ ✘ ✔ ✘ ✘

Zulal Wellness Resort 4477 6500

Acacia Wellness ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔

Malbu Seafood ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Aizoon Wellness ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔

Al Sidr Wellness ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔

Masala Library, Fairmont Doha

NAR Doha, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar

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.

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 sparkling 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

Places to Dine

CLUBS AND BARS

ALWAYS TAKE YOUR PASSPORT/ID WHEN VISITING HOTELS

Al Mansour Suites

4020 8400 The Red Lion

Alwadi Hotel Doha –

MGallery Hotel Collection

Rooftop Lounge

4009 9999

Best Western Plus Doha 4424 0000

Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha 4009 5555

Bar

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 Hotel Doha – Old Town 4034 3333

Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas 4448 1234

Qureshi Bukhara, Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha

Roberto's, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar

CLUBS AND BARS

Rubix, Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

Scarpetta, Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha

GRAPES MASTERCLASS

Let us teach you how to enhance your grape appreciation with a masterclass conducted by our expert sommelier perfectly paired with a selection of cheese and cold cut. An added indulgence: decadent sweet treats perfectly paired with your grape experience.

LAST THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH QAR 260

CLUBS AND BARS

Magnum Hotel & Suites West Bay 4445 1555

Doha 4008 8888

Marriott Marquis City Center

Doha Hotel 4419 5510

Marsa Malaz Kempinski,

4035 5555

Doha 4045 5555

4428 1555

The Italian Job, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

Silk Road, DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd

CLUBS AND BARS

Saraya Corniche Hotel, Doha 4497 3777

Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort 4021 4000

Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton

Doha 4425 6666

4485 4444

The Restaurant, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort

The Oat House, Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences

B-Lounge, Doha. Creative Dining, High-End Mixology & Lifestyle Experiences.

With breathtaking marina views as the main backdrop, culinary and mixology events, celebrity guest DJs, and nightly entertainment, B-lounge provides an unforgettable experience to please any and all taste buds and music lovers.

For more information, visit www.bloungedoha.com or call +974 5080 4421.

©2024 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

ritzcarltondoha

Around Town Around Town

Places to Dine

AROUND TOWN

*Multiple locations, respective number listed

DANA CLUB

West Bay

4496 0600

International Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Weekend Brunch

LPM RESTAURANT & BAR

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

SPIKES

Doha Golf Club

4496 0716

Pan Asian Lunch, Dinner Serves alcohol

International Lunch, Dinner Weekend Brunch Serves alcohol

TUK TUK SAIGON

Fereej Bin Mahmoud

3079 8889

Vietnamese, Thai, Burmese Lunch, Dinner

AROUND TOWN

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 4416 0707

Barrio Fiesta Al Muthanna Complex, Salwa Road

Emirgan Sutis *Al Emadi

Square, TPQ

Grill* Al Nasr St

Barwa Tower

Salwa Road

4886

5287

5178

3855

Salwa Road

2345

Kountry Kitchen

AROUND TOWN

*Multiple locations, respective number listed

The Village* Salwa Road 4444 6601 Indian, Iranian

Tofu House* Al Jazeera St 4435 8678 Korean

Yee Hwa * Al Kinana St, Al Jazeera St 4441 9898 Korean, Japanese

Zahr El Laymoun Shoumoukh Towers 4444 9197 Lebanese

*Multiple locations

AL MUTHANA COMPLEX

Amara 4416 01707 Indian · Barrio Fiesta 4490 4886 Filipino

AL EMADI FINANCIAL SQUARE

Emirgan Sutis* 4037 5287 Turkish · Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443 7846 American, diner

CITY CENTER MALL DOHA

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

Inside The Majlis

By Ola Diab

One of the most important aspects of Qatari social culture is a space called the majlis, bringing men together to socialise.

The majlis is an important feature of socialising within the Qatari community and every Qatari house has a majlis, which is a men--only space where the host can greet his guests, relatives and friends without disturbing the female part of the household.

Qataris are usually private and conservative people where gender segaragation is a common aspect of their private and public lives. Ladies usually receive their friends and relatives inside their homes and have a special guests room set aside for this purpose.

The majlis is a purpose-built space outside of the house, near the main entrance. Traditionally, it is set up like a tent that is dark brown with thin white lines, replicating the traditional Bedouin tents of the nomadic people in Qatar. Wealthy individuals will have a large establishment near their homes, often with a kitchen and guest rooms. Families sometimes share a communal majlis and will often spend considerable time and money on its construction.

Usually open throughout the day, the host will usually ‘sit’ in the early evening and receive visitors with traditional coffee and dates, and sometimes for meals such as lunch and/or dinner. The majlis is a place to discuss current affairs, just chat or perhaps acknowledge your wish to know the host by asking a friend of his to take you. Senior colleagues or employees may occasionally visit as a sign of respect.

Some public spaces such as hotels, restaurants and cafés have majlis-inspired spaces.

Coffee

Drinking coffee or qahwa as well as tea is a popular pasttime in Qatar and in the Arab region, in general. Down the centuries, the Arabs in this area have refined the process of coffee-making and drinking into an art form. Legend has it that coffee-drinking began in Arabia almost 12 centuries ago. In Qatar, coffee is a treasured sign of a sense of occasion – hospitality to one’s guests – and an essential accompaniment to births, weddings and to get through funerals.

Arab coffee is always served in the majlis. Each guest is duty bound to accept at least the first serving of qahwa or risk insulting the host. The actual preparation of the coffee is traditionally a precise practice which has changed little over the last century.

Green coffee beans are roasted on an iron pan (mihmas) and once cooled are ground; traditionally with a brass pestle and mortar but today an electric grinder is often used. Cardamom seeds, ginger and a pinch of saffron are added and the qahwa is boiled and then served in the dallah (coffee pot). Qahwa is never sweetened; instead the fresh dates that are offered as the standard accompaniment to the aromatic brew sweeten the palate before each sip.

Equally important as the preparation is the ritual serving of the qahwa. Guests are served in order of seniority. The coffee maker approaches the guests with a pile of porcelain cups without handles in his right hand and the dallah in his left. Etiquette demands that an odd number of cups be accepted but once the guest has had enough, he tilts the cup rapidly from side to side to indicate he is replete.

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Places to Dine

FAST FOOD

*Multiple locations, respective number listed

Bombay Chowpatty

*Old Airport, five other locations

Burgeri Aspire Park

2100

3958

fast food, chaats

CinnZeo *City Center-Doha, Cinnamon rolls, Hyatt Plaza, The Mall 4469 7316 beverages, desserts

ChowKing *Dar Al Salam, Mirqab Mall, Hawdar Al Khail St

Fuddruckers *Khalifa Tennis Stadium, Ezdan Mall

6077

3983

Hot Chicken *Al Najma St, seven other locations 3058 3386

Johnny Rockets *Salwa Road/ C Ring Road Junction, three other locations

Jollibee *Old Airport, eight other locations

Mooyah *Al Sadd Sports Club, Al Jamiaa St

Factory The Gate Mall

Shake Shack *Villaggio, Gulf Mall, Mall of Qatar, DFC

2792

9492

4048

6500

9668

Shater Abbas *City Centre Mall, 10 other locations 4483 9230

Subway *Salwa Road, 26 other locations

Take Away *Al Sadd St, seven other locations

Thai Smile *Umm Ghuwailina, Barwa City

4043

7778

5222

The Chippy Bin Omran 5022 0126

Turkey Central *Al Nasr, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed St, Najma

3423

fusion, Chinese, Filipino

Filipino

burgers, milkshakes

Places to Dine

HEALTHY OPTIONS

A few choice dining options among many

and David Ezdan Hotel,

Provok, Fairmont Doha

Public House, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha

Healthy

EllaMia

Teas of the Arab World

Tea – and coffee – is an integral part of Arab culture and society served in various settings for centuries. Tea has a culture of its own. Known as shahi, shai or chai in the Arab world, it is a precious part of people's daily lives, served at homes, social gatherings, weddings, picnics and other outdoor gatherings, and even business meetings.

Most if not all of the teas in the Arab world are herbals teas, known to offer several health-promoting properties.

Just like the rest of the world, black tea is served across the Arab world in different variations – heavy or light, plain or mixed – but usually with milk at its base, infused with various spices and herbs. Beyond the black tea, here are other regional teas you should know and try:

Anise (Yansoon) Tea

With natural sweetness, anise tea is loved for its unique licorice-like flavour and soothing properties. It is made by simply steeping anise seeds in hot water for a few minutes until the water boils. It may also be infused into black tea. It can be used for upset stomachs, nausea and hiccups. It is especially used to treat babies with colic.

Cardamom (Hal) Tea

Although one of the most expensive spices in the world, cardamom tea – and coffee – is very common in the Arab world, widely adored for its strong aroma. It is infused with hot black tea or sometimes mixed with milk. It is known to help with digestion and increase the flow of saliva.

Chamomile (Baboonej) Tea

Chamomile tea is known all over the world as the calming tea that cures insomnia and anxiety. It is also popular in the Arab world especially the Levant region for the same reason. The tea is made by simply infusing the sweet smelling flowers in hot water. Lemon or honey may be added.

Karak Tea

A staple in Qatar and the Gulf countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Karak Tea is a spiced tea with milk, similar to Masala Tea. It is believed to have been brought to the Gulf by workers who arrived to the region from India and Pakistan in the 1950s. Key ingredients are black tea, milk, water, cardamom and sugar that are infused together and brought to a boil. Sometimes, cinnamon, ginger, saffron and vanilla extract can be added.

Mint (Na'na') Tea

Popular across the Arab world, Mint Tea is made either by boiling fresh mint leaves with water, or by simply adding the leaves directly to a hot black tea. Also well-known for its medicinal properties, mint tea is commonly used for getting over colds, sore throats, sinus congestion, gastric ulcers and seasonal allergies. With high antioxidants and vitamins, mint helps boost immunity and health. Some even resort to mint tea for headaches and pains. Sometimes, a slice of lemon can be added.

Yansoon

Hal

Baboonej

Karak Na'na'

Moroccan Mint Tea

Morocco has the most interesting and popular take on mint tea, which has made their tea well-known and highly recommended around the world. Known to the world as Moroccan Mint Tea, Shai Maghrebi to the Arab world and Atay Bi Na'na' to Moroccans, the much-loved tea is a combination of mint tea and green tea, made with gunpowder tea, fresh mint or spearmint leaves, water and sugar.

It is served with the teapot lifted high above the cup while pouring to aerate the tea nicely. It is usually served with Moroccan almond-based sweets.

Saffron (Za'faran) Tea

One of the most expensive spices in the world, saffron is a great digestive aid and its tea is a soothing, soul-warming beverage. It is important to the Qatari cuisine as well as other cuisines in the Gulf. It is a milk tea made with milk and black tea, infused with saffron.

Sage (Maramia) Tea

Native to the Mediterranean region, maramia tea is a popular across the Levant region in Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria. It is sage infused with hot water or black tea. With trichomes green leaves that turn grayish when dry, the strong aroma of maramia can be smelled throughout an entire house. Sage provides many medicinal benefits, along with an earthy, herbal taste. Known for helping with hot flashes, oral viruses, lymph nodes and muscle tension, sage offers a wide range of remedies.

Suliamani Tea

The name Sulaimani comes from the city of Sulaymaniyah in Iraq, where the tea is said to have been first brewed. Popular throughout the Gulf, it is a spiced black tea without milk with just three ingredients added: cardamom, cloves and lime.

Tea with milk (Shai haleeb)

In its simplest form, it's black tea with milk. Every Arabic country has its own take on tea with milk. The most popular is the aromatic Yemeni Tea or Yemeni Milk Tea, also known as Shahi Haleen or Shai Adeni (Adeni Tea), made with black tea brewed in condensed or evaporated milk. Cardamom and cloves are infused in the tea with added sugar.

Thyme (Za'atar) Tea

The culinary herb is essential to many cuisines in the region especially in the Levant region. Popular for its taste as well as its health benefits, the herb helps improve memory, cleans the stomach and prevents aging as its rich in antioxidants. It is made by simply steeping zaatar leaves or seeds in water for a few minutes until it boils.

Shai Maghrebi

Za'faran

Maramia

Shai haleeb

Za'atar

Suliamani

marhaba eats out...

Al Najada Hotel

Friday Late Breakfast Bliss at Canela Café

Author: Weslee Dizon

Picture a lovely weekend, where the winter weather is delightful and you crave a leisurely late breakfast in the serene ambience of Souq Waqif. Now, envision yourself at Canela Café, perched inside Al Najada Hotel, ready to enjoy an al fresco breakfast.

For just QAR99 per person, Canela Café offers a dining experience that brings together all breakfast favourites every Friday from 12 pm to 2:30 pm. We arrived with empty stomachs, and the inviting aroma of grilling breakfast sausages and meats warmly welcomed us.

Canela Cafe’s terrace, surrounded by trees and embraced by the morning sun, offers a delightful warmth amid the breezy winter weather. Seated outside, we relished catching up with friends while eagerly anticipating our food.

Live stations for hot pancakes, grilled meats, and egg dishes awaited us. Whether you choose a simple fried egg or a meticulously crafted omelet, each option promises a symphony of flavours, complemented by delectable homemade stone-baked sourdough bread. The Greek Mama and Truffle Lovers were personal favourites.

Beyond the signature egg-based delights, the expansive offerings included an array of flatbreads, each a canvas for an assortment of cheeses, cold cuts and a delightful selection of doughnuts, pastries, flaky croissants, muesli and fresh fruits—a symphony of tastes, textures, and aromas. The spread also features an assortment of sweets, providing a sweet note to complement the savoury delights.

And what is a breakfast experience without the perfect beverage to accompany it? At Canela Café, your morning delight is complemented with a choice of brewed coffee or freshly squeezed fruit juices. Simply ask your server, and they will gladly prepare a cup of aromatic coffee or a refreshing glass of fruit juice to enhance your dining experience.

The warmth extends beyond the weather, with the friendly staff adding a special touch to the atmosphere. I don’t know if it’s just the weekend energy, but everyone, from the servers to the chefs, radiated delight and joy.

So, the next time you yearn for a leisure weekend late breakfast, consider making Canela Café your destination. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s an invitation to savour the best of weekends in the heart of Souq Waqif. And when you’re done eating, you can go ahead and enjoy the rest of the day at Souq Waqif. No rush!

• Fridays, noon – 2:30 pm

QAR99 per person (all you can eat)

• 50% discount for children ages 6 to 11 years old

• Complimentary for children below 5 years old

For enquiries and bookings call or WhatsApp +974 5529 3149 m

marhaba eats out...

Maysan Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Lavish, Luscious and Luxurious

– That’s

Breakfast at La Casa, Maysan LXR Hotel

Author: Terry Sutcliffe

aysan Hotel is gorgeous; it was a royal Qatari palace now re-imagined, with loving care, into a characterful and beautifully decorated boutique hotel and restaurant suitable for modern day living and dining, where breakfast in La Casa

restaurant reflects the opulence and meticulous care that are the hallmarks of the brand. This includes La Casa Restaurant on The Pearl Island, well known as one of the best restaurants there and with an excellent and long standing reputation.

Service is a crucial part of the luxury breakfast experience and you are sure of attentive and courteous staff throughout your meal.

For an unexpectedly low price, considering the ambience, the selection is indeed lavish. You may wish to start off with a nice cup of coffee, and La Casa’s barista serves the perfect latte, cappuccino or flat white (among others), and there’s also a full selection of fresh, fresh, freshly squeezed juices to set you up for the breakfast properly.

The bread baskets have everything; yes, there are two, and one has those international favourites like croissants, danish and muffins and then there is Arabic bread and flatbreads – so, something for every taste and preference.

Then your table will begin to fill up with crudités, cheese and cold cuts, cold and hot mezzes, plus you can choose your favourite cereal or granola to be served with milk or yogurt.

Because of Qatar’s Middle Eastern heritage, you can experience a selection of traditional Arabian breakfast items like cold and hot mezze with hummus and labneh, a pastry platter with kibbe, cheese rolls, and individual meat and spinach pies.

Many people enjoy an egg (or two!) for breakfast and at Maysan’s La Casa you specify exactly what

you want – omelette, scrambled, boiled, pan fried, white egg frittata, poached, up to the ultimate eggs Benedict with its English muffin and trimmings. All are quite delicious, and that’s an unbiased opinion…

Shakshuka gives you eggs with an Arabian flavour and for those with an unquenchable Arabian addiction, Maysan La Casa can serve you foul moudamas - fava beans served in the traditional Middle Eastern way.

Just to make sure you leave fully satisfied, there are some sweet dishes to conclude with: the pancakes are scrumptious especially when adorned with fresh berries and drizzled with maple syrup, and French Toast, similarly adorned, drizzled now with caramel sauce and topped with a heavenly scoop of homemade ice cream.

It’s because of hotels like Maysan that Qatar is known for its opulent hospitality.

Maysan Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts, is easy to reach and to access. It’s on Al Furousiya Street, adjacent to Aspire Park.

Daily breakfast, from 9 to 11 am. QAR150 per person. For reservations and more details, call 4144 6666. m

marhaba eats out...

Fairmont Doha

A Gourmet Breakfast at Vaya!

Author: Harvey Vippond

Located within the heart of the Fairmont Doha lies Vaya. Here I embarked on a breakfast adventure that unfolded like a symphony of flavours, textures and international influences, all captured within the charming ambience of this Latininspired gem.

Although the buffet options were plentiful, I opted for a tailored experience from the menu.

My meal commenced with Huevos Rancheros – a true ode to Mexican culinary heritage. Nestled atop crispy corn tortillas, fried eggs harmonised with salsa, while black beans, cheese and creamy avocado elevated this dish into a work of art. The layers of taste and

crunch were a perfect introduction to Vaya’s culinary wisdom.

Teaming up with a colleague, we embarked on the Shakshouka, a Maghrebi masterpiece. Poached eggs with a rich sauce of tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, and an enchanting blend of spices, transported us to the vibrant streets of North Africa.

Our meal continued with the Eggs Royal – a testament to the fusion of English tradition and modern innovation. Poached eggs mingled with smoked salmon on an English muffin canvas. Crowned with hollandaise sauce, adorned with microgreens, cherry tomatoes, and broccolini, it was a dish that celebrated freshness, aesthetics and delectability.

Our palates were further tantalised by the presence of turkey bacon and sausage, accompanied by toast – a savoury addition that rounded out the diverse selection. Every element on the plate bore a testament to Vaya’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and satisfying dining experience.

The grand finale of our epic breakfast arrived with some Classic Waffles and French Toast. Both dishes were prepared with meticulous attention, adorned with a drizzle of maple syrup, and crowned with a medley of berries.

An astounding aspect of this exceptional experience was its accessibility, priced at a modest QAR150. This commendable value did not compromise on the quality, variety, or sheer delight of the offerings.

In a city full of dining options, Vaya stands out as a haven for those who seek an elevated breakfast experience.

The gourmet breakfast at Vaya, located at Level 1, Fairmont Doha, is available Sunday to Thursday, from 7 am to 11 pm, and on Friday and Saturday, from 7 am to 1 pm. The price per person is QAR150. For bookings, call 4030 7200 or send an email to dining.doha@fairmont.com. m

marhaba eats out...

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

A Real Parisien Petit Dejeuner at IZU French Restaurant

Author: Terry Sutcliffe

If you like French things, especially breakfast, and you live or work in the centre of Doha, you’ll be excited to have a top quality restaurant of this persuasion in the downtown area. IZU, by Chef Izu Ani, is a contemporary French/Mediterranean spot in the luxurious Mandarin Oriental, Doha. As soon as we enter the space, there’s an unmistakeable sense of calm. As you may know, for the French, food is a serious business…

Chef Izu Ani was brought up in London and has made French-Mediterranean cuisine a lifelong passion and speciality. He’s lived and cooked in France and Spain, this is what he does, and does fantastically well.

You get professional yet enthusiastic service and food with surprising layers of flavours, served in a luxurious décor and setting.

Everything about Chef Izu reveals his passion for using the best produce and presenting his dishes in the most delightful way. While not every dish can be a work of art, it is guaranteed that every dish will delight your eyes and tickle your taste buds while satisfying your hunger pangs.

We started with quick wake-me-up coffees. And whether cappuccino or flat white – delicious! Even the ‘izu’ etched onto the surface milk was an added ‘layer of flavour’.

What followed was a delightful breakfast. We enjoyed the signature Egg Benedict, one of many ways of enjoying eggs provided at Izu; one of our party particularly enjoyed their eggs on creamy avocado and brown toast. The only compliment I heard – in addition to the ‘mmm’s and ‘aaah’s – was ‘delicious’, and the compliments started on first sight, before even first taste.

We skipped through the menu and tried not to think about the pleasures we would be missing, with ‘tartines’ of this, ‘pain’, ‘plat’, ‘plateau’, ‘croquet’, ‘brioche’ of that – all these wonderfully evocative yet satisfying items of French vocabulary (and what about the tongue in cheek ‘pain perdu’. What indeed can you do with ‘lost bread’… So yes, there is a French sense of humour, if only in their cuisine…)

Modern day breakfast now may include granola, a pudding or a pancake. Words not even French but the concoctions have been seamlessly absorbed into the

practices and values of French cuisine, which is to source the best ingredients and lovingly create a dish that will delight. It may sound banal but the granola and yogurt was the best I’ve tasted (think homemade granola and acacia honey) and the chia pudding, wow, was exquisite with its coconut milk, full-flavoured fresh berries and, again, that acacia honey.

Meanwhile we were sampling the homemade pastries. I swear the Izu croissants and pain au chocolat are more French than French. The flakey pastry was perfect, and not everybody can make it even to a ‘good’ level.

IZU French/Mediterranean Restaurant

Ground floor, Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Breakfast à la carte from 9 am For bookings, call 4008 8888. 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

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

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marhaba eats out...

Waldorf Astoria Doha

West Bay

Tribeca Market’s Business

Lunch: A New York Flair at Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

Author: Weslee Dizon

Waldorf Astoria’s latest gem in Doha’s West Bay is more than just a business hotel; it’s a destination in itself. Among its treasures, a pride of the property is Tribeca Market – a name that resonates with the vibrant energy of New York City’s Lower Manhattan.

TriBeCa, the syllabic abbreviation for Triangle Below Canal Street, isn’t just a random name. It’s a nod to one of the most bohemian areas of New York, known for its famous celebrities, notable restaurants, luxury buildings, and breathtaking waterfront views. The connection to this iconic locale sets the tone for what you can expect at Tribeca Market.

Now, let’s talk about the reason we ventured into TriBeCa Market – their business lunch. Priced at QAR90 for two courses, and QAR110 for three, it’s a steal for the dining experience. The menu is a reflection of Executive Chef Thomas Jakobi’s culinary philosophy summed up in one word – Quintessence. For him, it’s all about mindful consumption, emphasising seasonal, sustainable, and local produce. The concept is embodied through five curated stations, each showcasing flavours inspired by the streets of New York.

For starters, we decided to try their Garden Salad, a medley of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, radish, pine nuts, artichokes, all harmonised by a citrus dressing. The Flamed Salmon nigiri followed, featuring sesame gel and beetroot pearls, elevating sushi to an art form. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, they have options like the Vegetable Roll and Creamy Burrata. Moving on to the mains, we were torn between the tempting choices. ‘The American Way of Preparing Brisket’ won our hearts with tagliatelle, BBQ sauce, and pecorino, while the Oven-roasted Glazed Turkey was party of flavours with red cabbage, brussels sprouts, carrots, and melted bread dumplings. The menu doesn’t stop there – from Atlantic Salmon to

the irresistible Metropolitan Burger, there’s something for every palate. And every week, they try to mix-andmatch items from their main menu, giving guests the element of a culinary surprise each time they visit.

Dessert was a sweet surrender to the Halva parfait, boasting caramelised pumpkin and chocolate sable, and the refreshing Exotic Fruit Platter with strawberry sugar, lemon jelly, and ice cream. If decisions are tough, there are daily fresh-prepared sorbets and a Dessert of the Day to surprise your taste buds.

In essence, Tribeca Market is something that should be on your radar if you’re looking for a great place to dine. Consider us thoroughly impressed. And here’s an exciting tidbit – we were told that during brunch, the entire place transforms into a lively market, with chefs and staff offering guests their delectable creations. It must be a fun and distinctive way to savour a weekend brunch at TriBeCa Market. We can’t wait to try it.

Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay is located in the Diplomatic Area, a 44-story tower with 283 Art-Decoinspired rooms, suites, and 50 apartments. Check out their offers this month here.

The restaurant itself is a marvel, a spacious haven divided into five different sections with live stations that invite guests to explore—from the fresh produce stall at the entrance to the bakery on the far end. Each station is manned by experienced chefs. It really takes a village! A special shoutout to the exceptional staff, especially our server Bianca and the restaurant supervisor Anthony, who went beyond their roles by giving us a personalised tour of the entire restaurant. True hospitality at its finest. m

Tribeca Market Business Lunch

Sundays to Thursdays, noon to 3:30 pm

QAR90 two-course set menu

QAR110 three-course set menu

For reservations or more information, call +974 4008 9000

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

Alwadi DohaMGallery Hotel Collection

The ‘Better than Ever’ Menu at Cila

Author: Maria Anicas

C marhaba eats out...

ila at Alwadi Doha - MGallery Hotel Collection has recently revealed an enticing new menu that invites diners to savour a unique gastronomic experience. “Cila” means “intelligent and wise” in the Arabic language which is a fitting representation of the restaurant’s approach to blending traditional Middle Eastern flavours with innovative culinary techniques.

Cila pays homage to the rich food culture and traditions of Qatar and the Middle East in general.

With a stunning interior inspired by traditional dhow boats, this restaurant takes diners on a voyage through time, blending old-world charm with a contemporary twist.

The restaurant’s ambiance immediately transports you to another era, evoking memories of seafaring traditions and the spice trade. It’s a setting that seamlessly blends history and modernity, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.

Starters

The adventure began with the Signature Mezze Platter, an assembly of flavours that included creamy hummus, rich walnut muhammara, and velvety avocado hummus, all perfectly paired with freshly baked bread. The Potato Harra, with its tempting blend of Harrisa paste, garlic, lemon and parsley was a fiery delight for the senses.

The Tempura Vine Leaves, a unique twist on a classic dish, offered a satisfying crunch and a delightful rice filling. The Lobster Rocket Salad, combining the succulent poached lobster tail with vibrant bell peppers and the zing of sumac and green apples, was a revelation. Lastly, the Fattoush Salad, with its fresh and zesty notes, was a refreshing interlude before the main courses.

Main courses

We had the Grilled Seabass served with a citrusy lemon butter sauce, which was a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to freshness. The tender, flaky fish practically melted in the mouth.

However, the undisputed star of our meal was the Tomahawk Steak, marinated for a remarkable 12 hours and cooked to a perfect medium. The first bite was an explosion of flavours that transcended the ordinary. The steak’s texture was a marvel in itself, boasting a tender, juicy quality that one can only dream of in a perfectly cooked steak. The medium doneness was spot-on, allowing the meat’s natural flavours to shine through. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, perfectly grilled vegetables and sautéed mushrooms, it was an experience to savour.

Desserts

The grand finale of our culinary journey was a trio of desserts that showcased the sweet side of Cila. The Crème Brulee was an exercise in perfection, with its delicate caramelised crust giving way to a velvety custard. The Chocolate Fondant, with its gooey center, was a chocoholic’s dream come true. The Halawet Aljeben, a delightful fusion of semolina and cheese dough adorned with pistachio berries, was a symphony of textures and flavours.

Each dish we were served from Cila’s new menu was carefully composed to surprise and delight the palate. The Lobster Rocket Salad and Tempura Vine Leaves stood out as delightful innovations, while the Tomahawk Steak was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a long-time patron or a first-time visitor, the new menu at Cila is a must-try. It offers a gastronomic adventure that is as intelligent and wise as its namesake.

If you’re interested to visit, Cila at Alwadi DohaMGallery Hotel Collection is open daily from noon to 11 pm.

For reservations, please call +974 4009 9999. m

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

The St. Regis Doha

Oriental BBQ Night

at Vine

Author: Maria Anicas

A marhaba eats out...

s the week draws to a close, there’s no better way to unwind than with a sumptuous feast at Vine, located within the luxurious confines of The St. Regis Doha. The Oriental BBQ Night at Vine provides the perfect opportunity to bid farewell to the stresses of the week and kick off the weekend with a mouth-watering experience.

Vine’s outdoor dining area offers stunning views of the pool and surroundings, the cool weather adds to the comfort, and a live DJ provides lively music. The spacious layout ensures that even on the busiest nights, guests can enjoy their dining experience without feeling crowded.

Our meal began with a hearty Lentil Soup paired with Arabic bread. For salads, we’ve tried the Kisir Salad or Quinoa Tabouleh for fresh and tasty bites. There’s also Couscous Roasted Vegetables Salad and Goat Cheese and Tomato Carpaccio for different textures, and the Fattoush Shots and Oriental Tomato Ceviche offer unique flavours.

The selection of hot mezze features traditional favourites like Kebbeh, Cheese Roll, and Spinach Fatayer. You can also indulge in savoury delights such as Sfeeha and Pide, and don’t miss out on the sweet interlude provided by Halaweh and Debes Rolls.

For those craving a taste of the familiar, the Shawarma Station offers chicken or meat wraps, customisable with an assortment of sauces and condiments. Meanwhile, the Pasta Station delights with its freshly made pasta dishes.

The crown jewel of Vine’s Oriental BBQ Night, the Kebab & Mix Grill Station showcases the artistry of grilling at its finest. Don’t miss out on the Lamb Kofta and Chicken Kebab or experience the smoky flavours of Fish Kebab Patties, and the tender juiciness of the Shish Taouk.

At the Charcoaled & Slow Roasted Beef and Harrah Lamb Leg Carving Station, guests are in for a treat that engages all their senses. Picture succulent beef and lamb slowly cooked over charcoal, absorbing all the rich flavours as they become tender and juicy. Alongside the meats, guests can indulge in a variety of sauces and side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts, creamy sweet corn, and crisp string beans.

A highlight of the evening is the Oriental Roasted Shishbarak and Sheikh Almakhshi Station, giving a taste of Eastern culinary traditions. The Roasted Shishbarak in yogurt sauce is a blend of creamy richness, perfectly complemented by herbed oil, pine nuts, and sumac.

As the evening winds down, guests can treat themselves to sweet delights at the dessert station, where there’s a range of delicious treats waiting to be enjoyed.

Enjoy the flavours of the Orient and the hospitality of Vine’s staff as you look forward to the weekend ahead. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or a special someone, Vine’s Oriental BBQ Night is the perfect opportunity to loosen up.

Oriental BBQ Night at Vine

Thursdays, 6 pm – 10:30 pm

QAR295 per person for regular package

QAR445 per person for alcohol package

For bookings or enquiries, call 4446 0127 m

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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

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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

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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

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Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Wednesday Nights at New York Steakhouse

Author: Ayen Molina

The New York Steakhouse, situated within the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, is a favourite among many patrons and presents an elegant setting that caters to aficionados of premiumquality meats.

Marhaba received an invitation to sample the Chateaubriand at New York Steakhouse. Upon arrival, we were promptly shown to our table. Shortly after, a bread platter was served featuring an assortment of sourdough bread, onion brioche, and milk bread,

each complemented by unique butter flavours: smoked paprika with almond butter and hazelnut, garlic parmesan, and lemon zest and seaweed butter. This was followed by a delectable amuse-bouche – a bite-sized tender Wagyu skewer paired with creamy mashed potato and truffle mayo. Moments later, our amiable server Khalid showcased a variety of unique knives. Given my smaller hands, I selected an Italian knife. Our culinary journey continued with the French method of steak preparation, showcasing a succulent 700-gram beef tenderloin accompanied by peppercorn and creamy mushroom sauces. The Chateaubriand was presented in two different cook temperatures to suit our preferences: one medium rare and one medium well. Both versions of the Chateaubriand were cooked to perfection, with a beautifully seared crust and a juicy pink centre.

Shortly after, the side dishes arrived – hand-cut French fries with parmesan cheese, wild mushrooms, and creamed spinach. The hand-cut French fries were perfectly crispy on the outside, while the wild mushrooms had a rich earthy flavour that complemented the Chateaubriand perfectly. The creamed spinach was velvety, adding a delightful contrast to the tender steak.

As the evening unfolded, we were treated to unique mocktails: the Mallow Sunset with its soothing blend and the Sourfizz revealing unexpected hints of coffee. These beverages added another layer of delight to our meal. The experience was beautifully rounded off by the melodious tunes of a live pianist, creating

an enchanting musical backdrop to a perfect dining experience.

Every Wednesday night, from 6 pm until 11 pm, the New York Steakhouse invites patrons to savour a quintessential French culinary delight, Chateaubriand, ideal for two to share for QAR500, paired with their choice of soda, mocktail, or juice. Wine enthusiasts may opt for the upgraded option, which includes a bottle of the house wine, available for QAR550, and also caters to two guests.

For more information and reservations, call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890. m

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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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Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

The Spice Route Experience at Al Fayrouz Terrace

Author: Ayen Molina

Marhaba recently had the opportunity to return to Al Fayrouz Terrace and experience their Silk Road set menu, otherwise known as Spice Route. Located on the first floor of the Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, the restaurant never fails to impress with its offerings.

Upon arrival, the welcoming staff greeted us, and Shefa, who recognised us from a previous visit,

promptly welcomed us back and offered beverages. The cool evening prompted for something warm, and Shefa recommended the Bronx Afternoon Excite—a unique blend of sencha tea with notes of bitter orange and juniper, an exclusive concoction for the Waldorf Astoria collection. We also sampled the ‘Hidden Oasis’ mocktail, a refreshing combination of non-alcoholic dark rum, pineapple, lemon, and a touch of mint.

Our meal began with warm, freshly baked pita bread served with three delectable dips: a sharp spicy labneh, a uniquely sweet date labneh, and a deepflavoured muhammara. Next came an assortment of appetisers: kibbeh, delicately enhanced with truffle oil and complemented by a light parmesan foam; tabbouleh with a surprising twist of tropical fruits; and the ever-comforting traditional hummus, rounding out the beginning of our Spice Route journey.

After the appetisers, we moved on to the main course. Guests had the choice of a mixed grill or lamb ouzi. The mixed grill, particularly the lamb chop, was exceptional, and the ouzi, with its succulent lamb and aromatic rice, was delightfully tender and rich in flavour.

The dining experience drew to a close with the arrival of a warm bowl of Umm Ali infused with orange blossom water, signaling the end of the flavourful journey.

The Spice Route experience at the Al Fayrouz Terrace is available every Thursday evening from 6 pm until midnight. Guests can indulge in a three-course set

menu for QAR 130 per person, exclusive of any drinks or extras. Alternatively, the set menu along with shisha is available for QAR 200 per person.

For booking or additional information, please contact us at 4008 9000 or send an email to waldorfastoriadoha.restaurants@waldorfastoria.com. m

Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

Levantine Experience at Al Fayrouz Terrace

Author: Ayen Molina

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n the first floor, right across the famous Tribeca Market in the iconic newcomer Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, you’ll find a hidden gem that offers a fusion of the rich flavours from the Silk Road with a modern twist. Underneath the blanket of stars, this outdoor oasis serves sharing-style mezze platters, one of their specialities.

Al Fayrouz Terrace presents a serene setting where you can also enjoy pleasurable sips of the finest

beverages available and unwind with some of the best shisha flavours.

The Levantine journey at Al Fayrouz Terrace begins with homemade pita bread and three flavourful dips that are a perfect introduction to the rich and vibrant cuisine of the Levantine region. These dips include spicy labneh, date labneh, and muhamara.

The cold Mezze was all beautifully presented: fattoush with pomegranate molasses sorbet, tropical tabbouleh with tropical fruits and hummus with king prawn. Each of these is a traditional Middle Eastern dish with a contemporary twist.

Following the cold Mezze was the hot Mezze consisting of Al Fayrouz rolls with akkawi cheese and kibbeh enhanced with truffle oil and parmesan foam –a favourite flavour profile!

Another well-presented dish arrived – fried Shish Barak. This dish is a true representation of Levantine cuisine, with its delicate dumplings filled with flavourful meat and the creamy yogurt and aromatic coriander sauce, and toasted pine nuts complementing each bite.

The amiable restaurant supervisor, Shefa, recommended two signature mocktails to enhance the evening: ‘Hidden Oasis’, a blend of non-alcoholic dark rum, pineapple, lemon, and mint; and ‘Spicy Gem’, a concoction of Arabic spiced Fayrouz blend, clove cordial, lemon essence and basil.

As the evening drew to a close, Chef de Partie Moath Yousef arrived with a large bowl of Umm Ali. However,

this was no ordinary Umm Ali; it was enhanced with orange blossom water. The aroma of the orange blossom water added a delicate and refreshing twist to the classic dessert, leaving a lingering fragrance in the air as we enjoyed our final bites of this indulgent treat.

The Levantine journey at Al Fayrouz Terrace in Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay provides a delightful experience for diners, with its fusion of traditional Levantine flavors and modern culinary techniques. Al Fayrouz Terrace is open daily, Saturday to Wednesday from 4 pm to midnight; Thursday and Friday from 4 pm to 2 am.

For more information and reservations, please contact +974 4008 9000. 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

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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 timing: Monday-Saturday 6 pm – 11 pm (closed on Sundays)

Surf & Turf

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

marhaba eats out... Maysan Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Steak Night at La Casa

Author: Terry Sutcliffe

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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Al Najada Hotel

Texmex & BBQ Night at Al Baraha

Author: Maria Anicas

Our recent visit to Al Najada Hotel’s newest offering, the Texmex & BBQ Night at Al Baraha Restaurant left us genuinely impressed, making it one of the most memorable theme nights we’ve experienced in a long time.

Our evening began with an overwhelming selection of creative salads, boasting unique and unfamiliar options – this immediately gave us the impression that the spread would be out of the ordinary. Standout choices for me were the Strawberry & Spinach Salad, along with the Southern Caesar Salad. The hot starters featured tempting options like Honey Garlic Chicken, Jacket Potatoes, Onion Rings,

Louisiana Chicken Wings, and Corn on the Cob. Each dish was really tasty that it posed a challenge not to fill up on these appetisers alone.

Live stations added an interactive element to the experience, with highlights such as pizza, quesadilla, sloppy joes, and a personal favourite, the bagel station. The outdoor grilling station allowed guests to customise their meat preferences.

The main courses continued the impressive streak with offerings like Mexican Rice, Chicken Pot Pie, Meatball Spaghetti, Mashed Sweet Potato, and Chili Con Carne. Each dish was packed with flavours, from the aromatic spices of the Mexican Rice to the richness of the Chicken Pot Pie, and the zesty kick in the Chili Con Carne.

Make sure you save some room for dessert, because the sweet section offers a delightful spread of cakes, cupcakes, and fresh fruits available. The sweet treats were not only pleasing to the eye, but for sure, to those with a sweet tooth as well.

The ambience at Al Baraha was inviting, with a spacious and well-lit indoor seating area. For those seeking a more laid-back setting, the outdoor seating option offered a relaxing atmosphere with the bonus of a captivating view of Souq Waqif.

Considering the extensive offerings and the high quality of the spread, the Texmex & BBQ Night at Al Baraha stands out as excellent value for money. Priced at a reasonable QAR250 per person and accepting vouchers, it not only satisfies the taste

buds but also caters to budget-conscious diners, ensuring a satisfying experience without breaking the bank.

Texmex & BBQ Night at Al Baraha

Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm

QAR250 per person

Vouchers accepted

For reservations, please call 4470 4444 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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Marsa Malaz Kimpinski, The Pearl –Doha

Let’s MEAT at Toro Toro’s Churrasco Night

Author: Maria

For those who relish the sizzle of perfectly seared steaks, the aroma of smoky barbecue, and the mouth-watering allure of grilled meats, there exists a special place every Thursday evening for you.

Toro Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha is a celebration of

Central and South American flavours, promising a unique twist on the modern steakhouse experience. Toro Toro takes you on a tasty tour of Latin America, highlighting Pan-Latin dishes and the Rodizio-style Churrasco.

We’ve recently tried Toro Toro Doha’s Churrasco Night, where carnivores reign supreme, and where steak and barbecue take centre stage. Churrasco Night, available every Thursday, marks the perfect kickoff to your weekend. It revolves around the Brazilian barbecue tradition of Churrasco, which originates in the 1800s with the Gauchos, and involves skewering and slow-grilling various meats over wood fire.

Seated by the window, we had a perfect view of Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s serene island, enhancing the ambience. The restaurant, with its perfectly dimmed lighting, sets the mood for a special evening, whether it’s a romantic date night or just an ordinary dining experience.

Our meal commenced with an array of starters – the freshly made guacamole burst with the freshness of ripe avocados, while the succulent Prawn Anticucho, with aji panca and char siu sauce, offered a blend of smokiness and spiciness. The Cheese Empanada was a pocket of comfort, oozing with cheesy goodness, while the Cachapas, a sweet corn pancake generously stuffed with creamy mozzarella cheese and served with a zesty pico de gallo, was a rollercoaster of flavours in the mouth.

The starters left us impressed and, quite frankly, tempted us to indulge more, but we eagerly anticipated the main event. And what an event it was!

The meat parade arrived at our table, and it was a carnivore’s dream come true. The Pollo Parilla, which is marinated chicken thigh with special spices, was incredibly juicy and bursts with flavours. The Grilled Picanha Steak, cooked just the way we liked it (not too rare, not too well-done), had a wonderful char on the outside and tender, juicy meat inside. And let’s not forget the Grilled Lamb Chops, marinated in a tasty adobo sauce, perfectly cooked and dripping with flavourful juices. What made it even better was that each piece was skilfully sliced right in front of us, adding to the excitement.

The main courses were complemented by a selection of side dishes, including grilled vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and a refreshing leaf salad that balanced the flavours.

Saving room for dessert was a wise decision because it let us enjoy the sweet ending to our wonderful meal. The Passionfruit Cheesecake was a lovely mix of tangy and sweet flavours. Then there was the Flan de Elote, a vanilla custard cake with caramel sauce, which was a delicious and indulgent treat. But the real star was the Brazilian Grilled Pineapple – it was like a sweet and smoky melody that ended our fantastic meal perfectly.

Churrasco Night at Toro Toro Thursdays, 6 pm – 10 pm

QAR275 per person with soft beverages

QAR350 per person with enhanced beverages

FREE for kids below 12 years old

For reservations, please contact +974 7794 1930 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

marhaba eats out...

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

marhaba eats out...

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

marhaba eats out...

Doubletree by Hilton Doha Downtown

La Serre: Enchanting French Cuisine Awaits, Along with a Series of Special Brunches

Author: Weslee Dizon

For many, Paris, France has forever been a dream destination, with its captivating cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks, and renowned cuisine. However, for those whose travel plans don’t yet allow them to experience the City of Lights, a delightful taste of Parisian culinary delights can be

savoured right here in Doha at La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie, inside Doubletree by Hilton Doha Downtown along C Ring Road.

La Serre’s ambiance is bright and inviting, with the whole restaurant painted in white, allowing the French artworks and designs to really pop, starting with the glass doors.

What I really loved about the restaurant’s interior are the floor-to-ceiling glass windows that bring an outdoorsy vibe indoors, allowing diners to relish the surroundings while savouring their meal within the comfort of the air-conditioned space—a perfect escape, especially during the challenging weather in Qatar.

Our visit was for the Bastille Day brunch, quite fitting for the culinary revolution which we experienced: a tableau of French dishes heroing simple ingredients but elevated by masterful techniques.

The brunch started with the Aperitif Maison, served alongside tuna tapenade and garlic croutons. Next up was the Tartare de Saumon, which was basically a salmon tartare, accompanied by a refreshing Salade de Pasteques, Menthe, Amandes et Feta—a harmonious blend of watermelon, almonds, feta, and mint.

We didn’t have to wait long for the main course. From the menu, three options were available, but we decided to get the Daurade Poelee, Poireau et Bisque, an interesting dish of pan-seared Seabream with mashed potatoes, leeks, and lobster sauce.

We also had the Epaule d’ Agneau Confite, Jus au Thum et a l’ Ail, featuring slow-braised lamb shoulder, ratatouille, potato terrine, and a thyme-infused sauce, which was a really tender and flavourful indulgence. What’s a French meal without cheeses? Adding sophistication to the meal was the Assiette de Fromages, showcasing an assortment of fine French cheeses served with sourdough bread—a true delight for cheese aficionados.

For a sweet conclusion, the Moelleux au Chocolat Noir arrived, a warm dark chocolate cake accompanied by a delightful raspberry sherbet that culminated our meal on a high note.

We wanted to stay longer, so we had a cup of coffee with assorted mini pastries.

La Serre offers a choice between a non-alcoholic package at QAR190 and an enhanced drinks package at QAR290, catering to various preferences.

In the coming weeks, La Serre promises to host special brunches like this, leaving patrons eagerly awaiting their next culinary adventure.

Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or an adventurous diner seeking a taste of Paris, La Serre promises a memorable dining experience in the heart of Doha. So, indulge your senses and let the flavours of France enchant you. Stay tuned for the upcoming special brunches, and bon appétit!

La Serre is open daily from 6 am – 11 pm. Call 4446 8888, transfer to 8846 for reservations. m

AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton

Mamamia Buffet: Italian Cuisine

Experience at Mezzo

Author: Marrian Magtira

I marhaba eats out...

f you are down for a Friday midday feast that boasts the flavours of Italy, come and visit AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton’s Mezzo restaurant.

Upon entering the restaurant, we were immediately drawn to the enticing aroma wafting from the dishes arranged along the buffet line. The spread offers a lavish feast, spanning from appetisers to desserts. The diversity of their menu line is surprisingly impressive; just by the presentation of each meal, it ensures there’s something for every palate.

They offer a wide variety of appetisers, including an inviting salad bar, generously stocked charcuterie boards, and an assortment of fresh greens and vegetables for guests to customise their salads. Additionally, their selection of appetisers includes delectable options like mozzarella sticks, aubergine parmesan poppers, and mushroom cheese arancini.

The dining experience becomes even more exciting with the extensive selection of main courses available. For lamb enthusiasts, their roasted lamb leg is highly recommended! Additionally, they offer a diverse range of main dishes, including seafood, beef, and vegetarian options. Following the main courses are freshly baked breads, each perfectly prepared and delightfully fresh. Bread enthusiasts will surely find joy with these selections.

Their dessert station is a paradise, featuring an ice cream and candy bar, a chocolate fountain, and an assortment of marshmallows and breads for dipping. Additionally, there are various options of panna cotta, tarts, and cakes to choose from.

The Mamamia Italian buffet is totally inclusive, making the experience ideal for the whole family.

With a wide range of dishes to choose from, everyone is guaranteed to leave with satisfied bellies and a memorable experience.

Mamamia Italian Buffet

• Fridays, 1 pm – 4 pm

• Price: QAR99 per person

For bookings and enquiries, contact 4489 9000 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

marhaba eats out...

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl –Doha

View Brunch: A Friday

Dining Escape at The Secret Garden

Author: Marrian Magtira

icture yourself on a Friday, sitting at the rooftop with an overlooking view of the breathtaking scene of The Pearl waterfront and the panoramic skyline, where the weather is pleasant, and the atmosphere is solely inviting. Situated at the top of

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Secret Garden serves you the seamless experience for a Friday brunch escape – delightful and serene.

After a long hustling week, everyone deserves good food and good ambience on a Friday. Priced at QAR395 (inclusive of enhanced beverages) and QAR295 (inclusive of soft beverages) per person, the View Brunch presents a huge variety of food from artisanal collection of cold cuts, ideally crafted dishes, and diverse selection of desserts.

As we arrived right on time, the buffet’s capturing aroma welcomed us. Seated just in front of the performing live band, we enjoyed the soulful music while savouring the starters. The selection for their starters was diverse, featuring hot and cold appetisers, curated cheese assortment and a variety of European breads; all of them promises an enticing flavour. The Tuna Tataki and the Cocktail were our top picks, both delightfully melting in our mouths best paired with their Passionfruit Margarita.

Aside from the extensive appetiser selection, there is a live pasta station where you can choose your preferred pasta, whether you’re a fan of penne or gnocchi. They offer a variety of options to cater to your preferences. The table also enjoys a sharing platter featuring Croquettes, Chicken Musakhan, Pepperoni Pizza, and Prawn Satay – all served hot and fresh from the kitchen.

And what makes their brunch exceptional? Their individually served main course! They have plenty of selections to choose from, but our pick was the Smoked Beef Brisket with rice, refried beans, and Pico de Gallo – which didn’t disappoint. It boasted an

ideal tenderness, thanks to its generous marbling, and presented a delightful harmony of flavours.

Wrapping up the brunch experience, we’ve tried out some of the desserts from the buffet selection. They also have an ice cream station where you choose the flavour you want and mix it up with any toppings of your choice! It was a huge assortment of dessert to satisfy the guests’ sweet tooth, but our personal favourites were the Saffron St Honore and Mango Maharaja.

The experience goes beyond just the food and the view; with live entertainment and a welcoming staff, the atmosphere creates an ideal setting to start your weekend.

So, consider making your way to The Secret Garden if you’re planning to spend your Friday filled with joy and enchantment. It’s more than just a secret garden, it’s absolutely a secret haven to relish good view and good food with good company!

• Fridays, 1 pm – 5 pm

• QAR395 per person (with enhanced beverages), QAR295 per person (with soft beverages)

• Adults only

• Guests can enjoy The Liquid Brunch at 5 pm – 7 pm, with a special price of QAR100

For enquiries and bookings call 5035 5011 or Whatsapp 7479 0864 m

marhaba eats out...

The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The

Pearl

Culinary Carnival: Il Circo Brunch at Roberto’s Every Friday

Author: Weslee Dizon

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to Il Circo Brunch, where the ordinary is left at the door, and the extraordinary steals the spotlight.

Il Circo Brunch takes place every Friday at Roberto’s, inside St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar. The circus-themed brunch promises a full-blown dining spectacle, and it surely does not disappoint. It’s not just a meal; it’s a whirlwind of flavours, fun, and jawdropping live performances that left us saying, ‘Did that really just happen?’

The vibrant circus theme isn’t just in the decoration – colourful balloons, clowns, the music, and the atmosphere are vibrant. It’s filled with laughter, the clink of glasses, and the irresistible aroma of culinary delights.

The menu for the brunch is a carnival of flavours, featuring trapeze-worthy seafood platters, Italian favourites like pasta, pizza, and succulent meats that juggle wonderful taste and creativity. Even the names of every dish were carefully thought out to match the theme.

As we were enjoying the food, we were surprised by live performances – jugglers, illusionists, and other talented performers, seamlessly weaving their acts into our dining experience. This isn’t just a brunch; it’s a front-row seat to an interactive great show!

The circus wouldn’t be complete without a stellar cast, and at Roberto’s, the staff plays their part with gusto. Friendly, attentive, and fully immersed in the circus spirit, they’ll make sure your brunch experience is nothing short of magical. Need a recommendation? They’ve got you covered. Special dietary requests? Consider it done. The service at Roberto’s isn’t just efficient; it’s part of the grand spectacle.

So, if you’re ready to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary, put on your imaginary top hat and join the circus sensation at Roberto’s. This isn’t just brunch – it’s a myriad of colours, flavours, and performances. Roll up, roll up, and prepare for a brunch adventure that will have you talking about it long after the curtain falls!

Il Circo 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...

Shanghai Club, JW Marriott

Marquis City Center Doha

Shanghai

Brunch: A

Taste of Henan by Chef Weiguang Kong

Author: Ayen Molina

What was once the Koi Brunch, the newly rebranded Shanghai Brunch at JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha has transformed into a display of authentic Cantonese cuisine with a nod to Henan’s rich flavours, all presented with a contemporary flair. Crafted by Chef Weiguang Kong, the refreshed menu offers an array of dishes that artfully blends diverse flavours and aromas for a complex and satisfying dining experience.

The appetiser course began with an impressive array of selections, starting with a dim sum platter of mushroom truffle, chicken and shrimp followed by the subtly spiced Sichuan crispy chicken, and the earthy flavours of black fungus mushrooms – a personal favourite! Added to these were shrimp nam rolls, a variety of assorted sushi and Shanghai beef dumplings. To round out the experience, Peking Duck offered a succulent taste of the region’s traditional cuisine.

To complement the range of exquisite dishes, two refreshing mocktails were served: the Lemongrass Soda and the Mixed Berry Mocktail – perfect for cleansing the palate. Adding to the dining pleasure, a musical duo performed live, setting a refined and captivating mood that enhanced the brunch experience.

As the main course arrived, we were served a generous portion of BBQ Ribeye, expertly grilled

to perfection. Paired with the steak was a dish of Wok-Fried Singaporean Lobster, delivering a notable spiciness that perfectly intertwined with the lobster’s inherent sweetness, enhanced by the vibrant kick of a piquant Singaporean sauce. Accompanying these were equally tempting side dishes: a hearty bowl of Yeung Chow Fried Rice, rich with egg, shrimp, vegetables, and XO sauce, and Shan, XI Laman noodles accompanied by crisp bok choy and bean sprouts –yet another dish that won my favour.

As the meal drew to a close, a platter arrived enveloped in dry ice, presenting an array of bite-sized desserts – glutinous rice balls, chocolate balls, cake with passion fruit sauce, crème brûlée, kulfi ice cream – and a platter of exotic fruits including mangosteen, star fruit, and dragon fruit, evoking the essence of summer.

The ambience of the brunch complements the gastronomic journey, with stylish décor and meticulous service. Special acknowledgment goes to Eltin, our dedicated server. The Shanghai Brunch is an exquisite fusion of East meets West, offering a memorable dining experience that lingers on the palate long after the last bite.

The Shanghai Brunch offers a four-course sharing menu every Friday, from 1 pm to 4 pm. Guests can choose from two packages: the soft beverage package for QAR250 or the enhanced package for QAR350.

To make reservations, call or WhatsApp 5203 8176 or 4429 5295. m

Waldorf Astoria Doha

A marhaba eats out...

Author: Terry Sutcliffe

t Waldorf Astoria it’s guaranteed you will experience effortless luxury and elegant service. And now a new Waldorf Astoria is in the centre of Doha, like the original Waldorf Astoria which burst

onto the scene in the centre of New York city and became an absolute magnet for top businessmen, politicians and artists, where the rich and famous of that era flocked to and courted publicity and indeed stardom.

It was by excelling in all fields that The Waldorf Astoria became the very epitome of success. In service, facilities, accommodation and indeed cuisine, with which we are concerned here, there is no expense spared to create the best experience.

If you’re expecting fast food and cowboy hats, this is definitely not the place for you. The Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay and its Tribeca Market reflect cosmopolitan New York and especially the area in Lower Manhattan known for its famous celebrities, diverse restaurants, its amazing cityscape plus breathtaking waterfront views – a bohemian enclave where the most prized qualities include creativity and individuality.

Tribeca Market is impressively large, and full of life. It has a wonderful atmosphere, lots of people, lots of staff, lots of activity. Divided into curated stations, you’ll find near the entrance the fresh greens, so many salads and dips, past the refreshing drinks bar you have the carvery, turn left and you’ll see the intricate Japanese and Chinese creations being formed, there’s a sandwich counter with rolls of Long Island Lobster and Atlantic Salmon to name just two, further over there’s a bakery section (love the sourdough!), a cheese section with some names I hadn’t seen before and of course a very colourful and enticing dessert section.

You can feel the energy and creativity; multi-talented staff confidently showcase their diverse skills. By the

way, I forgot to mention the exotic seafood and caviar – make that a selection of different caviars – and how could I except to say that the restaurant is a hive of activity, not to mention also the singer and accompanist who add melodic ambience to your appetite.

Staff are proactive and seem to anticipate your needs. The menu and drinks were shown and, when asked, recommendations were there. The drinks flowed including an Italian sparkling white, dubbed ‘poetic’ and that Spanish staple, Sangria, an ideal drink to accompany an international brunch. Different chefs were all eager to offer a taste of their delectable and distinctive creations. The Chinese chef was very helpful in his explanations, and the French Pastry chef brought over a small freshly baked loaf after we had mentioned how we liked sourdough; the same chef, towards the end of our meal (so perfectly timed!) presented us with a heavenly honey-soaked crêpe. Délicieuse!

After the tasty starters, sushi and other mini delicacies, we moved to the Main Course. Whether you like oven-roasted striploin, slow-cooked brisket or a real Atlantic Salmon, they are cooked to perfection with a wonderful and varied selection of potato and French beans – culinary treats in both texture and taste. There are also burgers on the menu, here made with real Black Angus beef and accompanied by gruyere, comté and shallot marmalade, oven-roasted turkey with all the so-tasty trimmings, spaghetti and Middle-eastern mixed grill, so there’s absolutely something – and something really nice – for everyone.

Cheeses were white, yellow and blue, hard and soft, round and square, triangular and cylindrical, from goat and cow with lots of seeds and dried fruit to accompany. Equally diverse and plentiful are the sweet desserts – cute little works of art, large and small bowls of sensual indulgence, sweet surrender to slices of fruit tart and an awesome, fantastic full Opera Cake.

Thoroughly recommendable. It’s a great and fun place to experience – a delicious and satisfying brunch on so many levels.

THE BRUNCH at Tribeca Market is offered every Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Packages:

Soft drinks – QAR300; Kids (6–11 years old) –QAR150; Enhanced beverages – QAR450

For more information or to book your table call 4008 9000 or email waldorfastoriadoha.restaurants@waldorfastoria.com. 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...

Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

Friday Brunch at Choices: A Brunch to Beat!

Author: Maria Anicas

Trying brunches is always a treat, and our recent Marhaba escapade led us to Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha’s Choices restaurant to experience their newest brunch offering, the ‘Brunch and Beats’. In the ever-evolving tapestry of Doha’s culinary scene, and with countless of offers to choose from, ‘Brunch and Beats’ has emerged as a shining star, greeting the town with a unique blend of culinary mastery and musical vibes.

The diversity of the brunch is impressive, spanning a spread of cuisines that ensures there’s something for every palate. From Spanish and Indian to

Mediterranean, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese, the array of dishes is nothing short of outstanding.

The brunch kicked off with an inviting selection of starters, featuring Arabic mezze, a vibrant salad station, and an assortment of cold cuts. Sushi and sashimi aficionados will find joy in the dedicated section, while seafood enthusiasts can indulge in the treasures of the sea at the shrimp, mussel, and oyster corner.

The brunch gets even more fun with live stations where you can grab nachos, shawarma, pasta, and watch a cool raclette station in action. One must not miss the seafood paella—it’s a must-try that perfectly captures the deliciousness of this Spanish classic. Heading outside, the live grilling station and the roast with Yorkshire pudding are available for meat lovers.

Stretching across a long table, the dessert corner boasts an impressive array of sweet treats, complemented by an ice cream selection and a flowing chocolate fountain with fruits, brownies, and candies.

As diners savour their meals, a live band sets the perfect ambiance, contributing to the lively and enjoyable atmosphere. The family-friendly nature of the brunch is further emphasised by a dedicated kids’ area, complete with balloon artistry and face painting to keep the little ones entertained.

Brunch and Beats at Choices sets a high standard for brunch experiences in the city. With its diverse menu, live entertainment, and a family-friendly vibe, this brunch is indeed one to beat.

Brunch and Beats at Choices

Fridays, 1 pm – 4 pm

QAR300 per person

Available on The Entertainer, MyBook & Urban Point

For bookings or more information, call +974 4141 1234 or WhatsApp +974 6608 5806 m

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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

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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

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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

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Park Hyatt Doha

New Sora Sky Brunch

Author: Weslee Dizon

Picture this: you’re on the 21st floor of the Park Hyatt Doha, overlooking the magnificent Doha skyline and the shimmering sea. Your senses are about to commence a flavourful adventure that fuses Japanese finesse with international flair. Welcome to the revamped Sora Sky Brunch, the latest sensation in Qatar’s thriving brunch scene.

Now, what’s in a name? Sora means ‘sky’ in Japanese, and it’s perfectly fitting because this culinary haven sits high above, offering breathtaking panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram feed pop!

As soon as you step into the inviting ambience of Sora, you’ll feel the excitement in the air, with live music playing in the background. Trust me: this brunch

isn’t just about savouring delicious food; it’s about breaking barriers and having a blast with friends and strangers alike. By the end of it, you might find yourself on your feet, dancing like no one’s watching – and that’s the kind of fun we all need after a long work week!

One of Sora’s standout features is its outdoor seating area, promising an even more enchanting experience as Qatar’s winter season approaches. Imagine indulging in world-class cuisine while basking in the mild Doha breeze and those mesmerising skyline views.

Now, let’s talk food – the real star of the show. Executive Sous Chef Fabio Fioravanti, Head Chef Edwin Santa Ana and team have crafted a culinary symphony that’ll leave your taste buds singing. The brunch spread is a tantalising tour de force, thoughtfully spread across different sections of the restaurant.

Start your journey with antipasti, salads, freshly rolled sushi and sashimi, ceviche, fresh oysters, and a poke bowl that’s bursting with flavour, or the donburi at the hot appetisers section.

Move on to the live stations, where you can watch your lobster rolls, robata grilled delights, and tempura dishes come to life.

Don’t miss the Japanese classics like Yaki Soba Chicken, Steamed Sea Bream, and Japanese fried rice, which are prepared to perfection.

The roast station offers melt-in-your-mouth brisket and pepper beef, accompanied by delectable sides.

And of course, there’s the dessert station, a sweet paradise where you can indulge your sweet tooth.

Wash it all down with a choice of packages – from non-alcoholic options to grapes and brews, or even bubbles for those looking to add some extra sparkle to their day.

Sora Sky Brunch is a Friday affair, running from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. Prices are as follows:

• QAR329 per person, including non-alcoholic beverages.

• QAR449 per person, with grapes and brews.

• QAR489 per person, for those who want to add some bubbly to their brunch.

For reservations, give them a call at +974 4009 4344 or drop them a WhatsApp message at +974 3158 7941.

You don’t want to miss this spectacular brunch with a view that’s as stunning as the food is delicious. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that’ll leave you craving for more. Cheers to Sora Sky Brunch –where the sky’s the limit for culinary delight! m

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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

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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