Qatar is slowly developing into a hub for travellers and culinary connoisseurs. The country’s capital, Doha, is hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, which means increased tourism. If you’re one of the many visiting, here’s your guide to the best (and the fanciest restaurants) in Doha for a delicious bite. Happy travels! By Anushka Goel
Since the beginning of the year, Doha has been in a whole new spotlight. Reason? The upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup will be hosted there. The football event is definitely the biggest in the entire world, and sees ardent fans from across the globe reach the host country to catch a glimpse of their favourite players battling it out on the field.
For the uninitiated, FIFA isn’t the only reason behind the popularity this Middle Eastern country enjoys. Its capital, Doha, is located along the east coast of Qatar and offers some of the most scenic beaches with clear water and glistening sand. The city has beautiful mosques that speak of history and modernised buildings to amplify its status as a modern, fast-paced destination. Add to this gastronomic cuisine and a rich cultural heritage, and you have the recipe for the makings of an untapped travel gem right in front of you.
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If you’re travelling to Doha any time soon (be it for FIFA or otherwise), you’ll definitely want to check out its extraordinary gastronomic scene. From Middle eastern delicacies to authentic world cuisine, the restaurants in Doha serve them all. So no matter your preferences, there will be a cuisine for you.
So, if you’re in the city, these restaurants are a must-visit for all your gastronomical needs!
Restaurants in Doha you must try
If you’ve visited Hakkasan in Mumbai (PS: it’s a celeb-favourite restaurant in the city!) and crave the same delicious Cantonese flavours on your visit to Doha, look no further. Hakkasan in Doha serves the yummiest dim sums, brunches and more. Pair these with a refreshing cocktail as you settle into one of their plush sofas, and you’ll be spoiled like never before!
Where: St Regis Doha, West Bay, Doha
Price for two: INR 15,727 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @hakkasandoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @hakkasandoha/Instagram
The cosy lounge, overlooking the Persian Gulf, is the perfect spot for a romantic date with our partner. The restaurant serves authentic Southeast Asian cuisine that will have you revel in the flavours like never before. Enjoy street cuisine from across the region, sushi, dim sums, and a family-style dining environment to make the most of your visit.
Where: W Doha Hotel & Residences West Bay, Doha
Price for two: INR 13,470 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of Spice Market Doha
Image: Courtesy of Spice Market Doha
There’s no place that defines Japanese cuisine like Nobu. You must have seen Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, who co-founded the restaurant with actor Robert De Niro, on previous seasons of Masterchef Australia (and yes, he also taught you how to eat sushi!). The restaurant offers bespoke Japanese cuisine that’ll bring you closer to fine-dining flavours like no place else can and their sushi is seriously one of the best that you’ll ever eat.
Where: Nobu Doha, Four Seasons Hotel, The Corniche, P.O. Box 24665, Doha
Price for two: INR 15,495 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @nobudoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @nobudoha/Instagram
The restaurant is inspired by the vibrant Latin American culture, elements of which you will see throughout the restaurant. The place serves Peruvian dishes, made using Chinese, Japanese and Spanish cooking techniques, blending cultures in the most immersive way. Indulge in their set lunches, brunches, or a la carte dishes such as tacos and maki rolls, as you wash it all down with some refreshing and indulgent drinks.
Where: COYA, W Doha Hotel & Residences, Diplomatic St, Doha
Price for two: INR 13,475 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of COYA Doha
Image: Courtesy of COYA Doha
If Thai flavours are what you crave for, Saffron is your answer. The restaurant offers elevated versions of Thai classics such as tom yum soup, fried rice and braised chicken green curry. The flavours will take your tastebuds on a ride, and the impeccable presentation of the cuisine will make you want to snap away for the ‘Gram! All this against the stunning Doha skyline makes it one of the top restaurants in Doha.
Where: Banyan Tree, Al Khaleej Street, Doha
Price for two: INR 7,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @saffrondoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @saffrondoha/Instagram
The sophisticated and elegant fine-dining restautant has a 16-seater sushi bar. Watch delicious plates of food being made and served to you, or sit in the main dining area for a more relaxed yet luxurious feel. The place also has exclusive private dining rooms for business meetings, exclusive dinners and lots of privacy.
Where: West Bay Lagoon, Doha
Price for two: INR 13,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @morimotodoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @morimotodoha/Instagram
La Mar Doha by Gastón Acurio is yet another place that offers Latin American/Peruvian flavours. Perfect for an evening outing, La Mar is great for special occasions. The menu consists of dishes that have been given a Japanese twist. Indulge in delicious tiradito, charcoal-grilled meats and various other offerings, as you soak in the beautiful Doha beaches.
Location: Beachfront, InterContinental Doha
Price for two: INR 5,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @lamardoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @lamardoha/Instagram
Smat in Arabic means dining table, which we feel is quite an apt name for a restaurant serving Qatari classic dishes and those from the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council). This means that you will be able to indulge in some gastronomic flavours in terms of meat, spices, textures and flavour profiles. From rich gravies to light, flavourful notes, experience them all!
Where: Corniche Doha, Near Rass Abu Aboud Signal, Doha
Price for two: INR 9,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @smatrestaurant/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @smatrestaurant/Instagram
If you’re in the mood for some steak, head to STK Doha for an indulgent meal. The modern steakhouse is also a chic lounge, and provides you the perfect blend of comfort and cuisine. The place is also a nightlife hub in the city, and will make your days and nights all the more fun!
Where: 23rd Floor of The Ritz-Carlton Doha, West Bay Lagoon, P.O. Box 23400, Doha
Price for two: INR 11,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of STK Doha
Image: Courtesy of STK Doha
CUT by Wolfgang Puck is a classic American steakhouse, which has some of the best offerings in the city. Right from the floating staircase to the calming, serene ambience, there’s thought in every step. The cuisine features the finest steaks (beef) and other product, including locally sourced ingredients that are cooked and presented with perfection.
Where: Mondrian Hotel, West Bay Lagoon Doha
Price for two: INR 9,000 (approx)
Image: Courtesy of @cutdoha/Instagram
Image: Courtesy of @cutdoha/Instagram
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of @saffrondoha/Instagram
Related: NAO By Berco’s Is The Perfect New Place To Satiate Your Asian Food Cravings
Written By
Anushka Goel
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
