When it comes to the culinary scene in Doha, there is a serious abundance of mouthwatering options from a global palette. The city as been gaining so much notoriety that many celebrity chefs have been flocking here to set-up shop. Due to the country's conservative take on alcohol, many of the best restaurants are located inside hotels to appease foreign guests many whom appreciate a stiff drink as much as they appreciate Michelin-star cooking. No matter what hotel you're staying at in the city, be sure to venture out to experience some memorable fine dining. We round 8 you should consider reserving on your next trip.
Image courtesy The St. Regis Doha.
1. Opal by Gordon Ramsay | The St. Regis Hotel Doha
Bistro-style dining with fantastic views of the sea, it's a laid-back menu here with favourites including the "Opal Angus" burger, Chicken Shawarma pizza and Mac & Cheese side. Ideal for a casual lunch with friends or a pre-spa meal, if you have room save for the Traditional Eton Mess dessert.
Best for: Relaxed lunch with friends
Image courtesy W Hotels.
2. Market by Jean-Georges | W Doha Hotel & Residences
Serving up contemporary European cuisine sprinkled with Arabian flavours, there is a huge selection of meats and seafood ranging from Canadian Lobster to Grilled Lamb Chops. You'll also find sushi, pizza and pasta to round out the expansive menu. One of their popular selections is the Burger Menu, featuring 6 types of burgers (aside from the traditional beef) including a salmon, turkey and Portobello.
Best for: Meat lovers
Image courtesy Hakkasan.
3. Hakkasan Doha | The St. Regis Hotel Doha
The third Hakkasan in the region, this modern Chinese restaurant is distinctly elegant with hints of traditional Chinese design. Food-wise it's a straight-up Chinese menu with dishes like Grilled Shanghai Dumplings, Spicy Roast Chicken with Szechuan sauce and Peking Duck. Dim Sum lovers don't fret. They also offer a set-menu style "brunch" with Chinese lunch favourites.
Best for: A taste of China in Qatar
Image courtesy Ritz Carlton.
4. Parisa | Sharq Village & Spa
An elegant setting at the Ritz-Carlton owned Sharq Village & Spa, you'll find a Persian menu will Middle Eastern favourites done in a contemporary way. Expect to find traditional ingredients and flavours like eggplant, mint, pistachio, olives and saffron. The dishes are bursting with flavour and beautifully presented. For mains lamb and chicken dominate, and taste fantastic when grilled. Don't pass up the saffron ice cream -- it's lovely.
Best for: Elegant Middle Eastern cuisine
Image courtesy Four Seasons.
5. Nobu Doha | Four Seasons Hotel Doha
One of the largest Nobu's at 26,000 square feet, the design in itself is worth the meal with its circular tri-level architecture and commanding panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Offering brunch with live stations and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, an impressive cocktail list for their daily happy hour, plus an extensive dinner menu, this is a must visit for those who love Japanese cuisine and of course, sushi.
Best for: A celebratory evening out
Image courtesy La Varenne Doha.
Located on the 28th floor of Doha's iconic Tornado Tower, there is where you come in the city to get a taste of French cuisine at its finest. Boasting its own on-site bakery (yes there are croissants baked every morning), the interior is refined without being stuffy and thanks to its vertical location also has excellent city views. Breakfast options include quiche, homemade granola, fresh crepes and eggs florentine to name just a few.
Best for: Brunch with a view
Image courtesy Kempinski Hotels.
7. Toro Toro Doha | Marsa Malaz Kempinski
Emerging from the brain of Celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval, this Pan Latin style restaurant showcases cuisine from all over Latin and South America in a vibrant atmosphere. Menu items include beef empanadas, ceviche, Churrasco Skewers, and signature sharing plates. There's an extensive beverage list too, including the classic Pisco Sour cocktail and wines from Chile and Argentina.
Best for: Lively night out
8. IDAM by Alain Ducasse | Museum of Islamic Art
Alain Ducasse brings French haute cuisine to the Middle East with his first restaurant in the region, and it's inside none-other than the incredible Museum of Islamic Art. The menu has a Mediterranean flair with Middle Eastern influences. Dishes include Tender octopus, potatoes infused with saffron, Camel calf, local fish with Egyptian rice and foie gras with truffles. The design is awe-inspiring thanks to designer Philippe Starck making it a memorable meal all around.
Best for: Art lovers
