36 of The Best Restaurants In Doha
From fine dining to fusion cuisines, Bazaar Qatar shares 36 of the best restaurants in Doha
On the hunt for the best restaurants in Doha? Bazaar Qatar‘s team shares their favourite picks here. (And what about elsewhere in the GCC? Looking for the best restaurants in Dubai and the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi? Click here.)
Doha is fast becoming home to various world-renowned chefs and internationally acclaimed restaurant chains. Nestled on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, the city is perhaps an untapped gem when it comes to its unique and rich food and beverage landscape.
From feasting on traditional Middle Eastern delicacies at Smat and Parisa, to sharing authentic Spanish tapas at BiBo, and tasting the refined Japanese flavours at Nobu, the vast restaurant selection in Doha is bound to cultivate even the most discerning of palates.
Here, Bazaar Qatar shares 36 of the best restaurants in Doha.
The Best Restaurants In Doha
Southeast Asia
Saffron
Located in the luxurious Banyan Tree hotel. Saffron offers an array of elevated Thai favourites from tom yum soup, to fried rice and braised chicken green curry. The food is presented with an artistic flair that will definitely give you a photo op. The venue has stunning views of the twinkling city skyline and a grand interior with high ceilings, complete with majestic gold detailing on the walls; definitely not your average Thai restaurant.
Location: Banyan Tree, Al Khaleej Street
For reservations, please call +974 4410 3310 or visit banyantree.com
Spice Market
Another brainchild of internationally acclaimed chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Spice Market offers a selection of Southeast Asian-inspired dishes. The theme extends into the interior design of the restaurant, with the sprawling space being sectioned off by dark wood decorative panels and whicker plates donning the walls. Stylish hanging red lanterns also create a cozy ambiance.
Location: W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay
For reservations, please call +974 4453 5135 or visit spicemarketdoha.com
Chinese
Hakkasan
Known for its elevated, modern take on Chinese cuisine, Hakkasan is quickly becoming an acclaimed name among gastronomy taste-makers from London to Miami – and their Doha outpost indeed lives up to the brand’s name. The large space is subdivided by exposed dark wood panels and latticed screens, which give the interior a subtle, yet noticeable influence from the Far East. All of their signature recipes, including the crispy duck salad and grilled seabass with honey are available, in addition to a special set of dishes created exclusively for the Doha location.
Location: Al Gassar Resort, St. Regis
For reservations, please call +974 4446 0170 or visit hakkasan.com
Liang
Craving Chinese food? Liang is the place to go. The restaurant offers guests a multi-sensory experience from the flavourful food, to the colourful décor and the lively entertainment. You might even be treated to a traditional tea performance and a La Mian show (a noodle stretching dance).
Location: The Mandarin Oriental
For reservations, please call +974 4008 8888 or visit mandarinoriental.com
Shanghai Me Doha
Located within the very heart of Doha’s North Beach Corniche, this chic restaurant exudes nothing less than art-deco elegance as well as the atmosphere of the Orient. Transport yourself straight into the golden era of the 1930s – a place filled with glamour, personality and culture.
Location: W Beach, Street 801, Building 138, Zone 61, West Bay, Doha, Qatar.
For reservations, please call +974 4453 6250 or visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
Miss Wong
Miss Wong offers a unique private dining experience in a lavish setting, showcasing the rich diversity of Chinese imperial cuisine. The main menu includes classic dishes such as dim sum and stir fry, along with options for children. A highlight is “The Peking Duck,” presented as part of the restaurant’s Imperial Journey.
Location: Hilton Salwa Beach Resort, Doha, Qatar.
For reservations, please call +974 4423 6666 or visit hilton.com
Japanese
Morimoto
Sophisticated, elegant and refined Morimoto is a masterpiece in both Japanese cuisine and décor. Sit at the sushi bar and watch the magic happen, or opt for a table in the central dining area, which is flanked by towering rose-gold columns. If you are not partial to sushi, you can indulge in an array of other offerings from lobster risotto to miso black cod.
Location: The Mondrian, West Bay Lagoon
For reservations, please call +974 4045 5555 or visit sbe.com
Nozomi
Refined and elegant describes this modern Japanese spot, where a musical offering creates a delightful ambiance. This is the restaurant’s second outpost after its initial success in London. Enjoy a meal of fine Japanese food, while sitting in the gardens of the Marsa Malaz Kempinski and looking out onto the majestic Arabian Gulf.
Location: Marsa Malaz Kempinski Hotel, The Pearl
For reservations, please call +974 4035 5089 or visit nozomi-doha.com
Nobu
Nobu Doha promises to take you on a whimsical adventure from the moment you come up the floating driveway, cross the bridge over a reflecting pool moat and into the three-story establishment – an architectural masterpiece designed by famed American architect, David Rockwell. From their famed black cod yuzu miso to their wagyu beef tacos, you will find that the food is as divine as the view you will have of the Arabian Gulf.
Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Corniche
For reservations, please call +974 4494 8500 or visit noburestaurants.com
Latin American
Toro Toro
Originally established in Dubai by celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval, Toro Toro Doha serves inventive yet authentic Latin American dishes. The ambiance is eclectic and boasts stunning views of the sea. From the short rib tacos to the grilled octopus, each dish promises to be bursting with flavour.
Location: Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl
For reservations, please call +974 4035 5101 or visit torotorodoha.com
La Mar Doha by Gastón Acurio
Hailing from Lima, La Mar offers a menu full of rich Peruvian flavours that have been reinvented and infused with a Japanese twist. Located right on the beach with stunning views of the city, this is the ideal spot for a special occasion. From Chef Gastón Acurio’s signature tiradito (Japanese-inspired ceviche) to a wide selection of charcoal-grilled meats, you are guaranteed to be introduced to some new tastes that will keep you coming back.
Location: InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
For reservations please call +974 4484 4919 or visit doha.intercontinental.com
La Bodega Negra
Think luxurious Mexican villa, but owned by a patron of the arts, and that’s what you have when you walk into La Bodega Negra. The space includes a lounge bar, main dining area and a terrace adorned with lush plants. The ambiance brings some Latino flair with live music and even dancing. Enjoy the joyful atmosphere while sampling their traditional Mexican menu complete with tacos, seafood, and grilled meats; don’t forget to order the churros for desert.
Location: St. Regis, Al Gassar Resort
For reservations, please call +974 4424 4871 or visit labodegadoha.com
COYA
An authentic setting decorated with hand-carved furniture. Peruvian cuisine is prepared here using Japanese, Chinese and even Spanish cooking methods. Their large menu ranges from a choice of tacos and ceviche to cazuelas. The vibrant venue is almost as colourful as the food. You are guaranteed to enjoy yourself while trying a host of delicious exotic flavours.
Location: W Doha Hotel & Residences
For reservations, please call +974 4453 5416 or visit coyarestaurant.com
European
Market By Jean-Georges
Less is more at this eatery inspired by chef Jean-Georges’ concept of the ‘hotel at home.’ This restaurant seeks to blend upscale dining with a toned-down, relaxed atmosphere – making it the perfect place to go on a Friday night out with the family. Each dish is a luxe twist on comfort food staples. From black truffle pizza to cheeseburgers and veal Milanese, there is something for everyone.
Location: W Doha Hotel & Residences
For reservations, please call +974 445 35135 or visit marketdoha.com
IZU
IZU is perfect for any time of day, as it features a more casual space on the ground-floor with both indoor and outdoor seating options, as well as an elevated dining room on the second floor. You will think you have landed in St-Tropez with their selection of French delicacies, such as croque monsieur for breakfast, quiche for lunch, and fresh seafood, in the form of calamari “à la Provençale” (prepared with garlic and olive oil) for dinner.
Location: The Mandarin Oriental
For reservations, please call +974 4008 8888 or visit mandarinoriental.com
BiBo
Indulge in an array of Spanish tapas, such as patatas bravas and creamy ink croquettes, at BiBo. Planned around a central hexagon-shaped bar with iron grid lattice detailing and hanging light fixtures, you will get the sense that you are dining in a typical European brasserie, but done the Doha way – with a modern edge. All dishes are perfect for sharing, so you are sure to get a taste of many different authentic Andalusian flavours.
Location: St. Regis; Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl
For reservations, please call +974 4424 4870 or visit grupodanigarcia.com
Lobito De Mar
Lobito De Mar is a restaurant that brings the freshness of the sea to an urban setting. Serving as both a casual beach restaurant and a seafood tapas bar, Lobito De Mar draws inspiration from popular and accessible fish, seafood, and paella dishes curated by the famous Dani Garcia.
Location: Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl
For reservations, please call +974 4424 4870 or visit grupodanigarcia.com
LPM Restaurant & Bar
Escape into the enchanting French Riviera with aromatic Mediterranean flavours surrounded by an island scenery where beautiful bougainvillea flowers bloom within the gleaming sunlight. Explore a diverse menu curated with fresh, authentic and natural ingredients. From succulent prawns to delectable escargots, each bite at the LPM Restaurant & Bar is a culinary delight.
Location: Al Maha Island, Lusail
For reservations, please call +974 4420 9888 or visit lpmrestaurants.com
La Méditerranée Robuchon
This flagship dining destination by legendary Chef Joël Robuchon celebrates his culinary genius with French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Patrons can enjoy exquisite cuisine such as crispy Langoustines and Beef Tenderloin with Malabar black pepper sauce. The restaurant also features a bar and an outdoor sea-view terrace for a complete dining experience.
Location: Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar
For reservations, please call +974 4144 3000 or visit fourseasons.com
Mixed/Fusion
Zengo
Another outpost of Chef Richard Sandoval, the menu at Zengo is inspired by both Asia and the Far East. A diverse selection that ranges from sushi and sashimi to curry. Being that it is located on the 61st floor, guests are also treated to sky-high views of Doha.
Location: Kempinski Residences & Suites
For reservations, please call +974 4405 3560 or visit zengodoha.com
BOHO Social
Not sure what cuisine you are in the mood for? Fret not. BOHO Social has got you covered. A hip bohemian restaurant perched above Katara Beach Club, BOHO Social offers dishes from the Americas, Asia, and Southern Europe. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or even afternoon tea. From eggs benedict to waffles, and burgers to pasta, complete with a chocolate fondant to top it all off, this is the ultimate comfort food destination.
Location: Level 2, above Katara Club, off Shakespeare Street, Katara Cultural Village
For reservations, please call +974 77 65 5285 or visit bohosocialqatar.com
Steakhouses
STK
Perched on the 23rd floor of The Ritz-Carlton, the Doha installment of the internationally acclaimed steakhouse chain does not disappoint. The swanky dining room creates a posh lounge vibe. Start with the wagyu beef sliders with a side of truffled special sauce before making a selection from the raw bar, and then of course tuck into a prime New York strip steak cooked to your precise preference.
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, West Bay Lagoon
For reservations, please call +974 4484 8588 or visit stk-doha.com
Levant
Bayt El Talleh
Perched on the Katara South Hills, this restaurant serves some of the best Levantine comfort food in the city. They offer a set menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner making it the perfect place to enjoy a shared meal with friends or family. The laid-back atmosphere is warm and welcoming and well suited to larger groups.
Location: Katara Hills, Katara Cultural Village
For reservations, please contact +974 4408 1777 or visit akh.com
Sofra
Enjoy some of the finest Levant cuisine in Doha at Sofra. Feast on muhammara and chicken kofta. Meat platters are also available to order for those who are in the mood to share. If you are still hungry for dessert, indulge in the baklava cheesecake or baked yogurt.
Location: Alwadi Hotel, Corner of Wadi Msheireb and Jassim bin Mohammed Street
For reservations, please contact +974 4009 9999 or visit alwadihoteldoha.com
MENA
Shirvan Métisse
Headed up by chef, Akrame Benallal, the menu at Shirvan Métisse is inspired by cuisines from various regions along the North African Silk Road – talk about authentic! The menu offers some unique dishes like black hummus and lobster pastilla or seafood pie – a North African specialty. For dessert, try the chocolate naan, or the frozen baklava. The restaurant looks out onto the marina, a lovely touch to an already gorgeous setting.
Location: Porto Arabia Drive, The Pearl
For reservations, please contact +974 4409 5303 or visit hdc-global.com
Smat
Smat, which translates literally to dining table in Arabic, is bound to become one of your local favourites, if it has not already made your list. Choose from a robust selection of homegrown Qatari and GCC dishes while taking in the picturesque view of the Doha Corniche (the city’s breathtaking waterfront promenade).
Location: Corniche Doha, Near Rass Abu Aboud Signal
For reservations, please call or visit orientpearlqatar.com
Parisa Souq Waqif
Serving some of the best Persian food in town is Parisa. The dining area is almost completely covered by intricate mosaics, with decadent chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Ask for a table in one of the alcoves as they are decorated with painted murals depicting ancient Persian legends. This restaurant is a feast for the eyes as much as a feast for the palate.
Location: Souq Waqif, Ras Abu Abboud Street
For reservations, please call +974 5591 7702 or visit linktr.ee/ParisaSouq
Indian
Jamavar
Presenting one of the best Indian fine dining experiences in the city is Jamavar. Offering kosher, halal and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone at this authentic, sophisticated spot. In addition to the à la carte menu, guests can choose from a selection of 4 set tasting menus, which come complete with an appetizer, a main course and a dessert.
Location: Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel
For reservations, please call +974 4485 3000 or visit morecravings.com
Jwala
Head to Jwala for an elevated and innovative twist on Indian street food. The menu will take you on a culinary journey of fresh spices and traditional flavours. Guests can enjoy the vibrant, laid back atmosphere while admiring the colourful interior, complete with street art donning the walls. The restaurant has taken extra care to ensure that diners are treated to a truly authentic Indian experience.
Location: Andalucia Way, Medina Centrale, The Pearl
For reservations, please call +974 4437 8437 or visit jwalarestaurant.com
Italian
La Spiga
Brought to Doha by the Milanese restaurant, Paper Moon, La Spiga has elevated Italian comfort food. With a chic décor befitting the quality of the food, this place is bound to become a staple on your list of eateries in Doha. Choose from a selection of tried and true Italian recipes such as fettuccine bolognese and burrata pizza.
Location: W Doha Hotel & Residences
For reservations, please call +974 4453 5135 or visit papermoonrestaurants.com
Scalini
Scalini has established itself on the world stage having outposts in Riyadh, Dubai and London. The restaurant proudly sources all their ingredients from Italian suppliers and each dish offered is an authentic Italian recipe. Opt for either al fresco dinning on the terrace, or sit indoor where contemporary Italian pop art dons exposed red brick walls. The menu is written entirely in Italian but don’t worry – an English translation has been provided for those of us who are not lucky enough to speak the romance language.
Location: Tower 2, Al Gassar Resort
For reservations, please call +974 4424 4850 or visit scaliniqa.com
Roberto’s Doha
A favoured Italian establishment, Roberto’s Doha delivers a cosmopolitan experience with a range of high-quality Italian dishes. Under the guidance of Chef Francesco Guarracino, the gem ensures a distinctive and exceptional culinary experience that is not one to miss!
Location: The St. Regis, Island, Qatar
For reservations please call +974 4020 4460
Alba By Enrico Crippa
Experience modern upscale Italian gastronomy that authentically captures the essence of Italy. This Italian restaurant guarantees a culinary journey to the region celebrated for its rare white truffles, offering a sensory-rich experience for a night out with loved ones.
Location: Raffles Doha, Qatar
For reservations, please call +974 4030 7100
Greek
Mykonos
Set in a light, airy space looking out onto the sea, Mykonos is the ideal place to go for a relaxed night out. Everything about the place, down to the white and blue colour palette is inspired by the blissful Mediterranean paradise. In Greece, food traditionally brings people together so the menu has been designed for sharing. From fresh salads to stuffed vine leaves and seafood, you will most likely keep coming back to satisfy your craving for Greek food.
Location: InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
For reservations, please call +974 4484 4919 or visit doha.intercontinental.com
Hellas
You will think you have left the desert and stepped into Santorini when entering Hellas. With a décor that befits its authentic Greek dishes (prepared with ingredients from Greece), you will definitely be taking an Instagram photo (or two) while dining here. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, so whether you are in the mood for a yogurt parfait on a Saturday morning or a spanakopita for lunch on a Tuesday afternoon – they have you covered!
Location: Katara South Plaza Gallery
For reservations, please call +974 4408 0810 or visit instagram.com/hellasqatar
Gaia Doha
Immerse yourself in the refined taverna and its exclusive bar that envelopes the essence of Greece. Gaia Doha perfectly combines traditional flavours and fresh ingredients with the simplicity of home cooking.
Location: W Beach, Street 801, Building 138, Zone 61, West Bay, Doha, Qatar
For reservations, please call +974 4453 6200, email [email protected] or visit gaia-restaurants.com.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@morimotodoha and @bohosocialqatar
This article was originally published in November, 2023. It was updated and republished by Jida Elfghi on 28, May, 2024.