Food In Doha

Food History of Doha, Qatar

The cuisine of Doha draws its influence from an array of cultures due to the influx of expatriate communities within Qatar. Historically, the availability of local ingredients such as seafood, dates, and an assortment of spices has also played a significant role in shaping the culinary landscape. Due to the Islamic roots and the Bedouin traditions, dishes often feature grains, dairy, and a variety of meats – however, cow meat is commonly excluded due to religious observance.

Qatari cuisine typically revolves around aromatic and flavorful dishes, with an emphasis on showcasing ingredients rather than overpowering them with spices. Rice is a staple in many meals, commonly served with meats like chicken, lamb, and camel, or fish. Influences from neighboring countries such as Iran, India, and Levant regions have also been integrated into local dishes, resulting in a rich and diverse food scene that visitors to Doha can experience today.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Doha, Qatar

1. Mathrooba – A creamy dish made with beaten wheat and mixed with chicken, making it a hearty and savory non-veg option.
2. Machboos – A fragrant rice dish often cooked with spices, dried limes, and herbs. It commonly includes fish or chicken, catering to non-vegetarian preferences.
3. Madhruba – Another traditional dish that includes mashed rice, dairy, and chicken, creating a porridge-like consistency. This dish is non-veg.
4. Thareed – A pot stew of vegetables and bread, traditionally layered and sometimes including chicken or lamb, making it non-veg.
5. Falafel – A popular Middle Eastern food that has made its home in Doha, these deep-fried chickpea balls are a tasty veg-friendly option.
6. Tabbouleh – This Levantine salad made of parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice, is a refreshing veg choice.
7. Hummus – A delicious and creamy spread made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon, hummus is a classic veg dip.
8. Waraq Enab – Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, which can be veg or non-veg depending on the preparation.
9. Balaleet – A sweet and savory dish with vermicelli noodles sweetened with sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom, often topped with an omelette, thus non-veg.
10. Umm Ali – A warm dessert made with pastry, milk, and nuts, resembling a bread pudding, it’s a veg delight for those with a sweet tooth.

Top Famous Restaurants in Doha, Qatar

• Al Sufra
  Address: Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar
  Famous Food: Lamb Shank Machboos (Non-Veg)
• Damasca One
  Address: Souq Waqif
  Famous Food: Shawarma Platter (Non-Veg)
• Yasmine Palace
  Address: The Pearl-Qatar, Doha
  Famous Food: Grilled Hammour (Non-Veg)
• Isaan Thai Restaurant
  Address: Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas
  Famous Food: Green Papaya Salad (Som Tam) (Veg)
• Saasna
  Address: The Royal Plaza, Ali Bin Abdallah St
  Famous Food: Mutton Biryani (Non-Veg)
• Parisa
  Address: Souq Waqif
  Famous Food: Fesenjan (chicken in pomegranate walnut sauce) (Non-Veg)
• Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge
  Address: Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli
  Famous Food: Mixed Mezze Platter (Veg & Non-Veg options)
• La Spiga by Paper Moon
  Address: W Doha Hotel & Residences
  Famous Food: Pasta Alla Norma (Veg)
• Market by Jean-Georges
  Address: W Doha Hotel & Residences
  Famous Food: Crispy Sushi (Veg & Non-Veg options)
• Saffron Lounge
  Address: Katara Cultural Village
  Famous Food: Stuffed Vine Leaves (Waraq Enab) (Veg & Non-Veg options)