The Radisson Blu Hotel Doha has always been a favourite hang-out place for residents who have been in Qatar long before the big malls and the frenzy of preparations for the FIFA World Cup™. 

Marhaba’s recent visit was prompted by the reopening of their different outlets after months of hiatus because of COVID-19.

All set up to host the Japanese team for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the hotel is now actively ‘in the game’ – with menus and staff ready – and waiting for the big day.

Nineteen of the hotel’s outlets will have special offerings for the World Cup crowd and the public, from 19 November until 18 December.

Our eyes, however, were set on two outlets for this visit- Bubbles on Two and Sakura, which means maybe a bubbly glass (or two) and a hearty teppanyaki dinner.

Bubbles on Two

Located on the East Wing, Bubbles on Two have retained its cosy interiors matched by the warm welcome of the staff. The piano on the upper floor sits invitingly on the corner, and the bar is filled with all possible mixes.

The place remains an ideal space to catch up with friends – that before-dinner place to warm you up and prep you for an evening meal. Or the after-dinner place for a nightcap, to send you off with happy thoughts before you head home.

Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar

Sakura, meanwhile, is located in the hotel’s West Wing.

A number of people were already seated around the teppanyaki bar, watching the fascinating show by the chefs when we arrive. Knives and fires came in between meats and shrimp, and vegetables and rice; the amount of waiting time for the food hardly matters as we follow the movement of the chef.

Did you know that training to become a teppanyaki chef sometimes takes almost 10 years? Teppan actually refers to the iron griddle used to cook meat; while yaki means grilled, broiled or pan-fried. The term ‘teppanyaki’ actually refers to the style of Japanese cooking that was said to have started after World War II.

These days, teppanyaki is popular as it nourishes and entertains at the same time.

There are not a lot of authentic teppanyaki restaurants in Doha, and Sakura is one of the more popular among the residents, mainly because of the food and the showmanship of the chefs.

Aside from the restaurant’s teppanyaki offering, you can also order from their à la carte menu. We recommend a proper salad, soup, and maybe servings of sushi and sashimi to get you in the Japanese spirit. And then, leave the food decisions to the chef!

 

That Sakura dinner left us happy and excited for the World Cup. The food and the warm welcome from the Radisson team had us thinking of happier days to come, not just during the anticipated matches but after, when everything is back to a normal pace. Until then, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha is definitely back in the game.

Sakura is open daily from 5 pm to 11 pm, at the West Wing of Radisson Blu Hotel Doha. Call 4428 1555 or send an email to [email protected] to book your table. Visit radissonhotels.com for updates and more information. 

More food recommendations from Marhaba foodies here.


Author: Lalaine Turqueza

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