Foodies are in for a real treat in Qatar, which is home to restaurants by some of the world’s most famous chefs. While Doha may be compact, it has a huge selection of fine dining experiences to enjoy! Here are just a few recommendations to try.
IDAM by Alain Ducasse
The first thing that will strike you upon walking in to the restaurant is the unique and luxurious décor, created by famed interior designer Philippe Starck. IDAM at the Museum of Islamic Art is Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in the Middle East and boasts spectacular views of Doha corniche while taking patrons on a refined culinary journey. The menu contains a selection of contemporary French Mediterranean cuisine with an Arabic twist, and most ingredients have been sourced locally.
Opening hours
Saturday – Thursday Lunch: 12:30 pm – 3 pm; Dinner: 7 pm – 10 pm
Friday closed
4422 4488, mia.org.qa
Opal by Gordon Ramsay
Recognised as one of the best chefs in the world, multi-Michelin starred Gordon Ramsay brings a unique dining experience to Qatar at The St. Regis Doha. The award-winning restaurant is relaxed yet social, with simple, fresh and tasty classics. The highlight of this bistro-style space is the gourmet pizza station.
Opening hours
Sunday – Thursday Lunch: noon – 4 pm; Dinner: 6 pm – 11 pm Friday Brunch: 12:30 pm – 4 pm; Dinner: 6:30 pm – 11 pm
Saturday Dinner: 6:30 pm – 11 pm
4446 0000, opalbygordonramsaydoha.com/
CUT by Wolfgang Puck
Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck has brought his famous American style steak restaurant CUT to Qatar at the Mondrian Doha hotel. His motto is ‘Live, Love, Eat’ and that is certainly what you will do here! Enjoy the unique Alice in Wonderland-inspired décor and indulge in some exemplary dishes. The menu offers the finest selection of produce – much of which is sourced locally – cooked simply and presented beautifully.
Opening hours
Daily Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:30 am; Lunch: noon – 3:30 pm (lunch); Dinner: 7 pm – 11:30 pm
Sunday – Thursday business lunch: noon – 3:30 pm
Friday Brunch: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
4045 5999, morganshotelgroup.com
Spice Market by Jean-Georges
This restaurant at the W Doha Hotel & Residences has won a multitude of awards over the years for its excellence. The street cuisines and spices of Southeast Asia inspired Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten to open his own restaurant offering guests cozy family-style dining with authentic dishes. The upscale interior design has been specially chosen to provide dramatic dining areas, with ornate handcrafted screens and subtle lighting.
Opening hours
Saturday – Thursday Lunch noon – 4 pm; Dinner: 5 pm – 11:30 pm
Friday Brunch: noon – 4 pm; Dinner: 7 pm – 11:30 pm
4453 5135, spicemarketdoha.com
Maya by Richard Sandoval
Located on the ground floor of the Kempinski Residences & Suites, Maya is a branch of the flagship restaurant of Mexican celebrity chef Richard Sandoval. This is a modern Mexican kitchen serving up sharing plates from a vibrant menu, offering authentic dishes with a contemporary twist.
Opening hours
All day dining: Sunday – Wednesday noon – midnight
Thursday noon – 1 am
Brunch: Friday 12:30 pm – 4 pm
Dinner: Friday 7 pm – 1 am; Saturday 6 pm – midnight
4405 3325, kempinski.com