Qatar is home to a huge melting pot of expats from different parts of the world and this is reflected in the wide range of international cuisine offered across the country. We spoke to some of our readers to get the scoop on where to find the most authentic dishes from different regions.
1. Italian Cuisine – LO SPAGHETTO
Amazing, authentic, freshly cooked Italian pizza with a wide variety of other dishes on the menu too. The tasty steak and pasta options are highly popular with the locals. The restaurant is run by experienced Italian staff, making it a truly authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant ambience is of a cosy and quaint European setting.Â
2. Mediterranean Cuisine – MYKONOS
Proudly Doha’s most popular spot for authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, Mykonos is perfectly situated by the beach, giving you a real Greek coast feel. Some of the all-time favourites include Greek salad, cheese saganaki, moussaka, stuffed vine leaves and fresh seafood.
3. Mexican Cuisine – VIVA MEXICO BY MR TACO
Headed by a traditional Mexican family and served with the finest ingredients straight from the heart of Mexico, Viva Mexico is as authentic as it gets. This restaurant strives to introduce Mexico’s dynamic and distinctive cuisine to foreign countries and does so splendidly. If you’re in the mood for tacos, nachos, quesadillas, empanadas, burritos, and a variety of appetisers, desserts and beverages, this is the place to be. It’s home-made, original recipes makes it an exceptional experience for all.Â
4. Chinese Cuisine – LIANG AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL
Currently take- away only
To create the most authentic Chinese restaurant in Doha, Mandarin Oriental Doha has partnered with Hong Kong Maxim’s Caterer Ltd. Executive Chef Lam masterfully created each recipe according to the group’s standards of Chinese cuisine excellence. Here you will find the utmost authentic tasting Chinese food rich in flavour and variety.
Read more: Top 10 most ‘Instagrammable’ cafes in DohaÂ
5. Indian Cuisine – AMARA
Amara introduces you to an authentically Indian experience complete with exuberant culinary offerings. The overall vibe still stays true to its Punjabi origins. Some iconic customer favourites include charcoal grilled fish, richly flavoured Dhal, Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Biryiani. Amara has definitely made its mark as a must-try restaurant when one craves for Indian cuisine.
6. English Cuisine – THE CHIPPY
For your traditional English cod and chips, The Chippy is the way to go. The taste of the homemade chips will be sure to transport you back to the pebbled piers of the UK. Don’t worry, you can also get your mushy peas, battered sausage and curry sauce right here in the heart of Doha. The restaurant is quite small so take-away orders are popular. And just for the added authenticity, your food is packaged and wrapped in paper.
7. Caribbean Cuisine – RAY’S JERK SHACK
A Caribbean run restaurant and the only Caribbean jerk cuisine in Qatar. Ray’s Jerk Shack proudly seasons its food for 24 hours before then smoking it to perfection in a traditional Jerk Drum. Favourites include jerk chicken, jerk salmon, rice and peas, oxtail, fried plantain and beef patties. You can visit the brand new store in Bin Omran or order to takeaway.Â
8. Yemeni Cuisine – HADHRAMOUT
Dubbed as “the pride of Yemeni cuisine in Qatar”, Hadhramout truly fits the bill. Yemeni-owned and Yemeni-run, it’s hard for this restaurant to serve anything but authentic taste from the streets of Sanaa. If you’re looking for mandi, kabsa, fahsa or even some real Adeni tea, this is your place to be. Â
9. American Cuisine – CRABTONITE
Crabtonite is the place to be for Crustacean American style seafood that is bursting with flavour and spices. Popular specials include succulent king crablegs, clams, boiled shrimp with Cajun sauce and fresh Maine lobster. Everything is served fresh and comes with that famous southern hospitality.Â
10. Turkish Cuisine – TURKEY CENTRAL
Turkish Food at it’s best – served hot, sizzling and fresh. This popular Turkish restaurant is best loved for its generous portions and tasty food. For the meat eaters, this is the place to be to get your hands on mixed grilled meats, shish tawouq, lamb chops, tasty Turkish bread and much more. With several branches around Doha, you’re sure to get a seat.
Have we missed out any cuisine from your native country that can be found here in Doha? Let us know!
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