If you’re traveling to Doha (which I assume is in the plans if you’re here!) a definitive must-do in the city is trying the traditional Qatari food. It’s so unique and delicious that you’ll probably want to try every dish… And fall in love with each of them!
From the country’s national dish, Majboos, to the sweet Umm Ali, crispy Samboosa and the very interesting Baleelat dish, Doha food is a testament to the flavors and culture of the Middle East.
We’ve established that you should try it all, but where’s the best place to sample them? How do you know you’re enjoying the best shawarma in Doha?
In this article, I’ve compiled the best restaurants in Doha to help you navigate Qatari cuisine – and find the best international eateries should you crave some Thai or Italian – like a pro. Read on, and bookmark your favorites in your map!
SMAT Restaurant
SMAT Restaurant is a high-end, iconic eatery in Doha that specializes in Arabic cuisine. Servings are generous and beautifully presented, attention to detail being one of the restaurant’s main characteristics.
SMAT Restaurant is very popular for its traditional breakfast dishes, but it also serves delicious and very authentic starters, main dishes, and desserts (all of them very Instagrammable as well!)
Located on the Corniche, you’ll get to enjoy your meal with beautiful views over the bay, which is a fantastic plus.
Address: Corniche Road.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 12 AM.
Three Sixty
Situated on the 47th floor of the Aspire Tower (also known as The Torch), Three Sixty is a revolving restaurant named after the 360-degree views that it offers – that alone is worth the visit!
But if there’s something better than the restaurant’s scenery, is its food. Offering a fine dinning experience, its upscale setting is matched by the incredible variety of appetizers, main, and desserts, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
You can choose your meal from the chef’s signature dishes and the À la Carte menu, or enjoy one of their delightful theme nights that feature a set menu and live music.
Address: Aspire Tower, Floor 47.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 3 PM to 11 PM. Friday and Saturday from 12.30 PM to 11 PM.
Morimoto
Morimoto is an upscale Japanese restaurant that boasts a luxurious setting, spectacular ambiance, and incredible artistry in every dish and drink.
It features a sushi bar with an extensive menu, and also serves other popular Japanese meals, including tempura, ramen, steaks, and seafood appetizers. Vegan and vegetarian options can be found on the menu as well.
They also offer After Work specials and have a large selection of very interesting signature cocktails, as well as plenty of Japanese drinks and international spirits.
Address: 101 Lusail Expy, West Bay Lagoon.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 PM to 11 PM.
Azraq at Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Azraq is a spectacular restaurant located in Banana Island Resort, one of Anantara’s top-notch accommodations. Specializing in Middle Eastern and International cuisine, they offer a hearty and varied breakfast buffet to satisfy you until dinner.
Being one of the top restaurants in Doha, it boasts live cooking stations with show kitchens and buffet themes, bringing the best flavors of the region to your table.
Address: Banana Island Resort.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6.30 AM to 10.30 AM.
Boho Social
Boho Social is one of the best restaurants in Qatar for foodies looking for a social and fun vibe. The decor is vibrant, and the dishes are served with equal artistry and attention to detail (therefore very photogenic!!)
Gourmet breakfasts, substantial main dishes with a variety of sides, a kids’ menu, and a large selection of desserts can all be enjoyed at Boho Social. While they mainly specialize in international cuisine, they have introduced a fusion of culinary styles to their dishes, and also offer vegetarian and healthy meals.
It’s also one of the most amazing cafes in Doha, one where you can get anything from plain black coffee to signature coffee drinks and lattes.
Address: Shakespeare Street, Level 2.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday from 9 AM to 11.30 PM, Thursday and Friday open until 12 AM.
Sofra Doha
Cila Restaurant is a fine dining eatery that specializes in Levant cuisine. Paying homage to Qatari traditions, the restaurant resembles the interior of dhow boats, and it also serves regional dishes, so you’ll get to try all the classics.
The setting is elegant and sober, and meals are not only beautifully presented but delicious, especially when paired with their staple hand-crafted cocktails. Vegetarian and vegan options are available as well.
Address: Alwadi Hotel Doha.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 11 PM.
Paper Moon
Paper Moon is a spectacular Italian restaurant in Doha, where not only will you find gourmet pizza and mouth-watering pasta dishes, but seafood, antipasti, and salads.
Would it be a true Italian restaurant, though, without desserts? Traditional gelato, tiramisu, and panna cotta are only a few of the delicacies you’ll get to enjoy after a substantial meal!
This Qatar restaurant takes pride in preparing its meals with the freshest seasonal ingredients, therefore changing menus throughout the year to ensure the highest quality. They have a brunch menu on Saturday, and cater to private dining events, so it’s a great place for celebrations!
Address: Jaidah Square, Al Matar Street.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 12 AM.
Evergreen Organics
If you’re wondering where to have a plant-based, healthy breakfast in Doha, the answer is Evergreen Organics.
This gorgeous cafe has a delicious all-day menu and the most nourishing breakfast items, from vegan yogurt and granola to avo toasts, acai bowls, and pancakes, among several other sweet and savory alternatives.
It’s the first 100% vegan restaurant in Doha (and Qatar!), and you can get your caffeine dose with your favorite choice of milk, fresh juices and smoothies, or grab a bite for lunch. Don’t forget to get one of their desserts as well!
Address: The Gate Mall, Ground Floor
Pearl-Qatar Branch: Palazzio 1, Qanat Quartier
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday from 7 AM to 11 PM, Friday from 7 AM to 11.30 AM and from 12.30 PM to 11 PM.
Shay Al Shoomos
If you’re interested in indulging in traditional Qatari cuisine, Shay Al Shoomos is the place to go.
It’s the best restaurant in Doha to experience the authentic local hospitality and flavors, and it’s where you’ll get to sample the most delicious balaleet and machboos in the city. It’s also said to serve the yummiest brunch in Doha!
The restaurant is owned by a local lady who’s always around to ensure the best quality of your meal, and it’s located in the bustling Souq Waqif, so it’s the perfect spot for breakfast before or after your visit to the spice market!
Address: Souq Waqif.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 7.30 AM to 1 PM, and from 6.30 PM to 10 PM. Friday from 7.30 AM to 130 AM.
Isaan Thai Restaurant
An amazing Thai restaurant in Doha is Isaan. Located inside the Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel, it features a very elegant decor with an outdoor seating area, and displays the culture of Thailand through mouthwatering traditional dishes.
From world-renowned classics that include Pad Phai and Thai Curry to more local Asian and Thai delicacies, you’ll definitely be in for a treat if you choose to dine here.
They have and à la carte and set menus, a large selection of cocktails, and Mango Sticky Rice for dessert (plus other options, but why bother if there’s mango sticky rice?!)
Address: Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6.30 PM to 11.30 PM. On Friday it also opens from 1 PM to 4 PM for lunch.
Parisa Souq Wakifa
Are you in the mood for Persian cuisine? Good, because you need to dine at Parisa Souq Waqifa at least once.
The restaurant’s interior will blow your mind with its lavish decor, designed to grant you an authentic Persian dining experience. Hand-painted Persian artwork depicts mosaics, myths and legends, and the opulent chandeliers provide a very atmospheric ambiance.
If you want to enjoy a different dinner in Doha, here you’ll get to choose from the traditional Persian soups, salads, and mains, as well as some grilled dishes, and delectable desserts.
While most items on the menu include some kind of meat, it’s also very vegetarian-friendly, and has a great variety of desserts that will delight sweet-lovers. (Hint: try the Faloudeh Shirazi or the Bastani Akbar Mashti if it’s a hot day!)
Address: Al Souq Street.
Opening Hours: Daily from 1 PM to 4 PM and from 6 PM to 11 PM.
Turkey Central
Turkey Central is a great Turkish restaurant in Doha, located in the Al-Nasar area. It has a homely vibe, and it serves plentiful dishes and mezzes, full of flavor and scents. Besides specializing in Turkish cuisine, they also serve Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food and have vegetarian options available.
The setting is simple and there’s nothing pompous about the dishes: all the attention is given to the taste, and they’re tasty indeed! While you’re there, make sure to try the flat bread and the grilled meats, a few of the restaurant’s staples!
Address: Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 1 AM.
Jwala
Jwala is one of the best Indian restaurants in Doha (if not the best!) It boasts a vibrant ambiance and very authentic Indian decor that will make you forget you’re actually in Qatar and not in Delhi!
As for the food, you can expect nothing but generous servings, exploding flavors, and very creative plate decorations – which will look amazing on your IG feed!
Here you’ll find the most delicious Indian street food in Doha, with a combination of classic and contemporary flavors and techniques that will have you coming back for more (or planning a trip to India?)
They have traditional soups and starters, and some of the best items on the menu include the naan pizza and the currys. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
Address: Andalucia Way, Building B12.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 1 AM.
Mykonos
As its name suggests, Mykonos is a Greek restaurant. The perfect place to enjoy a light lunch or a romantic dinner in Doha, it features a lovely setting for al fresco dining, and delightful Mediterranean flavors.
Mykonos is part of the InterContinental Hotel, and its simple setting with white and blue colors is reminiscent of the island it takes inspiration from.
Seafood, roasts, salads and signature specials are among the most popular dishes, and there’s also a wide variety of starters plus some vegetarian alternatives.
Address: InterContinental Doha.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 11.30 PM.
Horatii Tiramisu Lounge
Horatii Tiramisu Lounge is a dessert paradise, featuring a menu full of sweets and sugary goodies. The tiramisu is, of course, the king at Horatii, and you can’t leave without trying it – even if you also get all the other desserts!
Red velvet cupcakes, puddings, cakes, and cookies, along with a cup of coffee to counteract all the sweetness, are some of the most popular items. But Horatii also caters for those on the savory team, serving sandwiches, main courses, and one of the best pizzas in Doha for lunch and dinner.
There are three locations fo Horatii Lounge: at Lusail City Boulevard, at West Walk Al Waab and at The Hotel Park West Bay Sheraton.
Address: Lusail Boulevard.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday from 6 AM to 12 AM. Friday from 6 AM to 11.30 AM and from 2 PM to 12 AM.
