Eating out in Doha can be an absolute joy, with no end of top-notch restaurants to eat at, whatever your budget. From stylish dining rooms with polished service and staggering cityscape views, to upbeat, buzzy venues where the music and atmosphere are as much a part of the experience as the food itself, you’ll find it all here.
The Qatari capital’s international crowd means cuisines from all corners of the globe are represented, with sushi bars and Indian restaurants two particular favourites. And for the foodies keen to try authentic local flavours, there are plenty of welcoming Qatari restaurants serving the country’s favourite dishes in style. These are some of the best restaurants in Doha.
1. Jamavar
Anyone craving Indian food in Doha is in for a treat, as there are countless authentic restaurants to be found across the capital. Inside the Sheraton Grand Doha, Jamavar is one of the most elegant. Branches of this world-class restaurant can be found everywhere from London to Delhi, and Doha’s venue is every bit as polished. This Michelin‑starred establishment has a mouthwatering menu that includes regional Indian dishes from Hyderabadi slow-cooked lamb to Calicut sea bass curry. The lavish, gold‑accented decor and soft lighting makes a perfect setting for a romantic or special occasion meal.
2. Saasna
Housed in the sleekly modern district of Msheireb Downtown, Saasna serves up classic Qatari dishes with a contemporary twist. This is a great place to sample local cuisine in a relaxed, chic setting, as you’ll find everything from Shrimp Saloona (a saucy stew) to Machboos – a traditional spicy meat and rice dish that’s popular across the country. Diners rave about the warm and welcoming service, with staff more than happy to explain the Qatari dishes and make recommendations. It’s one of the top restaurants in Doha for foodie travellers who want to get familiar with local flavours.
3. Spice Market Doha
The multi award-winning Spice Market is hands-down one of the most popular South-East Asian restaurants in Doha. Upbeat and lively, it’s housed inside the West Bay’s W Hotel, and serves sushi, Asian-inspired sharing plates and curries, as well as spectacularly creative drinks. The dark wood decor and low-hanging red lamps make for an atmospheric place to hang out, and it's popular with the after work crowds during the week. Expect loud live music from Monday to Friday.
4. Hoppers
Hoppers brings the taste and style of Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine to Doha’s West Bay with this colourful branch of the popular restaurant chain. The eponymous hoppers (bowl‑shaped rice pancakes) arrive with large portions of spicy curries, chutneys and biryanis, which are perfect for sharing between hungry friends and family. Wash it all down with a fresh pineapple lassi for an extremely satisfying meal from one of Doha’s best affordable restaurants.
5. Isaan
Isaan consistently gets rave reviews for its excellent Thai dishes, warm service and creative foodie experiences. Housed in the Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas, the à la carte menu includes elevated, crowd-pleasing Thai classics such as spicy soups, fried noodles and coconutty curries. Special occasion? Book a seat at the chef’s table, an up-close, interactive experience where you get to watch your multi-course menu being prepared by an award-winning chef. The restaurant also offers Thai cooking classes and a Friday Chatuchak Brunch where you can get a taste of authentic Thai street food.
6. IDAM by Alain Ducasse
Perched at the top of the Museum of Islamic Art with sweeping views of the Corniche, IDAM is the epitome of fine dining in Doha. Alain Ducasse’s menu combines French cuisine with Qatari influences and ingredients to great effect. It’s one of the best restaurants in Doha with a view both inside and out – the spacious, airy dining room was designed by Phillipe Starck and features a striking black carpet covered in white Arabic calligraphy. And from the dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, diners can feast their eyes on a dazzling panorama of Doha Bay.
7. Bayt Sharq
For an authentic taste of Qatari cuisine, book a table at Bayt Sharq. This beautiful restaurant is set inside the plant-filled courtyard of a historic home, with vintage decor that pays tribute to Qatar’s maritime history. Dishes are prepared and served in traditional style, with local favourites machboos, biryani and bread pudding umm ali all on the menu. It’s open for lunch and dinner, but in-the-know diners come for the generous Qatari breakfasts served with great coffee. There’s even a small museum on site if you want to learn more about the history of the house and its owners.
8. Provok
Situated across the 33rd and 34th floors of the Fairmont Doha hotel, Provok is a stylish, light-filled restaurant and lounge with stunning views over the city. The dramatic decor is fire and ice themed, with flames licking from open grills in the evening. A range of beautifully presented Asian dishes are served here, including sushi and sashimi platters, Korean barbecue and teppanyaki grill. Head out onto the open air Sky Balcony after your meal for drinks inspired by ancient trade routes. Brunch is served on Fridays and Saturdays.
9. Asha’s
You’re never far from a great restaurant in Doha Festival City, which has two giant food courts as well as snack stalls galore and several high-end restaurants and cafes. One of the mall’s most popular eateries is Asha’s, a global Indian restaurant chain backed by the renowned singer and actress Asha Bhosle. Well-priced and with a wide-ranging menu, it serves regional Indian specialities from tandoori dishes and kebabs to street food and curries. A must-visit whenever you’re in the mall.
10. Damasca One
One of the best restaurants in Souq Waqif, Damasca One is an atmospheric Middle Eastern spot that’s a favourite with locals, expats and tourists alike. Live Arabic music, warm and welcoming staff and a menu that spans Syrian and Lebanese dishes served in generous portions, make this a top choice any time you’re in the souq.
