For those staying here or maybe flitting in and out (is that still a thing?), here is my hit list for where you should be eating and drinking in Doha in July 2021. July – the most challenging month in many ways – heat, humidity…the usual. But things are looking up – the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions continues and life is kind of returning to normal. At least these top picks will keep you entertained and well fed! From newly opened gems to some great happy hour deals – it’s all here:
Ninja Ramen
You don’t need to settle for Wagamama’s average ramen anymore, Ninja Ramen has opened in Najma to little fanfare but a lot of plaudits. Located inside the Al Mana Hotel on Airport Road, the chef is Japanese and the ramen is spot on. You have three choices of ramen plus a range of additions, you get two included in your order. Speaking of price, it’s very pocket friendly at between QR35 and QR39. The broth on my Tori Paitan Ramen was rich and comforting, I topped it with the charsui chicken and chili garlic chives. Seating is limited due COVID-19 restrictions and bookings are essential. A must visit for the Ramen-tics among us.
Must order: Ramen, of course! But check out their sides!
Viernes Fiesta Local Brunch at Hudson Tavern
Hudson Tavern at the Mondrian is, in my opinion, one of the more underrated spots in the city. Always welcoming and with an out of the box menu, it never disappoints. Their South American themed Friday brunch is outside of their usual comfort food and it works. starters include a salty/sour but perfectly balanced seafood ceviche and very craveable BBQ chicken tacos. The mains are all about the meat – BBQ lamb, chicken and tenderloin served tableside. Everything is well seasoned and well presented. at QR350 for alcohol and QR225 for soft drinks, this is a great option for a lazy Saturday brunch.
Must order: well, you get everything and can order more. My repeat order were the tacos, so good!
Wednesday Lobster Night at Mandarin Oriental
I’m on the record about this, but I believe this Wednesday offer at Mosaic could be one of the best dining deals in Doha in terms of price, quality and service. COVID-19 bid farewell to the buffet concept but this has been replaced by an unlimited la carte menu. Starters include a beautifully fresh raw plate of shellfish including slipper lobster from Australia, prawns and oysters. Cold starters are rounded off with an old school prawn cocktail as well as sushi and ceviche. The mains are a surf and turf showstopper – perfectly cooked tenderloin and a lobster mornay. There is plenty on this menu to make everyone happy, and quality wise, there is very little “filler” – every dish is a winner. It’s QR390 per person from 6pm every Wednesday in Mosaic, no alcohol is included but they have some lovely options by the glass.
Must order: all the things but save room for the steak and lobster
Saffron at the Banyan Tree Doha
The Banyan Tree brand is renowned for their Thai restaurants and this outpost does not let the side down. While prices are in the five star stratosphere, the quality of the dishes and the incredible view of Doha more than make up for it. the menu includes all the traditional Thai favorites and servings are generous. I suggest you head straight to the beautifully executed curries and stirfries. Foodies will love the extra flourishes like the trio of Thai dips – salty, sweet and spicy – when you arrive and the sorbets between courses. The hotel’s alcohol license is under process but they have a mixologist who is keen to whip up mocktails for you.
Must order: The massaman beef curry is silky, rich and deeply spiced.
Summer Taste of Nobu
Nobu can always be relied upon to keep the foodie crowned fed and watered during the long summer months and for that, we are grateful. Their Taste of Summer menu is great value at QR245 per person for a four course set menu. starters include their small but perfectly formed salmon tacos, a tart and fresh seafood gazpacho and rounded out with tempura style corn fritters. Also on the menu is their famous sushi and maki rolls as well as some well balanced mains like a rich and glossy quid ink risotto with prawns and a juicy brick oven roasted chick thigh. No drinks are included in their offer but they do have wines by the glass.
Must order: Just sit back and enjoy everything!
Momentos De Amigos at Grand Hyatt Doha
Santa Monica Breakfast Club at the Grand Hyatt Doha has been off my radar for a while but this offer has changed that. A perfect Thursday night spot to wind down – the offer includes unlimited cocktails for two hours plus a platter is snacks. Snacks us really underplaying it though – this is seriously good food, not just an afterthought. The chicken wings have been brined and marinated then slow cooked, making them plump and juicy and very, very moreish, just like the satay grilled vegetables and the crispy prawn tacos. The QR220 charge includes free flow cocktails for your two hour slot plus the platter. Thoughtful, fun and just what you need after a long week.
Must order: The light and bright sparkling wine cocktail is a must.
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