Cultural Restaurants

As Qatar's economy has become more globalized over the past decade, so have its international culinary options become more diverse. In addition the finding some excellent local, ethnic Middle Eastern food, there are also countless options to enjoy global cuisine ranging from Indian restaurants to fine French establishments.

For those who enjoy Middle Eastern meals, you can find a wide range of traditional dishes from hummus to kebab throughout the country, with options ranging from inexpensive, take out restaurants to more formal options such as Layali, an upscale Lebanese restaurant and hookah bar. The region also has strong ties to Iranian culture, and the upscale Ras Al Nasa serves authentic Persian cuisine in a grand environment. For those seeking a truly authentic Qatari meal, you can find some excellent meals in the small neighborhoods throughout the city.

With a wide influx of foreign workers in the country, a diversity of ethnic cuisine establishments have emerged in the country. Most commonly, South Asia options include a wide array of Indian and Pakistani options ranging from 4 star restaurants to informal, inexpensive locales. Another common option are authentic Thai restaurants, which produce truly spicy dishes, including the Thai Twin establishments throughout the country - a fair warning as the dishes can be quite spicy.

There are even global takes on traditional fast food, including locations that serve a play on standard fast food. While cultural restrictions forbade most of alcohol consumption and visitors are prohibited from bringing drinks into the country, those with residency permits can find alcoholic beverages at upscale restaurants, which generally offer exotic mixed drinks rather than standard fare.