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What to eat in Doha

Doha’s cuisine reflects its multicultural population, offering everything from traditional Gulf fare to Indian, Thai and Italian dishes. All restaurants serve halal food, and alcohol is only available in hotel bars.

Local dishes to try

Machboos

A fragrant rice dish cooked with chicken, lamb or fish, served for lunch or dinner.

Harees

Slow‑cooked wheat and shredded meat, popular during Ramadan and festive occasions.

Balaleet

A breakfast staple of sweetened noodles topped with a thin omelette.

Samboosa

Crispy pastries filled with meat, cheese or vegetables, sold in souqs and street stalls.

Shawarma

Thinly sliced marinated meat in flatbread, found in fast‑food stalls citywide.

Luqaimat

Deep‑fried dough drizzled with date syrup, served as a dessert during Ramadan.

Karak tea

Strong tea with cardamom and condensed milk, enjoyed any time of day.

Gahwa

Lightly roasted coffee flavored with cardamom, offered as a welcome drink.

Where to eat

1
Souq Waqif
Traditional market with many stalls serving grilled meats, fresh seafood and street snacks.
2
Corniche promenade
Walk along the waterfront and find numerous cafés offering shawarma, fish and karak tea.
3
Katara Cultural Village
Cultural hub with diverse eateries serving regional and international dishes.

Photos: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons

Tips for eating out

Peak dining time is 13:00‑15:00 and 20:00‑22:00; book tables for larger groups.
Tipping 10 % of the bill is customary but not required.
During Ramadan only takeaway is allowed in daylight; plan iftar meals in advance.