Doha offers a delightful mix of traditional Qatari dishes and regional Gulf flavors that Indian travelers will find both comforting and exciting. From aromatic rice meals to sweet desserts, here are the must-try local foods and the best places to enjoy them.
1. Machboos
Why try it: Qatar’s national dish, Machboos is a spiced rice dish with tender meat or seafood — similar to biryani but with a Gulf twist.
Highlights: – Slow-cooked lamb or chicken – Cardamom and dried lemon flavors – Served with tomato sauce
Where to try: Shay Al Shamoos (Souq Waqif)
Entry: ₹700–₹1,000 per person
2. Harees
Why try it: A comforting porridge made from wheat and meat, often eaten during Ramadan and special occasions.
Highlights: – Smooth texture – Ghee-rich taste – Mild and hearty
Where to try: Al Jasra Traditional Food Restaurant
Entry: ₹600–₹900 per person
3. Madrouba
Why try it: A creamy rice and chicken dish cooked with spices, milk, and butter — Qatari-style comfort food.
Highlights: – Soft, porridge-like consistency – Rich flavor – Popular among locals
Where to try: Bayt Sharq
Entry: ₹800–₹1,200 per person
4. Luqaimat
Why try it: Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey — crisp on the outside, soft inside.
Highlights: – Bite-sized dessert – Sesame toppings – Great evening snack
Where to try: Local stalls at Souq Waqif or Karak Mqanes
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per portion
5. Balaleet
Why try it: A unique breakfast dish combining sweet vermicelli with eggs — a fusion of sweet and savory.
Highlights: – Cardamom and saffron notes – Served warm – Often eaten during Eid
Where to try: Shay Al Shoomos
Entry: ₹400–₹700 per person
6. Saloona
Why try it: A spicy meat and vegetable stew that's often eaten with rice — hearty and homey.
Highlights: – Tomato-based – Often made with lamb or chicken – Perfect with warm bread
Where to try: Damasca One (Souq Waqif)
Entry: ₹800–₹1,100 per person
7. Khubz (Qatari Bread)
Why try it: Traditional oven-baked bread that pairs with almost every local dish.
Highlights: – Served fresh and hot – Crisp edges – Used for dipping and scooping
Where to try: Al Tawash Restaurant
Entry: ₹100–₹200 per piece (served with meals)
8. Grilled Hammour
Why try it: A local white fish seasoned and grilled to perfection — light, flavorful, and fresh.
Highlights: – Served whole or fillet – Chargrilled finish – Local favorite
Where to try: Al Mourjan Restaurant (Corniche)
Entry: ₹1,200–₹1,800 per person
9. Karak Tea
Why try it: A spiced, sweet tea popular with locals — similar to Indian chai but thicker and bolder.
Highlights: – Cardamom kick – Strong and milky – Best as a late-evening sip
Where to try: Chapati & Karak, Katara Cultural Village
Entry: ₹150–₹250 per cup
10. Dates and Arabic Coffee
Why try it: A traditional welcome in Qatari homes, perfect for starting or ending a meal.
Highlights: – Light, unsweetened coffee – Paired with sweet dates – Cultural experience
Where to try: Offered free at many cultural spots or try at Fanar Islamic Cultural Center café
Entry: ₹300–₹500 (paid version at cafes)
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Visit Qatar on Unsplash
