Get Ready to Take an Express Taste Tour with Qatar Eating!
When it comes global cuisines the Middle East showcases the best; sizzling grills, sumptuous feasts, delicate seafood and exquisite desserts. QH takes readers on a country-hopping express tour to some of our favourite foodie treasures and happening eateries!
DUBAI
Carnival by Tresind – DIFC
Located in the heart of Dubai’s financial centre this is the youthful and happening little sister to the post-modern Indian Tresind restaurant. Executive Chef Himanshu Saini has once again been given the opportunity to take his childhood favourites and give them the molecular gastronomy treatment.
The interior has a futuristic vibe with a creative twist, and so does the menu. Dishes such as the Jalebi Chaat, the Vada Pav, and the Chaat Wala are brought to diners with a theatrical whimsy – and the flavours match. If you are looking for an outstanding fine dining experience this place stands out in Dubai’s crowded restaurant scene.
Surf Cafe – Umm Suqiem
When you are looking for an all-day breakfast spot then you can’t go wrong with Surf Cafe. Head out to Kite Beach early, enjoy some waves, and when you get peckish pop into this Instagram-worthy eatery.
For the health-focused there are Acai Bowls, Homemade Granola, and a variety of Breakfast Special. The Coffee Lab Experience gives the place a hipster kudos, but the reasonable prices makes it attractive to families too. They also have an excellent seafood and sushi menu – just in case you decide to stay on for lunch and dinner!
Din Tai Fung – Mall of Emirates
Situated in the new Mall of Emirates annex this global dimsum brand brings dumplings, soup, and noodles to the masses. One of its international branches has a Michelin star to its long list of accolades.
The dumplings are the highlight at Din Tai Fung; their XiaLongBao (soup dumplings) require their own chopstick eating method due to the hot soup within the delicate dumpling wrapper. Diners order using a checklist pad and efficient servers transport steaming bamboo baskets to the table straight from the dumpling production open kitchen. Don’t miss the spicy but satisfying Szechuan Shrimp and Chicken Wontons!
BAHRAIN
re Asian Cuisine | Wolfgang Puck – Manama
re Asian Cuisine is an Ode to Wolfgang Puck’s life-long fascination with the Far East. The menu is a culinary love letter to the flavours of South East Asia, with the Dimsum and Robata Meats standing out.
Highlights include the Steamed Bao Buns and the Braised Beef Short Ribs. Located on the 50th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain, the restaurant has spectacular views across the Bahrain Bay so be sure to ask for a table near the window!
Bossy Kitchen – Riffa – NOW CLOSED.
Reflecting modern-day dining trends the Bossy Kitchen brings healthy urban eats to the Bahrain locals. Run by a husband and wife team, the interior is creatively eclectic, whilst the menu caters to all dietary requirements from Paleo to Gluten-Free.
Standout Dishes include the spicy Chicken Waffle Sliders and the flavourful crunchy Beef Parcels, which has a Paleo version that replaces the pastry pouch with spiralised zucchini. Comfortable and satisfyingly healthy – if you never wanted to leave we wouldn’t blame you!
Darseen Cafe – Manama
It’s the unique location within the Bahrain National Museum that attracts diners to this waterfront cafe. Sea views across the Corniche make for an amazing backdrop to the international menu.
Local Bahraini dishes are the highlight of the menu – you must try the traditional Bahraini breakfast dish of eggs, chickpeas, and tomatoes.
LEBANON
Em Sherif – Ashrafieh, Beirut
Em Sherif’s luxurious Arabesque surroundings are reminiscent of days past and the welcome is traditionally Arabic. Opulent surroundings, lavish feasting, and the personal touch – that’s what you are promised when you dine at Mireille Hayek’s contemporary restaurant.
Sharing platters of overflowing mezze, meats and more are brought out of the kitchen without the need to browse a menu. Authentic dishes include Fattoush, Burghol Banadoura, Kibbeh Nayi, and the ubiquitous Arabic dessert Umm Ali.
SUD – Mar Mikhael
This Mediterranean eatery is nestled within the heart of one of the most happening neighbourhoods in town. However, you will only find calm and serenity thanks to its hidden courtyard and interesting interiors.
Although the menu is extensive seafood is the order of the day; each bite of the sea bream carpaccio tastes of summer sunshine! Plates are presented with a finesse that belies the prices, and service is impeccable. Don’t miss the Chocolate Peanut Éclair!
Seza – Mar Mikhael
There is something comforting about Seza with its faded blue window shutters, and quaint but charming interior. Matriarch Grandma Seza treats diners as welcome guests, serving the best of Armenian home cooking with a bistro-style finesse.
Standout dishes include the Kavourma and Frike, a meaty casserole with cracked green wheat. The food is so good you would be tempted to fill up before dessert – but save room for the sweet and sticky Saribourma!
