If you’re looking for a multi-cuisine restaurant in Doha, then the Desert Rose in Qatar is definitely a must-try. It’s located in Souq Waqif and offers Ukrainian, European and Arabic traditional food that’s as authentic as it is delicious. All these regions use simple ingredients that are rich, nourishing and flavoursome.
The ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team had the chance to try this fine, yet casual restaurant and we have to say the experience was phenomenal and the food extraordinary. And, so here we are, giving you 5 reasons why this restaurant should be the next one you visit.
Desert Rose is located in Souq Waqif and positioned such that you simply can’t miss it. When you come out of the underground parking and enter Souq Waqif, you’ll see it right in front of you.
To ensure every guest of Desert Rose is given the best possible service and privacy as and when they want it, a unique and innovative electronic device has been provided on each table called the ‘Call Waiter’. This device has buttons on it; one button is to call the server, and the other button is for the bell. Each device is connected to a special watch worn by each server. Anytime you need some assistance, you will press the button for service and when you need the bill, you press the bill button.
The purpose of this system is to ensure that you have a complete dining experience at Desert Rose and one where no one is unnecessarily bothering you when you’re in the middle of an important business meeting or deep in conversation with a loved one! It’s upto you when you need something and service will be available at the press of a button. Quite a unique and interesting device!
When it comes to food, Desert Rose has an extensive menu that caters to the tastebuds of all kinds of people no matter their food choice. You can choose from an exquisite range of Ukrainian, European or Arabic foods whether it's a starter you want, main course or dessert. Some of these regions most favourite dishes are on the menu, so order away!
Though there are other soups on the menu, the Ukrainian Borshcht is an absolute must-try. It's full of flavour and easy on the palate. Made of beetroot, with or without meat, and served with sour cream, a herby green sauce and a bun, Borshcht is one of the restaurant's most favourite menu items and you'll find it on almost every table when you visit the restaurant.
Why not try Arabic favourites like the fresh Fatuch, smokey Muthabal, the nutty Muhammara, melt-in-the-mouth deep-fried Halumi sticks or Ukrainian specials like the flavoursome fried potato pancakes called Derynu served with a dollop of sour cream or the delicate Olivie Salad, that's made up of finely chopped vegetables, eggs, chicken and mayonnaise.
This section of the menu has many options and recommendations include the Chicken Biryani. It's got just the right spices and it's full of flavour that will just burst in your mouth. It's served in a tray of dry ice with smoke that spreads across the whole table giving the whole dish an otherworldly look and feel.
The mixed grill is a fusion of Ukrainian and Arabian spices and is an absolute delight. It comes with crispy french fries, a tangy tomato bread, salad and a creamy smooth garlic sauce that you'll love.
You should also try their Chicken Kiev which is a Ukrainian dish made of chicken breast stuffed with herb butter that's fried to perfection. This is served with creamy mash potatoes and a smooth mushroom sauce. Another dish to try here is Varennuku - potato stuffed Ukrainian dumplings served with fried onions.
Now it's time for dessert. The traditional Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes are called Syrnyky and are light and fluffy and go well with the cream and jam they are served with. If you're looking for a traditional Arabic dessert, then you'll also find the crunchy and soft Kounafa on the menu. There's more! Their Homemade Napolean Cake is another must-try dessert. It's a bit like Umm Ali, and yet completely different. It's a melt-in-the-mouth kind of creamy dessert that you'll keep coming back for.
You cannot end your meal at the Desert Rose without having a coffee. Though they have many delicious coffees on the menu, the Royal Belgian Coffee experience is one you must have. This was recommended by the restaurant's owner and simply put - it's out of this world and a unique experience that you may not have had before. The coffee is rich and light at the same time, full of flavour and just so fresh.
It's served using the special Belgian Balancing Siphon Coffee Maker which ensures the coffee that's brewed with it has a pure flavour and is aromatic. You'll probably not have tasted a coffee like this. A must end to that perfect meal!
When you enter Desert Rose, you’ll find yourself transported to another world that’s the perfect combination of Andalusian décor and an Arabian Nights feel. There are different sections in the restaurant- one for important business meetings, one to enjoy a special meal with loved ones in a less busy section and one which is a regular dining area.
Each piece of furniture and décor in the restaurant has been specially handpicked to add authenticity to the restaurant, and you’ll find the traditional Arabic geometric patterns on the wooden screens that separate some of the sections. The restaurant is a perfect fusion of Ukrainian, European and Arabic influences no matter where you turn and this adds to its mystique and aura.
The space has beautifully painted walls and intricately designed mirrors that adorn the different sections in vibrant colours and designs. The ceilings are decorated with gorgeous chandeliers that take you back to Andalusia. All the tables and chairs are unique and there's even a delightful velvet-covered hanging chair where you can take plenty of pictures at!
On 29 February and 29 October 2020, H.H. The Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani dined at Desert Rose with some other officials. As per Desert Rose, they loved the taste and the quality of the food.
So, if you're looking for a great place to hold a business meeting, celebrate a special occasion with loved ones or just meet up with friends in a vibrant and yet cosy atmosphere, Desert Rose is just what you need.
Make a reservation today!
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