If there's one strikingly-obvious common denominator between Qatar and Brazil, it has to be the two nations' fondness and affinity for football. And, although Qatar is far behind Brazil's 3.2 million square miles in terms of land area, there's still a reasonable number of Brazilian expats based in Doha -- with close to 1,500 according to July 2016 statistics.
Hence, it comes as no surprise to discover that these commonalities have also extended into the realm of the culinary -- as the advent of Brazilian cuisine in Qatar continues to take a tasty foothold.
Brazilian gastronomic tradition evolved from indigenous, European, and African influences. Being the fifth largest country in the world both in terms of geographical size and population, Brazil's food scene varies greatly by region, reflecting the country's mix of native and immigrant populations, and its continental size as well.
Brazil also claims to be South America’s barbecue champion, and these Doha restaurants featuring churrascaria -- the Portuguese art of barbecuing -- live up to the title:
If you're up for a carnivorous parade, then Ipanema in the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha will provide you with more than you could ask for! Customers rave about the restaurant's top-notch service and mouth-watering menu, not to mention the aromatic smell that greets you first thing upon entering its premises. Though the live music from the house band may tend to get overloud, Ipanema's strength lies on the 15 different kinds of meat on offer. These include duck breast, lamb chops, chicken wings, and their house-famous beef short-ribs, which are so juicy that you don't even need a knife to cut them. The price for two ranges from QR 500-600 -- it's costly, we know -- but their pleasantly-surprising grilled sweet pineapple and luscious melt-in-your-mouth cuts of Brazilian picanha makes it well worth the splurge!
Location: Level 2, South Tower, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
Timings: Daily from 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. except on Fridays 12:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Contact: (+974) 4419-5000
'Rodizio' -- meaning 'all-you-can-eat' -- prepares customers' orders over the open flame in the heart of the outlet, serving the meat on skewers, to allow guests to choose how much or how little they want. Sounds cool? Topping the variety of meat, poultry, and seafood is an extensive beverage menu that complements the churrascaria's offerings!
When asked what dish he'd recommend to those unfamiliar with Brazilian food, Rodizio's Masterchef Mateus Vera said that his favourite Brazilian dishes are Churrasco (grilled meats), Moqueca de Peixe (fish stew), Bobo de Camarao (shrimps with cassava purée) and tapioca. "But I would recommend Feijoada, which is black bean stew with a mixture of salted, smoked, and fresh meats served with sautéed collard greens and white rice. This dish is very traditional in Brazil so if you go there, you should definitely try it!"
Location: Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park, Airport Road
Timings: Sunday - Friday from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Contact number: (+974) 4408-7777
Claiming to be the first stand-alone Brazilian restaurant for South American food fans in Qatar, Copacabana was erected just two years ago in the picturesque Souq Al Wakrah. Once inside, a typical foodie can conquer his or her hunger amid the restaurant's intricately-plotted interior. Every aspect of Copacabana, from the decorations, the menu, and the entertainment has been designed attentively to give diners a real Brazilian experience. With the winter season blanketing the region, both Copacabana and the underrated Souq Al Wakrah are finally getting the attention they deserve from the public. This gem of a restaurant can seat 150 guests with an overlooking sea view that can't be beat!
Location: Souq Al Wakrah
Timings: Daily from 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Contact number: (+974) 3119-6242
Joining a roster of Doha Festival City (DFC) heavyweights such as The Cheesecake Factory, Lina's Paris, and Five Guys, Texas De Brazil will soon join their ranks! The future addition to DFC's ever-growing chain of restaurants and cafés combines the culture and feasts of Brazil with elevated service and ambiance. Brazilian food-lovers will finally have a new hangout spot after having a blast in the Angry Birds World theme park, conquering a Virtuocity escape room, or watching a blockbuster in the 18-screen VOX cinema! We can't wait for Texas De Brazil to open!
Location: Doha Festival City mall (beside IKEA)
Timings: Daily from 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Contact number: To be confirmed
Have you sampled Brazilian food in Qatar at one of these outlets? Or, maybe you're a meat-lover and this article made you sweat? If so, drop us a line in the comments below and let us know what you think! Also, don't forget to like and share this article!
(Cover photo courtesy of Last Minute Travel Blog)
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