Why You Should Explore Local Food Markets in Doha

Doha boasts a rich culture that trickles down to its culinary scene; the place is a smorgasbord of delights for savouring not only regional cuisine but international favourites. This article explores the best foodie districts in Doha for you to explore. Uncover the delights of souks overflowing with character, home to courtyards where the aroma of food and fresh coffee hangs in the air. Discover the best restaurants in Doha and street food districts to enjoy as you explore the local food markets of Doha.

Check Out the Ladies-Only Dining Experience

Are you travelling to Doha with the girl gang? As one of the UAE's safest destinations for solo female travellers to explore, Doha is certainly worth planning a trip to with the girls. So, here's a unique angle you can check out to not only enjoy the mouthwatering cuisine but also the delights of ladies-only dining. There are several top restaurants in Doha to enjoy a majlis staycation, which refers to a traditional experience focused on savouring the cultural norms of the destination. Hence, being an Islamic nation, exclusive ladies-only quarters are common and loads of fun to experience in Doha. Among the top restaurants in Wakra is Mahaadeg, located at Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar By Tivoli. This eatery, like others similar to it, is a sunny cafe that offers ladies-only dining and gorgeous views of the ocean, as you indulge in Arabic delights and mocktails, and try out the shisha pipe.

The Best Street Food to Explore in Doha

Arabic flavours combine with international tastes at the street food stalls of Doha. Explore the markets, like the popular Al Wakra Market, where a range of dishes are yours to explore. Here are some popular bites to try as you explore top attractions in Doha.

Crispy Samboosa: These crispy triangle-shaped pastries are a must-try, filled with savoury vegetables and meat; samboosas are similar to samosas and are packed with flavour. Especially when you enjoy it with a cup of popular karak chai, an aromatic tea infused with local spices.

Shawarma Wraps: A popular street food, shawarma is ideal to settle the munchies as you sightsee in Doha. You will see meat rotating on a spit, which is sliced thinly before being wrapped in flatbread with fresh crunchy vegetables to create the classic shawarma wrap.

Filling Falafel: Nutritious, filling, and delicious, falafel is a crispy type of cutlet made with chickpeas, vegetables, and spices. The deep-fried balls or discs are wrapped in pita bread and eaten as a filling snack.

Delightful Kebabs: Grilled meat, usually chicken or lamb, makes the very popular kebabs found at just about every foodie district and restaurant in Doha. Skewers with juicy chunks of meat are popped on the grill, their smoky aroma permeating the air and making your mouth water.

Sweet Delights: There are plenty of sweet treats to explore as you enjoy walking around Doha. One popular option is knafeh; it's a decadent sweet that is both cheesy and delightfully sweet, as it is soaked in a thick sugary syrup. If you have a sweet tooth, then this delight is certainly worth savouring.

Seafood Delights at Al Wakra Corniche 

Easy to access from Al Wakra hotels, the Al Wakra Souq is one of the oldest traditional markets near Doha. The name translates to old city, as the market is built on the site of a heritage city that is over 200 years old. Plus, it is located on the corniche, where you will discover several popular dining options and oceanfront views. Locally known as the heritage market, the bazaar is a delight to explore for local products, including food. Explore the food zones where traditional Arabic and Yemeni dishes are available, together with international favourites. Check out the barbeque fish options at Danat Al Bahar, as seafood is a popular option, with fresh options freely available in the area.

Savour Sunsets and Arabic Food

Head over to the Markhan Restaurant where you can savour traditional Arabic food in a sunny cafe atmosphere. Not to be forgotten are the drinks, comprising traditional tea and coffee as well as delicious mocktails. Located close to the Al Wakra Souq, this eatery is a popular restaurant in Doha for its selection of comfort foods that you can enjoy alongside stunning views of sunsets over the corniche.