PAUSE Eats: Top Restaurant Picks – Doha

PHOTO CREDIT: Interiors of  SAWA Doha, Courtesy of SAWA Doha

In recent years, Doha has become a hub for food lovers and one of the most highly ranked cities in the world for its culinary scene, thanks to its growing number of international chefs and most sought-after international restaurants. The city’s eclectic dining options continue to evolve, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Doha has embraced global gastronomy, and visitors can find all kinds of cuisine, from Italian, French, Indian, Persian, and Japanese cuisine to fusion restaurants that blend different culinary traditions. We dived into the city’s culinary scene, here are our top restaurant picks that are a must-try if you’re visiting the city.

CUISINE: Levantine      PRICE: ££££

Sawa by Sanad, under the guidance of Executive Chef Anas Tabbara, is a elegant restaurant located in Msheireb Downtown Doha. It offers a modern interpretation of Levantine cuisine, blending traditional flavours with contemporary culinary techniques. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence has earned it a place in the prestigious Michelin Guide Doha 2025.

PAUSE RATES: 5/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

“Absolutely Exceptional” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑     Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑      Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of SAWA Doha

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Paper Moon Doha

CUISINE: Italian      PRICE: ££££

Paper Moon Doha, nominated as the Best Italian, is a renowned Italian restaurant situated in the Jaidah Square Building. Celebrated for its delicious authentic Italian cuisine, the restaurant emphasises the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Italy to craft a variety of classic dishes.

PAUSE RATES: 4/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑

“A plentiful and delicious meal” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑     Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑      Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑

CUISINE: Home-Style Persian      PRICE: £££

Berenjak Doha is a distinguished Persian restaurant located in Doha’s historic Souq Waqif. As the first international expansion of London’s viral Soho location, it offers an authentic taste of Iranian home-style cuisine. The menu is inspired by founder and chef Kian Samyani’s childhood dining experiences with his Iranian family.

PAUSE RATES: 4/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑

“Some of the best Persian food i’ve ever had” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑     Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑      Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Berenjak Doha

PHOTO CREDIT: Interiors of Paper Moon Doha, Courtesy of Paper Moon Doha