The popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine is cleansing the pallet of many tourists who take a trip over to Qatar, Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates. The menus in restaurants in KSA and throughout the Middle East are varied, contemporary and idiosyncratic, and are increasingly tailored to the styles of the modern day traveler. This guide aims to highlight some of the best eateries in the region.
Restaurants in Dubai
Pierchic: A restaurant set on a bedecked pier jutting out into the Arabian Gulf, this venue serves some of the most diverse and wonderful seafood cuisine in all of the Middle East. Pierchic is far away from the densely populated cities and has more of a focus on displaying the tranquil serenity of the sea.
Margaux: Executive Chef Julian Mercier first opened Margaux after learning under the legendary wing of triple Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse. The cuisine offered by the restaurant is of Mediterranean and French origin, and its décor is inspired by the same aspects of European culture.
Zheng He’s: Award-winning culinary artists at Zheng He’s present dishes that are drenched in Middle Eastern culture, whilst still retaining some of the old Chinese flavours. The setting, which is by the dockside, gives off a peaceful ambience which reflects the restaurant’s character.
Restaurants in Riyadh
The Globe: Romantic, sophisticated and elegant, The Globe is one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious eateries. Situated atop the Al Faisaliah Tower in a glassy orb, this fine-dining institution offers its guests traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine along with many European options.
Elements: The chefs at this restaurant like to involve the customer, as they present cuisine from all over the world in an interactive and lively environment. Elements serves breakfast, lunch and an a la carte menu, which can cater for even the fussiest of palates.
Karam Beirut: If you’re looking for a taste of Lebanon, look no further than this highly rated establishment. Popular dishes include the lamb cutlets and the mezze, as well as the traditional dish of fattoush. The restaurant is a popular destination for locals and travelers alike, so leave plenty of time to get a table.
Restaurants in Doha
The Cellar: This restaurant has mastered the art of serving distinct Spanish tapas, whilst simultaneously being able to offer guests a range of Mediterranean delights. Although the venue has expertise in serving tapas, it does offer a full range of fare to suit everyone’s tastes.
Ruby Wu’s: In the Doha Raddison Blue hotel lies a hidden gem known as Ruby Wu’s. Expertly prepared dishes that span the full culinary map of China are served with care and skill. The quality of food in the restaurant is always of the highest standard, and it is a great place to eat out before sampling all the sights that Doha has to offer.
Ric’s Country Kitchen: A far cry from the countryside, Ric’s Country Kitchen is situated in down-town Doha. The rather low-key venue is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. Importantly, its homemade food speaks for itself, and it can all be enjoyed in a homely and welcoming atmosphere.
Sponsored post. Photos by Brian G. Wilson and acezz3000, used under the Creative Commons License.
In a time when disclosing if a post is sponsored is very rare, I always have high respect to those who do. 🙂
PS Rics Kountry Kitchen is a definite must if you ever find yourself in Doha.