Qatar’s top 10 affordable restaurants

For travel clients on budget itineraries, here’s a list of the best affordable feasts in Qatar

With the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 around the corner, the country  is set to welcome football fans from around the world. While Qatar is renowned for its luxury hospitality offerings, the Gulf nation is also home to a vast array of lesser known casual dining concepts for a satisfying pre- or post-match meal. For travel clients on budget itineraries, here’s a list of the best affordable feasts in Qatar.

1. Shay AlShomous
Owned and run by a Qatari woman called Shams Al Qassab, Shay AlShomous is located in a corner of Doha’s Souq Waqif. With all menu items priced under $7, it’s known for its breakfast rush and authentic Qatari cuisine. www.instagram.com/shay_alshomous

Shay AlShomous

2. Chapati & Karak
Serving a range of flavoured chapati and innovative teas to satisfy sweet and savoury cravings, Chapati & Karak is located in Katara Cultural Village and is the place to go for a quick midday snack for under $2. www.chapatikarak.com 

Chapati Karak

3. Karak Mqanes
For Qatari cuisine with a hint of local charm, head to Karak Mqanes. With more than 20 locations dotted across the country and most dishes priced under $5, popular items include the traditional breakfast, tempting desserts and authentic spiced karak tea. www.karakmqanes.com  

Karak Mqanes

4. Turkey Central Restaurant
Popular with both locals and expats, Turkey Central is set in the heart of Doha and is known for its mouth-watering yet affordable menu and prompt service. Favourites include sharing platters such as the  mixed mezze ($8) and the mixed grill ($9) and diners are advised to arrive early due to the restaurant’s first come, first served policy. www.instagram.com/turkeycentralrestaurant

Turkey Central

5. Petra
A well known spot for light bites, Petra serves Middle Eastern dishes that are budget friendly with all sandwiches under $2. Popular choices include the falafel and chicken sandwiches, ordered two at a time. www.petragroup.qa 

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6. Marmara Istanbul Restaurant
Serving arguably the best shawarmas in Qatar, Marmara is a constant hive of activity from the time it opens at 9am until it shuts its doors at 4am. Priced at $3.50 and $2 for large and regular-sized shawarma respectively, this a great stop for a meal on the go. +974 4486 3527

7. Sabah W Masa
Serving some of the best Lebanese cuisine in the country, Lebanese restaurant Sabah W Masa is known for its falafel but guests can choose from a wide menu of freshly prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes. www.sabahwmasa.com 

Sabah W Masa

8. Ali Al Naama Café
A crowd favourite for its quick service and low-priced menu with most items under $4, Ali Al Naama Café is a local eatery set in Doha’s Souq Waqif. In the cooler months, diners flock to the traditional outdoor seating to enjoy the popular combination of the egg and cheese paratha and a cup of karak. Ali Al Naama Café, Souk Waqif

9. Biryani Corner
Fans of south-Asian cuisine can sample Biryani Corner’s signature dish for under $5. The restaurant’s vast biryani selection includes vegetable, egg, chicken and mutton versions and can be paired with sides including papadums, pickled vegetables and yoghurt. +974 4437 2200

Biryani Corner

10. TeaTime
Open 24/7 and serving burgers, wraps, snacks and its famous karak, TeaTime is a popular haunt with expats and locals alike for a late-night takeaway. Most dishes come in at under $4 and there are several branches across Doha. www.teatime.qa 

Tea Time

Speaking about the country’s casual food and beverage offering, Qatar Tourism chief operating officer Berthold Trenkel said: “Sometimes, all a traveller wants is a quick, affordable but delicious meal to get them through the day. In Qatar, visitors can grab a shawarma with meat fresh off the grill, or dip warm falafel into tahini for just a few Qatari riyals. With a never-ending portfolio of pocket-friendly bites on every street corner, sometimes the simplest meals are the best. Football fans should get ready to be wowed with our low-cost sweet and savoury sensations.”

 Partner content in association with Qatar Tourism