SD discovers homely flavours and culinary excellence on a visit to Rasa.

Rasa at Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha is such a pleasant fusion of Indian flavours with modern, and occasionally healthy twists. Located on the ground level of this popular all-inclusive five-star property, the restaurant leaves a very good first impression.

As soon as we enter, we’re greeted by a smiling hostess and a large, colourful elephant statue made of metal. It’s a playful take on the Indian people’s love for this beautiful creature, and it really livens up the mood.

The dining area, further down on the left, is welcoming and warm, with contemporary décor and vibrant colours, that somehow manage to uplift the atmosphere without being overbearing. An eye-catching mix of teal and orange upholstery blends wonderfully against grey textured walls and a grand orange highlight wall, with white leaf-themed line art. The light bulbs above in circular glass holders add to the ambience.

As we run through the menu, the staff bring us refreshing grapefruit mocktails. Not very typical of India – but still very good. The menu is a mix of north and south Indian delights. Spiced papad are served at our table alongside some aromatic chutney. It’s almost unthinkable these days to start an Indian meal at a restaurant without this staple and Rasa doesn’t disappoint.

Shortly after, a visual treat arrives. Little puri shells perched over a tiny jug of tamarind water – the famous Indian street food Pani Puri – with potato and sprouts inside. Eat it whole, or you’ll have that green water dribbling down your chin.

We patiently wait for the appetisers, with not even an inkling of what’s to come. The grandest presentation of aromatic tandoori bites rolls up to our table. We’re not joking – this trolley is enormous and decorated with a majestic Jaipuri umbrella. Three large plates containing a mix of meat and seafood appetisers sit in front of us, ready to be devoured. The lobster grilled with spices steals the show – every spice is distinct in this silky soft crustacean. The Fish Tikka doesn’t fall far behind – beautifully marinated in turmeric and other Indian flavours, it falls apart like a slab of melting butter. The milk-marinated Malai Chicken is a favourite – don’t mistake it’s subtle taste for weakness. The lamb chops are rich and tender, our knives slide right through. If you’re a true-blue street food lover, you’re no stranger to the classic Mumbai vada pav. This deep-fried potato patty is stuffed into a soft bun with spices and Rasa does it perfectly. What an experience. A properly grand Indian feast. And we are just getting started.

The mains arrive next. We’re stuffed from the appetisers, but who says no to Butter Chicken? And multiple servings of Chicken Biryani. Pro tip – spoon a little of the Butter Chicken gravy onto your Biryani for the ultimate trip to flavour town.

The Paneer Kadhai is a masterpiece of North Indian classic cooking. A creamy, rich gravy with decadent, tender cubes of cottage cheese – it’s familiar but unique, with the perfect level of spice.

Every bit of this meal feels authentic and homely. And even though every last compartment of our stomach pouches is laden with garlic and garam masala, we impatiently wait to see what’s on the dessert menu.

We ask our lovely hostess for recommendations. She brings us a pretty bowl of Rasmalai. This dish is not for the weak – it’s heavy on dairy and even heavier on sugar. But Rasa’s chefs manage to make this acquired-taste-dessert into something of a crowd pleaser. Rich with fruits, cashews and chia seeds, this milk-based sweet is almost addictive. We only pause out of curiosity, to try a healthier version of one of India’s sweetest desserts. We’re a little apprehensive about this Wheat Gulab Jamun but what could go wrong? Absolutely nothing is the right answer. The pillowy balls are doused in a rose and cardamom sweet syrup. What a surprise – it tastes exactly like the regular white flour version of this popular sweet dish.

We wrap up with smiles having discovered a little taste of traditional India right here in Doha. There’s nothing more comforting than Indian food, and it’s better with a side of Indian hospitality. ✤

GO: CALL 4429 8666 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.