SPORTS, ATMOSPHERE AND GREAT FOOD

Hannah Nesbitt found that Champions Sports Bar ticked all the boxes.

If you’re looking for a lively hotspot in Doha that will meet all your needs for an entertaining night out, look no further than Champions Sports Bar at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel. This is the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts and socialites alike. With a recent menu re-launch, get ready to be blown away by the unbeatable food deals, live entertainment and quiz nights, which will give you something to look forward to, all week long.

Located in the heart of West Bay, this is the ideal spot to kick back, relax and enjoy the company of friends whilst indulging in some top-quality food and drinks.

Sports shirts and paraphernalia are on show to give that real, sports bar feel. And, with numerous TV screens dispersed throughout the venue, you will get the best possible view and never miss a moment of your favourite sporting event. The seating is organised to give an optimum view of the screens, whether that be within the cosy booths, perched on high stools or taking in the action at the raised table areas.

The down-to-earth, friendly staff are welcoming, fostering a truly laid-back ambience. Popcorn was offered in individual snacksized boxes, while we perused the vast menu. The food on offer is a combination of high-end, gourmet bar food using top quality, fresh ingredients as described by Chef Syed.

Kicking off with a sharing starter of dynamite prawns and the classic Cobb Salad. Each element of the carefully sliced salad offered unique and powerful flavours, none overpowering the other. The flame grilled, gem lettuce was the perfect bed for the expertly poached egg, which had been cooked using the sous vide technique. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and punchy blue cheese, topped with a ranch sauce was simply delicious. The dynamite prawns were stacked carefully in a serving glass. The crunchy tempura batter covered the large, succulent prawns, whilst the sweet, yet spicy sauce added another dimension to the dish. The starter was neither too heavy nor filling, allowing plenty of room for the sizeable mains to follow. To cleanse the palate between courses a frozen berry smoothie was wonderfully refreshing and crisp, topped with fresh raspberries.

The main courses packed plenty of punch and were any meat eater’s dream. The half rack Angus Beef ribs was an impressive sight to behold. The meat had been slow cooked to perfection and came away from the bone at the touch of the fork, falling away to display the chunks of marbling. To further complement the dish was a homemade, tangy barbecue sauce. The rich meaty flavours, crunchy coleslaw salad and salty fries made for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Another staple in any pub grub menu is the Surf and Turf. A quality cut, ribeye steak and six shell on jumbo prawns garnished with delicate pink flowers and coriander were presented in their simplistic glory on one plate. The wellseasoned steak was tender and had been cooked, upon request, to a medium level, which showed in the charred exterior and pink, juicy inner. The prawns provided the most mouth-watering, garlicky goodness. This simple yet luxurious meal was skilfully executed with its distinct and bold flavours. Should these dishes not pique your interest, the menu also features a range of other options including sharing platters, wings, sliders, nachos, sandwiches and burgers. With such a diverse selection, you’re sure to find something that caters for your taste preferences.

Upon the recommendation of Johnson, the everaccommodating bar manager, we sampled the newest menu additions. What better way to get into that sports bar vibe, than with a beloved American favourite, New York Cheesecake, and an apple cobbler. With their own take on the traditional, comforting, apple cobbler, this dish, served warm, was both gooey and delicious. The smooth apple filling was topped with a golden brown, buttery crust. The firm yet wonderfully creamy cheesecake, with a crumbly crust was carefully decorated with colourful summer fruits, including strawberries, blackberries and blueberries.

Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a fun and sociable place to chill after a day at work, Champions certainly meets all these requirements and more. ✤

GO: CALL 4419 5510 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.