Michael Santos took a culinary journey into Qatari cuisine at Feeh Al’Afia.

Located in the vibrant cultural hub of Katara, Feeh Al’Afia is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and delightful culinary experience of Qatari cuisine. As I entered the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the traditional décor and ambience, along with the seven majlises and ballroom, which exuded the Arabic charm and warmth of Qatari culture.

The atmosphere at Feeh Al’Afia is inviting and cosy, with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The dining area is tastefully adorned with Qatari artwork and motifs, creating an ambience that transports you to the heart of the country’s rich heritage. The soft lighting and comfortable seating arrangements contribute to a relaxed and intimate dining experience.

The service at Feeh Al’Afia is impeccable. Rabih, the Restaurant Manager, greeted us warmly and staff member Ibrahim Jamal was knowledgeable about the menu – attentive, friendly and well-versed in the intricacies of Qatari cuisine. They are more than happy to guide you through the menu, recommend options and provide insights into the cultural significance of each dish. Their genuine passion for the cuisine and dedication to customer satisfaction truly enhanced the overall dining experience.

Feeh Al’Afia offers a diverse range of dishes that showcase the art and cooking techniques deeply rooted in Qatari culture. The menu features an array of chicken, meat and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate.

To begin our culinary journey, we were offered Roca Salad, a beautiful medley of fresh ingredients that captured the essence of summer in every bite. The plate arrived adorned with a bed of vibrant rocca leaves. A cucumber with yoghurt dressing left a lasting impression with its refreshing flavours and presentation.

Join us as we delve into the details of these delectable dishes.

For the main course, we chose Lamb Majbous, a traditional Qatari lamb and rice dish. The tender lamb is prepared with a blend of aromatic Arabic spices such as cardamom, cloves, cinnamon and black lime, giving it a smoky and distinct, earthy flavour. The meat was cooked to perfection, incredibly flavourful, tender and succulent and with a hint of smoky flavours. The dish was served with fragrant infused rice, which offered the perfect accompaniment to the richness of the lamb.

Our second dish was the Mandi Chicken, fragrantly spiced with aromatic rice and slow cooked in an underground oven covered with sand at 200 degrees celsius for three hours. The chicken was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy and infused with a harmonious blend of spices, creating a burst of flavour on the taste buds. The accompanying rice was fluffy, complementing the chicken beautifully.

The dish that stood out most for me was the Harees, a hearty mix of ground wheat and slow-cooked lamb. A Qatari household staple food, the lamb is simmered with a medley of spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg, until it becomes tender and falls apart, then blended by hand with the wheat to form a thick porridge-like consistency. Harees has a comforting and creamy texture and is often enjoyed on special occasions, so it was definitely fitting for our journey.

No Qatari dining experience would complete without indulging in a traditional dessert. We opted for Sago Assida and Ma’amoul, two exceptional Qatari offerings that stand out among the myriad of Arabic desserts. These conventional treats captivate with their unique textures and delectable taste.

The Sago Assida, or sago pudding, is a treasured recipe from the Arabian Peninsula, a creamy delight made from sago pearls. The pearls are cooked in milk, resulting in a velvety and starchy texture that is comforting and indulgent. The taste is delicately sweet with a hint of cardamom and rose water, infusing it with subtle floral notes that elevate the overall taste. The Ma’amoul cookies were filled with a luscious mixture of finely chopped dates, complemented by a medley of aromatic spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The delicate dough, made from semolina, flour and butter, encased the flavourful centre, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. The sweetness of the dates combined with rich ice cream melded beautifully with the crumbly exterior, leaving an unforgettable impression on the palate. A refreshing, traditional respite during hot summer days or a delightful end to a hearty meal.

Overall, Feeh Al’Afia offers a truly immersive culinary experience that celebrates the essence of Qatari cuisine. From the warm and welcoming ambience to the attentive service and mouthwatering dishes, our dining experience was carefully curated to provide an authentic taste of Qatar’s gastronomic heritage. Attention to detail, commitment to the quality of the food and reasonable pricing make Feeh Al’Afia a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Katara. ✤

GO: CALL 4408 1600 OR 3303 1600 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.