Lebanese Flavours By The Sea

AMS discovered tempting tastes and the ideal beachfront destination on a visit to Al Sayyad.

Al Sayyad, located along the beautiful shoreline of the Diplomatic Club in Doha, is a unique spot where we enjoyed delicious food and amazing views. The restaurant’s coveted location, overlooking Doha’s famous skyline, is the perfect coastal spot.

The décor is equally inviting, with vibrant orange cushions on the chairs and tables set under large cream umbrellas, creating a relaxed yet elegant outdoor setting. We had three seating options: indoors, beachfront or in one of the beach huts right on the sand. Since the weather was cool, we chose to eat outside like many other guests. We remarked how we would make a point of coming back in the summer to try the beach hut experience.

The restaurant also had heat lamps and cosy blankets to keep us warm – a thoughtful touch for those who found 18 degrees a little too chilly. Gentle waves added a calming background sound, while traditional Lebanese music played softly, complementing the serene ambiance.

Tasty Starters

We started with hot and cold mezzeh, which were beautifully presented. The fresh vegetables were colourful and crisp and the herbs added a lovely aroma. The Arabic bread was a nice authentic touch and the appetisers topped with pomegranate looked creative and modern. Our favourite was the stuffed grape leaves. They were tangy and savoury, with rice inside that had a perfect mix of flavours.

Passionate Plates

The quality of the dishes at Al Sayyad reflected Chef Joseph’s personal touch and passion for his craft. His dedication to the menu’s creation and his pride in its execution were apparent in every plate. When he visited our table, his enthusiasm for recommending items further showed how much the restaurant values its customers. The menu offered an impressive selection of seafood and meat dishes, each prepared with premium ingredients and meticulous attention to detail.

Special Main Dishes

Chef Joseph told us that the Lobster Thermidor was one of the most popular dishes, with people travelling from far and wide just to try it. Of course, we had to taste it too. The dish had tender lobster meat mixed with mushrooms and saffron rice, all covered in a creamy sauce and melted cheese. It was absolutely delicious. The Irish lamb chops were another highlight. As someone from Ireland, who has eaten a lot of lamb, this dish really impressed me. The meat was top-quality and cooked perfectly.

The chicken from the mixed grill was also spectacular. It had been marinated for 48 hours, giving it a smoky flavour and making the meat so tender it almost fell apart. It was one of the best dishes we’d ever had.

Sweet Desserts

By the time we got to dessert, we were already full, but we couldn’t resist checking the menu. The options were the perfect way to end the meal. We tried the Umm Ali, a warm bowl with layers of pastry, spices, nuts and raisins. It was comforting and full of flavour.

We also chose the chocolate fondant with peanut butter ice cream, and our reaction said it all. The warm, gooey chocolate combined with the cold, creamy ice cream was a fantastic mix of flavours and textures.

We stayed a bit longer, enjoying hot tea while watching children, who were bundled in winter wear, play on the beach.

Great Atmosphere and Service

Al Sayyad caters to a variety of dining needs, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a grand celebration. The main dining area offers breathtaking views, while the indoor seating provides a comfortable, climate-controlled option. For something more intimate or unique, the private beach huts and beachfront rooms add an extra layer of charm. The staff’s friendliness and knowledge stood out, ensuring every detail of our visit was memorable.

It’s easy to see why Al Sayyad is celebrated as one of Doha’s top dining destinations. The stunning location, Chef Joseph’s dedication and the exceptional quality of the food combine to create an unforgettable experience – a must-visit for incredible coastal dining. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of Lebanese cuisine or someone simply looking for a serene seaside meal, Al Sayyad promises a truly special outing. I, for one, will definitely be back. ✤

GO: CALL 4484 7420 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.