More Than Meets The Eye

AMS discovered a great menu and vibrant atmosphere while exploring HuqqA Qatar’s delicious dining.

HuqqA Qatar might call itself a hubbly bubbly spot, but it’s so much more! It’s a place where amazing food meets a lively atmosphere. Right from the start, we realised that it’s a full-on dining and social experience. The entrance was like a movie set, with a red carpet, a large archway and trees with fairy lights. The furniture just inside was modern and stylish, with cool metallic touches that made it feel sophisticated but still cosy.

Versatile Space

There was a myriad of seating options, from elegant indoor tables with views of the open kitchen to an outdoor terrace with a fabulous view. We found our perfect spot in the cosy outdoor section, enclosed by a clear barrier and bordered by a charming hedgerow, offering a sense of intimacy without losing the connection to the dynamic atmosphere.

Impressive Start

The meal began with a medley of cold starters, a vibrant array of flavours and textures that set the tone for the rest of the evening. The mixed mezze tray offered an assortment of Middle Eastern classics, from the creamy indulgence of hummus to the tangy brightness of muhammara. The warm, freshly baked bread served alongside this spread elevated each bite, creating a balance of softness and crunch.

Among the starters, the Spinach Tarator with Yogurt was the undeniable standout. Baby spinach, sautéed to a delicate tenderness, rested on a bed of velvety strained yogurt, crowned with crispy onions and a drizzle of rich red oil. The dish was a delightful interplay of creamy, savoury and crispy elements that felt indulgent yet fresh.

The quinoa tabbouleh, a contemporary take on the traditional dish, brought a refreshing twist to the table. Finely chopped greens mingled with pomegranate seeds and cucumber, while the pomegranate syrup infused each bite with a sweet-tart vibrancy. This was a dish that teased the palate, showcasing a playful balance of sweet, tangy and herbal notes.

Warm Delights

The transition from cold to hot starters maintained the culinary momentum with two standout dishes. The Homemade Citir Manti was an exquisite fusion of textures – each dumpling had a golden, crispy exterior that gave way to a tender, flavour-packed filling of spiced meat. Served with a tangy tomato sauce and spicy strained yoghurt, the dish was perfectly balanced, offering a satisfying crunch with every mouthful.

The Wagyu Lahmacun, affectionately dubbed a ‘Turkish pizza’, was equally impressive. The thin, crisp flatbread was topped with richly seasoned Wagyu meat, creating a dish that was both hearty and refined. The parsley and lemon served alongside added a fresh vibrancy, cutting through the richness and enhancing each bite.

Meeting the Master

This provided a great segway into meeting the man behind these wonderful dishes, Chef Dogan. He approached our table with a warm smile, eager to hear our thoughts. Proudly, he shared that he had personally prepared and cooked everything we’d tasted so far. His expertise was unmistakable and it came as no surprise when he revealed that he had arrived only six months ago from Istanbul, bringing with him the authenticity and rich heritage of Turkish cuisine. His passion for his craft was evident in every bite. To underline the commitment to authenticity, chef prepared one of his signature dishes – Beef Leaves Kebab. The tender beef rested on a bed of creamy yoghurt and roasted eggplant, complemented by crispy lavash bread. The combination of textures and bold, earthy flavours was nothing short of exceptional.

A Memorable Dish

Ever the attentive host, Chef Dogan also asked if there was anything else we had our eye on. As lovers of lamb, we couldn’t resist testing the lamb chops – a dish we often use as a benchmark for excellence. We were not disappointed. Juicy, perfectly seasoned and grilled to tender perfection, the chops were a revelation, adding yet another highlight to an already impressive dining experience.

Dramatic Finale

Our evening ended with a touch of theatre. The Milk Baklava was the perfect finale, served in a wooden box over dry ice. As the box was opened, a dramatic plume of vapour rose into the air. The baklava itself, adorned with vibrant berries and pistachio, added a splash of colour and indulgence to the already exceptional meal. As mentioned at the start, while HuqqA is essentially a hookah spot, the quality of the dining here equals – if not surpasses – many of the leading names in the city. The impeccable ingredients, attention to detail and stunning visual presentation are matched by the attentive service from a dedicated team. Mustafa, our server, ensured every need was met with professionalism and care. Coupled with the beautiful and varied environment, HuqqA offers not only exceptional food but also a stunning setting. It’s a place that surprises and delights at every turn. ✤

GO: CALL 4424 4866 FOR MORE INFORMATION.