AMS experienced a journey into contemporary Japanese cuisine on a visit to Sora Rooftop at Park Hyatt Doha.

We met at Sora for a weeknight dinner, more than ready to leave the stresses of the day behind. From the outset, it felt like the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and settle in. Muted dark wood, soft lighting and modern music created a calm, uncluttered atmosphere. Beyond the glass, the Corniche and Msheireb lay quietly in the distance. Outside, the terrace has views that are hard to beat. On a winter’s night in Doha, it’s difficult to imagine a better spot with a view that never loses its appeal.

One of the team promptly seated us beside the window with water already on the table. We were greeted by the restaurant manager and a member of the marketing team, then introduced to Rajesh, our server for the evening. Edamame magically arrived: something to nibble while easing into the room and the tone of the evening.

What followed shifted our taste buds into overdrive. The beef tartare was clean and finely cut, reminding us of a classic brasserie. A crispy fried potato nest added contrast, while the cured quail egg brought a richness that pulled everything together. Avocado softened the edges, the kimchi sauce added a savoury warmth rather than heat, and the caviar finished it with a restrained saltiness. It definitely set the tone and we knew what was to come was only going to get better.

Sushi Indulgence

Next up was sushi. The lobster maki was fresh and balanced. Sweet lobster and crab were lifted by mango and avocado, with cucumber keeping things light. The spicy yellow chilli sauce and truffle mayo sat subtly beneath, more like a seasoning than a statement. It was like a familiar roll that had been carefully crafted rather than reinvented.

As evening drew in, the terrace really came into its own. People drifted outside to take in the Corniche after dark, drinks in hand, pausing to admire the view before settling back into conversation. Dhows floated quietly in the bay, the city skyline behind them, and there was a gentle buzz in the air.

Next came something richer. The Sora Supesharu maki took things up a notch. Crunchy shrimp tempura, creamy avocado and a generous topping of smoky scallops, salmon and lobster made each bite feel layered. Tobikko popped gently, spring onion cut through the richness, and the mix of spicy mayo, salmon teriyaki and togarashi made us feel this was a classic treated with care.

Fish With Finesse

Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, the black cod was stunning. Marinated for 72 hours in miso, the fish flaked apart effortlessly, eating almost confit-like. The miso had worked deep into the flesh, savoury and slightly sweet, but never masking the cod itself. Understated yet impressive, the dish let its refinement do the talking.

The Australian Wagyu M5 tenderloin followed. It was tender without feeling delicate and the yuzu kosho added a sharp citrus heat that cut through the richness, while the yakiniku sauce gave depth. A mix of sautéed wild mushrooms, shimeji, enoki, eryngii and shiitake, added an earthy note that kept it balanced.

To round off our mains, the lamb shank in massaman curry sauce was an absolute marvel. Slow-cooked and yielding, it was a dish you return to rather than one you analyse. The curry was aromatic, gently spiced, soaking into the meat without overpowering it. If you’re looking for a masterclass on how to use spices, this is it.

At this point, it is impossible not to mention Rajesh. He was outstanding throughout the evening, attentive without hovering, and naturally engaging. His recommendations felt genuine, his pacing was spot on, and his enthusiasm never felt rehearsed. If you get the chance to go to the restaurant, be sure to ask for him.

Symphony of Sweets

Dessert stayed true to the tone of the meal. The chocolate lava cake delivered exactly what it promised, a warm centre flowing easily into vanilla ice cream, with a hint of cinnamon adding warmth rather than spice. The sticky mango rice was comforting and familiar, sweet mango paired with condensed milk-flavoured ice cream. The Japanese cheesecake was light and airy, almost cloud-like, with fruit compote adding just enough sharpness to keep it fresh. Fragrant and calming Jasmine green tea followed, bringing things gently to a close.

Sora is an assured, elevated dining experience that feels genuinely special. Add the terrace and it becomes something even more memorable. We loved the experience and would certainly return for a special celebration, Friday brunch or midweek meal. ✤

GO: CALL 3158 7941 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.