AMS indulged in an upmarket pizza feast on a visit to Cecconi’s.

Is there a better way to spend a Friday afternoon in Doha than lost in jazz and the scent of wood-fired dough? The Ned Doha certainly makes a strong case.

The midday sun spilled through tall windows and danced across the polished marble floor as we arrived. Cecconi’s sat quietly to the right of the grand vaulted lobby, as if observing the comings and goings of families drifting past towards the pool. Inside, the space was warm and intimate – mid-century Italian glamour brought to life with deep teal velvet chairs, marble-topped tables, dark wood panelling and softly glowing lamps. A gleaming bar stood at the centre, framed by gold accents and lit from above by vintage chandeliers that cast a soft glow across the room.

A Warm Welcome

Amine, the Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, greeted us with warm enthusiasm. His calm confidence, paired with a genuine charm, set the tone from the start. Attentive without being overbearing, he orchestrated the experience with the ease of a seasoned maître d’. It was also thanks to him that we met the Italian maestro behind the menu, who spoke with pride and passion about each creation.

This was Pizza Pazza, Cecconi’s weekly ode to the art of the pizza, with unlimited slices and soft drinks from midday until 3pm. But this was no conveyor belt brunch. It was a curated tasting, with thin-crust pizzas brought one at a time, still hot from the oven, each one introduced with pride and enthusiasm by the attentive staff.

A Flavourful Prelude

Before the pizzas even began, we were treated to two surprises from the kitchen: plump truffle arancini, with a subtle whisper of the prized fungi, and calamari, with a sprinkling of smoked paprika, so delicately crisp it seemed to melt the moment it touched the tongue. The batter was ultra-light, just enough to hold the curl of squid within.

The Pizza Funghi arrived first – an earthy, umami-rich combination of sautéed mushrooms and nutty parmesan, lifted by the creamy softness of melted fontina and a light dusting of chilli flakes. The crust was thin, blistered in all the right places, with a satisfying chew that left just enough room for the toppings to shine.

The Margherita was a masterclass in simplicity. Vibrant tomato and fragrant basil formed the backdrop for generous blobs of buffalo mozzarella, which oozed luxuriously with every bite. It was familiar yet elevated – comfort food for fine dining.

Things took a fiery turn with the Diavola, a bold, beefy number topped with spicy spianata. The meat curled at the edges where the heat had caught it, releasing little pockets of oil that mingled beautifully with the cheese. It had just the right amount of kick to keep us reaching for another slice.

Savouring the Moment

As the afternoon drifted on, the light shifted across the space, casting warm shadows over white tablecloths. Staff glided between tables with an easy rhythm, topping up drinks, offering extra slices, checking in without fuss. Around us, a gentle hum of conversation rose and fell as families ambled past, en route to the pool or simply enjoying the open lobby’s grandeur.

After a trio of indulgent classics, it was time to tuck into something a little more garden-fresh. Next came the Ortolana Garden Pizza, a colourful medley of seasonal vegetables on a base of rich tomato sauce and mozzarella. This one felt lighter, fresher and entirely vegetarian without sacrificing flavour. Sweet peppers and soft courgettes brought contrast to the creamy base, making it the ideal mid-way palate reset.

Finally, the Quattro Formaggi – a decadent, velvety blend of Gorgonzola, smoked scamorza, parmesan and mozzarella – came topped with curls of bresaola and a scattering of peppery rocket. Smoky, salty and satisfyingly pungent, it was rich without being overwhelming, and proof that when four cheeses come together in harmony, something magical happens.

Cecconi’s has managed something rare: a relaxed brunch that still feels refined, led by a team who clearly care about the details. With Amine’s impeccable hosting, the culinary precision and a menu that celebrates classic Italian craft, Pizza Pazza is an experience well worth lingering over. We will definitely be back. ✤

GO: CALL 4406 1111 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.