Laura Morris took a culinary trip to the land of the dragon at Ruby Wu’s, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha.

As I descended the grand staircase into Ruby Wu’s, the captivating charm of ancient China instantly enveloped me. The archway guided me towards the night’s unforgettable dining experience while vibrant red lanterns illuminated the space, filling the vastness of the grand restaurant. Heard from afar, the sound of flowing water filled the air, gently passing beneath small bridges that connected different sections of the restaurant. Everywhere I looked, immense red vases adorned the room, their intricately detailed designs paying homage to the rich history of Chinese culture. Large tables bore red tableware, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. Carefully considered lighting cast a soft, welcoming glow towards plush benches where we took our seats for the evening.

Ruby Wu’s exuded a bustling, casual vibe, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diners to relax and savour every moment of their culinary journey. The restaurant boasts a well-established, carefully curated menu that hasn’t changed much in recent years. Chef Austin Yang spoke highly of the culinary masterpieces on offer. Each dish showcases the rich heritage and artistry of Chinese cuisine, with complex flavours, exquisite presentation and carefully balanced ingredients.

The appetisers served as a delightful introduction to the culinary journey. The Vegetable Spring Rolls, accompanied by sweet and sour sauce, were a vegetarian masterpiece. The expertly fried rolls offered a satisfying crunch. Inside, the well-seasoned fillings created a harmonious balance of flavours. Next came deep-fried prawns, coated with mayonnaise and black sesame seeds: a true culinary gem. The large, visually appealing prawns were perfectly cooked, maintaining a balance between tenderness and crispness. The creamy mayonnaise added a luxurious texture, enhancing the overall flavour profile.

Can you try any authentic Chinese restaurant without sampling some dim sum? I think not! We opted for the chicken variety, pan-fried to perfection. Served with a soy dip, each piece was a delightful blend of flavours and textures, rich and herby. The exterior boasted a satisfying crispiness, while the interior revealed a succulent and well-seasoned chicken filling. The soy dip provided a savoury counterpart, elevating the overall taste experience of this delectable appetiser.

The main course offerings unveiled a delightful array of Chinese flavours and textures, leaving a lasting impression on my palate. We were delighted at the arrival of the roasted Peking-style duck breast with pancakes, leeks, cucumber and duck sauce – a favourite of mine on any menu! The thinly sliced breast showcased lean and succulent meat that melted in the mouth. Each bite was a delightful combination of savoury flesh, fresh leeks and cucumber, harmonised by the rich and flavourful sauce, of which I always enjoy lashings. And with these generous portion sizes, there was plenty to go around! Our next main was the sautéed sliced chicken, with red and green peppers and Szechuan sauce. This arrived with drama on a sizzling platter, emanating an irresistible aroma. Perfectly cooked and oozing with flavour, the Szechuan sauce added a bold and spicy kick, complemented by the vibrant flavours of charred red and green pepper.

Our final main of the evening did not disappoint – we tasted the stir-fried beef tenderloin with vegetables in black pepper sauce. What a revelation in warmth and creaminess: expertly cooked beef carried a subtle smokiness that heightened its flavour profile while the rich black pepper sauce, perfectly seasoned, provided a creamy aftertaste. On the side, (and one of the best-selling dishes on the menu) the Yang Zhou fried rice with shrimp, egg, chicken and vegetables proved to be a flavour-packed delight. Each forkful revealed a harmonious blend of shrimp, egg and chicken, combined with a medley of vegetables. The fried rice was moreish, with each grain infused with the essence of the ingredients, creating a delicious ensemble that perfectly complemented our range of dishes.

The desserts at Ruby Wu’s added a delightful twist to the culinary journey, offering a sweet and memorable conclusion beyond the usual offerings. The vanilla parfait, passion fruit cube and ganache tartlet presented a delightful combination of textures and flavours. Beautifully presented and packed full of flavours, the creamy and velvety consistency of the parfait paired well with the zesty burst of the passion fruit. Spiced crepes, caramelised pineapple and honey ice cream also offered a unique and enticing combination. The thin and delicate spice-infused crepes provided a delightful texture that encased the caramelised pineapple, while the fruit’s sweetness, enhanced by the caramelisation, played well with the warmth of the spices and a heaped scoop of honey ice cream added a cool and luscious element, creating a perfect marriage of flavours that lingered on the palate.

Ruby Wu’s maintains a casual vibe, with a bustling atmosphere that is both lively and welcoming. It is no wonder that the restaurant has become a go-to dining destination for those seeking an authentic taste of China. In the hands of Chef Yang, experience not just a meal but a captivating journey through the heart and soul of Chinese cuisine. Indulge in the harmonious blend of extraordinary tastes, accompanied by service that transcends the ordinary. ✤

GO: CALL 4428 1555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.