FACT’s Asad Khan embarked on a journey of flavours as he headed to the newly opened Novecento at InterContinental Doha — a vibe of its own!

It’s just been a month and the city has been buzzing ever since InterContinental Doha revamped The Lounge to Novecento, an Italian-French restaurant. Its tantalising, unique menu and aromatic flavours have been the talk of the town.

The modern and iconic take on al fresco dining leaves guests with a lasting impression as it is set amidst the beautiful architecture of the hotel, overlooking the beach and the pool. As for the final touches in terms of the terrace, think cane chairs, beautiful marble-top tables and the sounds of Italian and French melodies. Each dish on the menu is a simple blend of flavours from authentic Parisian and Italian cuisine. We started off our food affair with Mushroom Creamy Soup and Quinoa Kale Salad. The salad was so virtuous that eating this grain bowl, topped with spiced pumpkin, almonds and passion fruit dressing, had us befuddled as to whether we wanted to just relish this and call it a day or keep space for anything else on the menu. The salad bowl ingredients were expanded with the inclusion of seafood. And you can also taste a zest of lemon that gives the entire recipe a kick. The bestselling menu item for appetisers has to be this. A perfect mix of vegetable proteins and good fats.

The mushroom soup also came with a little surprise: brie cheese croquettes floating within the bowl. The cheese was melted even before it reached my mouth. A cheeselicious affair!

Diving deeper into the menu, for the mains, we took on the Classic and Salmon as Tarte Flambēe — a French take on the Italian pizza. The only difference between the two was the topping, the classic came with beef bacon while its companion included smoked salmon. Both featured sour cream and onions as well. This food was all about comfort, the old-world way. The salmon with mesclun was velvet softness, if you can imagine that. The onions were cut extremely finely and then thrown into the fresh sour cream on the bread dough that did not exceed 3mm. I believe that this is the only place in Doha where you can actually relish the perfect Tarte Flambēe. However, I was only able to nab two slices, because my friend gobbled it up and also because our server told us the next main on the menu, Tortellini (ricotta and spinach with saffron sauce and shaved, aged parmesan) was on its way from the kitchen. Another winner — particularly for its saffron sauce that was a perfect balance of slightly sweet yet earthy.

We ended this gastronomical journey with Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Tart, Chocolate Praline and French Toast paired with Hazelnut Hot Chocolate. The clouds and weather called for a warm ending. If the flavours of the Chocolate Praline aren’t enough to convince you, then the textures of this dessert will! From intimate ambiance to indulgent cuisine, Novecento is a must-try for anyone looking for outdoor dining, unique dishes and a fresh vibe. An experience of its own.✤

GO: CALL 4484 444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.