Can you keep a secret? Well, we certainly can’t. Aside from bringing you the best in local events, dining and entertainment, every so often we like to head underground and discover the stuff Qatar residents are talking about when they’re not engrossed in their favourite magazine. From foodie faves that haven’t hit the mainstream yet to hidden gems where you can connect with nature without the, seemingly ever present, crowds, we’ve been investigating and come up with a happy dozen hidden gems for you to explore.

Adore Again

Believe it or not, we’ve found Qatar’s only thrift shop. OK, it’s not a permanent physical presence, yet. But the intention is definitely there and, in the meantime, you can find Adore Again at pop-ups and various markets. Born in June 2023, co-founder Aditi Singh explains: “The inspiration came from personal experiences among myself and my two cofounders, we own an extensive wardrobe and often find ourselves purchasing new items for every occasion. We frequently admired and exchanged each other’s dresses, which sparked the realisation of how beneficial a larger-scale exchange could be – not just for us, but for the environment as well. This led to the creation of Adore Again, aiming to extend the life of clothes, accessories, books, toys, art and home decor through a community-driven platform.”

Good Finds Market

And, if that wasn’t enough, check out the collaboration between Torba Market and Qatar Museums. It’s a platform to educate about the circular economy and keep items out of landfill. With the tagline “Bringing independent artists, vintage lovers and retro revellers to Doha’s most creative space!” it’s a brilliant initiative where you’ll find all sorts from vintage furniture to homemade foods and loads more. The latest pop-up took place at Doha Fire Station and, though that’s done for the current season, keep your eyes peeled for news of the next initiative, The Shore at West Bay Beach.
Find them @goodfindsqa

Qatar Vinyls Store

With the quality of vinyl records once again being recognised (now that really is full circle), we were intrigued to discover this gem in Insta and, even better, they offer next-day delivery and there are some absolute classics to be had from their inventory – Urban Outfitters exclusive red transparent One Direction LP anyone? This is probably one of the things we’re most excited about in this feature! You can also find a physical selection of vinyls to add to your collection at FNAC and Alif Stores.
Find them @vinyls.qtr @fnacqatar @alifstoresqa

Torba Farm

Still on the subject of sustainability, we couldn’t be more in love with Torba Farm. Five years ago, twins Mohammed and Fatma Al Khater took over the family farm. Mohammed had developed an interest in reviving time-honoured Arabic medicinal herbs and re-establishing native Qatari flora, particularly plants that had traditional uses in the local culture, either as food or as medicine. Fatma had grown aware of the disconnect that we have as a population with the land and our understanding of where our food comes from. She was inspired by the farmers markets of the UK and wanted to be able use the farm to grow organic fresh produce, then create a local market in an effort to reconnect people with their food and inspire a new community of like-minded people. Five years on and Torba is a haven for wildlife and organic production that’s built a community of enthusiasts and sustainable entrepreneurship.
Find them at www.torba.qa

Qur’anic Botanic Garden (QBG)

A world-first for Qatar and a place we can’t wait to visit, QBG exhibits the plants mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH). It aims to enhance and spread knowledge about these plants, the terms associated with them and how they are cared for and preserved. Based on the Islamic principles that encourage environmental conservation and preservation, QBG applies a comprehensive programme for plant conservation in Qatar both for plants in their natural habitat and elsewhere and it also runs programmes to increase local knowledge.
Find them @qbg.org.qa

Caravan.com

We all know the saying ‘Life’s better at the beach’ and we couldn’t agree more. But, if you’re not interested in five-star resorts and want something a bit more than an umbrella in the sand, check out Caravan.com at Al Ghariya Beach where you can hire everything from caravan-style beach cabanas to fire pits and even beach buggies. The beach is public and you can even stay overnight and take advantage of watersports and bikes too.
Find them @caravan.com.qa

Barzan Towers

Certainly not something new but definitely worth a visit, the Barzan Towers are found about 20km north of Doha in the village of Umm Salal Mohammed, which was developed in 1910 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani. Folklore suggests they may have been used as lookouts for the pearling ships but, their distance from the shore renders this unlikely and it’s more possible they were used to monitor the surrounding village and arable lands. Restored in 2014, they’re now situated in a garden with native plants, perfect for an interesting day trip.
Find more information at qm.org.qa

Bin Jelmood House

A museum that show’s Qatar’s ability to face up to its own, sometimes uncomfortable, past looking, as it does, at slavery and the exploitation of labour over the years. Among four restored houses that are part of Msheireb Museums, the house itself and the stories it tells are a fascinating lesson for the modern day.
Find more information at msheirebmuseums.com

Duck Lake – The Pearl

Not content with providing a lake abundant with real ducks, you can also take a ride in a pedalo that resembles one of the feathered creatures at this relatively new family fun spot at The Pearl. Take some goodies to feed the ducks and enjoy the walking and cycling trails. It’s cashless, so you’ll need to make card payments if you want to take a boat out.
Find more information @thepearlqatar

Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day

If your tastes run to the somewhat other worldly, then this one’s for you. A site-specific installation in the desert to the north of Al Zubarah, the piece is the work of Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. The 20 circular shelters, three single rings and two double rings that make up the installation seem be scattered about the desert landscape at random but they are, in fact, sited with mathematical precision. Their mirrored rooves form fantastical shapes inviting contemplation in the desert’s peaceful silence.
Find out more information @qm.org.qa

Boba Chill Café

For this one, we’re all about the décor. Of course, we love a bubble tea as much as the next person and we’re certainly partial to their waffles and creatively topped toast. But, what sets Boba Chill Café apart is the abundance of soft plushies and the sky café feel that leaves you thinking your in the clouds. We could truly stay all day.
Find them @bobachillcafe

Thattu Kada Restaurant

Another one where we’re here for one thing and one thing only. Head to Thattu Kada for the crabs cooked Indian style, fiery hot and finger-licking good. Yes, there are plenty of other things on the menu to enjoy, and we do, regularly, but you really can’t visit this little eatery in New Salata without trying the crabs.
Call 3363 8922 for more information.