The MICHELIN Guide Doha 2025 was unveiled at a grand ceremony held at the Katara Hall, Raffles Doha, celebrating 33 exceptional establishments.
“We are delighted to announce The MICHELIN Guide’s arrival in Qatar with our first Guide to Doha,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guide. “Our famously anonymous Inspectors have explored and experienced the city’s restaurants and their cuisines from all around the world and have selected the very best, across all price ranges and styles.”
“This inaugural selection not only celebrates the best of Doha’s dining scene but will also put the city on the international culinary map. The selection of these 33 restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide is testament to the many talented chefs and culinary teams who have made Doha their home and who bring passion, creativity, and respect for local traditions to their craft.”
The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors evaluated the restaurants based on their globally consistent five criteria: the quality of the ingredients; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of flavours; expression of the chef’s personality in the cuisine; and consistency, both over time and across the entire menu.
Two restaurants earned one MICHELIN star
Jamavar: This sister restaurant to the London establishment showcased a wide range of Indian dishes, prepared with exceptional skill and care by Head Chef Debdash Balaga. Specialties included Laal Maas, a lamb shank slow cooked for eight hours.
IDAM by Alain Ducasse: Chef Fabrice Rosso infused Qatari influences into Alain Ducasse’s signature style. The use of local ingredients and spices elevated the dining experience to new heights.
Four restaurants received Bib Gourmand recognition
Named after Bibendum, the Michelin Man, the Bib Gourmand recognised restaurants offering great quality and value.
Isaan: Known for its three open kitchens, the team prepared regional specialties and Thai dishes with expertise.
Jiwan: Located at the Qatar National Museum, this restaurant reinterpreted Qatari dishes with a modern twist.
Argan: Situated near Souq Waqif, Argan offered authentic Moroccan dishes at great value.
Hoppers: Known for its Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine, this outpost of the London original stood out for its bold flavours.
MICHELIN Guide special awards
The MICHELIN Guide’s Special Awards celebrated diverse roles and exceptional talent within the hospitality industry.
Young Chef Award: Sirijan Saelee of Isaan earned this award for her expertise in managing the restaurant’s diverse kitchens, showcasing Thailand’s culinary traditions.
Service Award: Paulo Bastos and his team at Morimoto were recognised for their impeccable service, ensuring diners felt valued and cared for.
Exceptional Cocktails Award: Robi Ratan from IDAM by Alain Ducasse impressed with his inventive mocktails, skilfully crafted using local spices, fruits, and ingredients to enhance the dining experience.
The full Doha selection was made available in digital format across all official MICHELIN Guide platforms, including its website, mobile app, and social media.
The MICHELIN Guide continued to uphold its legacy as a benchmark in gastronomy while setting new standards for hotels.
