Azqa Haroon handholds us through her experience of the new menu at Ruby Wu’s, nestled within the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. Known for its dedication to authentic Chinese cuisine and attention to detail, Ruby Wu’s has long established itself as a go-to for fans of fine Chinese dining in Doha. Now, with a refreshed menu under the guidance of chef Austin Yang, Ruby Wu’s brings an exciting mix of classic dishes with creative, contemporary twists.
Upon entering Ruby Wu’s, I was greeted by a warm, welcoming ambience – a perfect prelude to the culinary experience awaiting me. The revamped and utterly refreshing appetiser menu set the stage with vibrant tastes that were both familiar and new.
The marinated beef with spicy cabbage in Szechuan sauce brought a bold and peppery kick, while the deep-fried prawns with wasabi mayonnaise delivered a crisp texture balanced by a spicy, creamy mayo. The chicken & shrimp dumplings were crafted with rich, savoury fillings, and the hot & sour soup offered a hearty, tangy start with its balanced spice.
The classic mains
Ruby Wu’s main courses highlight the expertise and creativity of chef Austin Yang, combining traditional Chinese techniques with contemporary tastes. The sweet and sour chicken was a delightful harmony of the tangy and the savoury with the tender chicken pieces glazed in a rich sauce that struck a perfect balance between sweet and spicy notes. Each bite of this dish presented a burst of twang, making it an ideal choice for those seeking classic Chinese comfort food.
The beef oyster sauce stir-fry, made with sliced Australian beef tenderloin, mushrooms, and broccoli, was a standout dish that showcased the chef’s attention to texture and seasoning. The beef was exceptionally tender, with the oyster sauce lending a depth of umami that elevated the dish, while the broccoli and mushrooms added earthy zing and a satisfying crunch. For seafood lovers, the sautéed lobster offered an exquisite touch of indulgence. Cooked to perfection, the lobster was succulent – its delicate sweetness complemented by subtle seasoning that highlighted the freshness of the meat without overpowering it.
Rice and noodles
Complementing the main dishes, Ruby Wu’s rice and noodle offerings are equally satisfying and thoughtfully crafted. The Yang Zhou fried rice was a beautifully balanced dish, with shrimp, egg, chicken, lettuce, and spring onion mixed with perfectly cooked rice grains. Each ingredient contributed a layer of wallop, from the delicate sweetness of shrimp to the aromatic spring onion, making this a well-rounded and hearty choice.
The crispy egg noodles with prawns, scallop, squid, and vegetables added both visual appeal and diverse textures to the table. The noodles retained a satisfyingly crisp texture, while the seafood – prawns, scallop, and squid – were tender and juicy, pairing perfectly with the oyster sauce coating. The medley of vegetables brought freshness and crunch, enhancing the overall experience with each bite. This dish exemplified chef Yang’s knack for balancing textures and sapidity, offering diners a vibrant mix of crispy, tender, and savoury notes.
A sweet finale
No Chinese dining experience is complete without a sweet finale, and Ruby Wu’s new dessert offerings did not disappoint. The pandan pancake with palm sugar and coconut stuffing was another standout, combining the delicate gusto of pandan with a luscious coconut filling. This dessert’s texture was spot-on, soft and savoury, offering a comforting sweetness. Lastly, the pineapple tart with vanilla sauce was both delicate and decadent, with a buttery crust holding a sweet pineapple filling, drizzled with vanilla sauce for added richness.
Signature drinks
Throughout the meal, I enjoyed sampling Ruby Wu’s signature drinks, each carefully created to complement the vibrant tastes of the rich Chinese cuisine. Their cocktail menu offered an exotic selection that brings unique tartness for you, featuring intriguing blends of tropical fruits, spices, and fine spirits.
Whether you’re in search of traditional relish or intrigued by contemporary twists, Ruby Wu’s invites you to experience Chinese dining reimagined.
Find It: Ruby Wu’s, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha (East Wing, Lower Lobby)
Hours: Open Wednesday to Monday, 6pm – 11pm.
Call: +974 4428 1555
