Azqa Haroon recently had the pleasure of dining at the newly revamped Chingari at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha — and what a delightful experience it has been for.
Known as one of the city’s longest-standing Indian restaurants, Chingari has been serving up soulful North Indian cuisine for nearly 30 years. With its fresh new look, digital menu, and a thoughtfully elevated dining experience, this relaunch is more than just cosmetic — it’s a bold new chapter for a Doha classic.
A warm welcome with a touch of melody
From the moment I walked in, the transformation was evident. The redesigned interiors strike a balance between modern elegance and traditional Indian warmth — earthy tones, ambient lighting, and intricate details set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The newly added bar, with its sleek finishes, was a welcome surprise.
As I settled into my seat, I was serenaded by live ghazal music, another signature element that thankfully remains untouched. The combination of music, aromas, and ambience instantly transported me to a more nostalgic, soulful place.
Starters that spark
The menu — now fully digital — makes browsing easy and interactive. For starters, I chose the Sunheri Jhinga, a golden prawn delicacy that lived up to its name with its glistening finish and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The Murgh Malai Kebab was delicately spiced and perfectly charred, offering a creamy richness that I couldn’t get enough of.
Another must-try is the Bukani Kebab — smokey, juicy, and bursting with flavour. Each bite felt thoughtfully prepared, balancing bold Indian spices without overpowering the palate.
Curries, biryani & all the comforts
For mains, I opted for the Murgh Tikka Makhani, a buttery chicken curry that was as rich and satisfying as it sounds, and the Dal Makhani, which was slow-cooked to silky perfection — true comfort food. I paired these with an assortment of fresh naan and saffron biryani, fragrant with cloves and cardamom.
Vegetarian dishes like Kadai Paneer and Palak Aap Ki Pasand stood out with their texture and depth of flavour — a treat for herbivores and meat-lovers alike.
Sweet endings & signature sips
To end the meal on a sweet note, I indulged in the Shahi Tukda, a royal bread pudding topped with saffron-infused cream and pistachios — decadent but not overly sweet. The Malai Pista Kulfi was wonderfully creamy and refreshing.
I also sampled one of Chingari’s signature drinks and cocktails, infused with spices and herbs that paired beautifully with the bold menu.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a loyal guest or a curious newcomer, the refreshed Chingari is a must-visit. It stays true to its heritage while embracing modern dining trends, making it a standout spot for authentic Indian cuisine in Doha. With its live ghazals, intimate private dining spaces, and updated menu, it’s more than a meal – it’s an experience.
Timings: Open daily from 6-11pm.
Find It: Chingari, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha.
Call: +974 4428 1555 or WhatsApp: +974 5582 5738
