As a city that blends old-world charm with modern elegance, Doha offers far more than just iconic skyline views and luxury malls. To truly experience its soul, you need the guidance of someone who lives and breathes the city’s rhythm every day. So, we asked one of our seasoned concierges at Shaza Doha to share their favorite recommendations—for food, culture, and hidden gems that even many locals overlook.
Here’s how to explore Doha like an insider—with Shaza Doha as your elegant home base.
Discover Damascus Nights Every Thursday at Midan
Tucked at the 1st floor of Shaza Doha, Midan restaurant comes alive every Thursday evening with the Damascus Night Buffet—a culinary celebration of authentic Syrian cuisine, carefully curated by our very own Chef Hekmat Barakat.
Guests are invited on a journey through the streets of old Damascus, where every dish tells a story—from velvety hummus and spicy muhammara to tender kebabs, slow-cooked lamb, and indulgent sweets like nammoura and maamoul. It’s a feast that captures the rich flavors of Syria in an elegant buffet setting, complete with live stations, aromatic grills, and warm Arabic hospitality.
Local tip: Arrive early and ask for a seat by the open kitchen—you’ll catch the action up close and maybe even a tip from Chef Hekmat himself.
Gastronomic Voyage at GTR – Grand Trunk Road
Looking for a dining experience that tells a story? Step into GTR – Grand Trunk Road, Shaza Doha’s specialty restaurant inspired by the legendary trade route of South Asia.
The Grand Trunk Road—one of the oldest and longest roads in the region—spans from Bengal through North India into Pakistan and up to Afghanistan. At GTR, that historical journey unfolds on your plate.
Each dish on the menu is a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the cities along this road—from fiery tandoors of Peshawar and Lucknow’s slow-cooked kebabs to fragrant biryanis and bold curries of Delhi. Designed to reflect the depth, diversity, and soul of this route, the GTR experience is both nostalgic and adventurous.
Concierge insight: GTR is the perfect dinner spot after a museum visit or Souq Waqif stroll. Don’t leave without trying the ” KANDHARI NAAN” or the “BUTTER CHICKEN “—they’re guest favorites for a reason.
Local Favorites Around Shaza Doha
Besides our signature dining experiences, here are a few more insider picks from our concierge desk:
Souq Waqif (7-min walk): Best visited at sunset for traditional Qatari shopping, fresh juice, and shisha cafés.
Msheireb Museums: A cultural must-see, with a modern look into Doha’s heritage and development.
Box Park Doha: A quirky urban space made from shipping containers—great for food trucks and photos.
Katara Cultural Village: For concerts, art exhibitions, and a feel of old-meets-new Arabia.
Desert Safari to Inland Sea: Ask our concierge to arrange a private trip—it’s a surreal experience just an hour away.
The Shaza Doha Difference
Whether you’re visiting Doha for the first time or returning to discover something new, Shaza Doha is more than a luxury hotel—it’s your gateway to authentic experiences.
Our commitment to art, culture, and heartfelt service ensures that every moment, from check-in to your last bite of baklava, feels thoughtful and elevated. And through curated culinary nights, personalized service, and local insights, we’re proud to help you experience the real Doha—just like a local.