Whether you're craving elevated Thai cuisine, modern takes on Chinese classics or innovative fusion fare, Doha has it all. The city's cosmopolitan culinary landscape is quickly becoming one of the most diverse and exciting in the region. From world-renowned chefs to acclaimed international restaurant groups, Doha is an underrated gem for gourmands seeking exceptional eats and visiting here is even more accessible via the world-class Qatar Airways for a comfortable journey.

Here are 15 of the finest dining destinations that are cultivating Qatar's blossoming food scene.

Saffron (Thai)

Indulge in an artistic array of Thai favourites like tom yum soup, fried rice, and braised green curry chicken at the luxurious Saffron. Set in the stunning Banyan Tree Hotel, this elegant restaurant offers upscale Thai fare paired with striking views of Doha's sparkling skyline through its soaring windows. The grand interior features vaulted gold-detailed ceilings for an opulent yet inviting ambience.

Hakkasan (Chinese)

Hakkasan brings its acclaimed modern Chinese cuisine to Doha's posh Al Gassar Resort. The sprawling space is subdivided by intricate dark wood lattices and panels for an intimate, Eastern-inspired vibe. Signature dishes like the crispy duck salad are menu mainstays, alongside specialities crafted just for this location. It's an exceptional spot for refined dim sum and innovative Cantonese cooking.

Morimoto (Japanese)

Watch the sushi masters at work at this sophisticated Japanese gem helmed by celebrated Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. The sleek Mondrian Doha setting pairs exquisitely with Morimoto's inventive nippon izakaya fare, spanning sushi to miso-glazed black cod. An evening here promises both culinary artistry and a postcard-worthy scene.

Nobu (Japanese)

World-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings his critically lauded Japanese fusion cuisine to Doha's spectacular Four Seasons with Nobu. More than just a restaurant, it's an architectural masterpiece conceived by David Rockwell with an entrance over a reflecting pool. The food matches the transcendent setting, from the cult-followed black cod to outstanding sashimi and robata grill specialities.

Nozomi (Japanese)

This chic, modern outpost of London's beloved Nozomi offers a melodious Japanese dining experience at the Marsa Malaz Kempinski on The Pearl. Revel in Nozomi's refined sushi, sashimi and robata fare while gazing at the gulf's azure waters. The lush green garden courtyard provides an idyllic perch for sipping sake or signature cocktails.

La Mar by Gastón Acurio (Latin)

The acclaimed Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio brings his innovative Latin American cuisine to Doha's InterContinental Beach. La Mar's vibrant, Japanese-inflected Nikkei fare spans ceviches to charcoal-grilled meats and seafood. The spacious dining room opens up to a beachfront terrace with stunning city and Gulf panoramas for the ultimate Peruvian feast.

La Bodega Negra (Latin)

Experience a sultry Mexican hacienda vibe at La Bodega Negra, tucked away in Doha's St. Regis resort. The chic space includes a lively lounge bar and plant-adorned terrace ideal for sipping smoky mezcal cocktails. Savour authentic tacos, enchiladas and cochinita pibil while taking in the south-of-the-border soundtrack and energetic ambience.

COYA (Latin)

Peruvian cuisine meets global flavours at COYA's colourful and contemporary dining room in the W Doha. Beyond ceviches, plates blend Japanese, Chinese, Spanish and indigenous cooking techniques for vibrant, shareables like tacos, tiraditos and slow-cooked cazuelas. A pisco bar shakes up sophisticated sips to complement the dynamic Incan-inspired setting.

Market by Jean-Georges (European)

Jean-Georges takes "home away from home" to luxurious new heights at his casual-chic Market. Set in the W Doha, it remixes French bistro fare and American comfort classics like truffle pizza and veal Milanese into elevated yet approachable fare. The airy, modern space with lush greenery invites groups to linger over bottles from the eclectic wine list.

BiBo (European)

Master Spanish chef Dani Garcia crafts Doha's most authentic tapas experience at BiBo. The bold Andalusian flavours shine through shareable plates like patatas bravas, creamy croquettes and charcuterie. They are designed around a hexagonal bar, and the stylish space channels an art nouveau brasserie with Moorish touches. It's quintessential Iberian conviviality.

IZU (European)

Take a culinary tour of coastal France at The Pearl's IZU. An indoor-outdoor ground-level cafe gives way to a refined second-story dining room serving crisp salads, quiches and delectable Provençal seafood like calamari à la niçoise. Bask in the St. Tropez-inspired charm over breakfast, lunch or a leisurely dinner.

LPM Restaurant & Bar (European)

LPM whisks diners away to the breezy, sun-dappled French Riviera on Al Maha Island. Bougainvillaea-draped terraces and wicker accents set the scene for the idyllic Mediterranean menu of delicacies like prawns à la plancha, lobster ravioli, and decadent chocolate soufflé. It's a Cote d'Azur haven for sumptuous seafood feasts.

Smat (Middle Eastern)

Let Smat be your gateway into Qatar's culinary heritage. This homegrown kitchen showcases an array of delectable Khaleeji and Qatari classics with a breathtaking view overlooking the Doha Corniche. Settle into the relaxed yet refined space for an immersive introduction to traditional flavours like baked fish with turmeric rice and luqaimat sweet dumplings.

Parisa (Middle Eastern)

Dine like Persian royalty amidst the opulent, mosaic-clad interiors of Parisa in Souq Waqif. Alcoves are painted with inspiring murals depicting ancient folklore to complement the authentic saffron-laced stews, grilled kebabs and herbed rice dishes. Follow your feast with a shisha al fresco on the serene terrace surrounded by winding alleyways.

Shirvan Métisse (Middle Eastern)

James Beard Award-winning chef Akrame Benallal draws inspiration from global cuisines of the Silk Road for his remarkable North African-inflected fare at Shirvan Métisse. Expect imaginative dishes like black hummus alongside classics like lobster pastilla pie. The sophisticated setting offers sweeping views of The Pearl's marina.

Doha has firmly established itself as a world-class dining destination, with an impressive array of top-notch restaurants helmed by renowned chefs from around the globe. From exquisite Japanese omakase to bold Spanish tapas, and authentic Peruvian flavours to exceptional Indian thalis, the city's culinary scene celebrates a diverse range of cuisines at the highest level. With breathtaking views, impeccable service, and an insatiable appetite for what's new and noteworthy, Doha continues to elevate its standing as a gastronome's delight in the heart of the Gulf.