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Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar, has garnered a reputation as one of the leading airports globally. Providing travelers with an expansive array of amenities, it features an impressive 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden known as “the Orchard,” a vast art collection, and a diverse selection of dining experiences.
In 2023, over 45 million passengers traveled through this architectural masterpiece, taking advantage of various airlines, including Qatar Airways and other regional and international carriers. The recent expansion, which included the Orchard, enhances the airport’s 65 retail and dining options, providing a wealth of activities for transit passengers. Despite its size, the airport is easy to navigate thanks to its single-terminal design, supplemented by an internal train for convenient travel to distant gates. A unique feature, the Lamp Bear, a striking 23-foot-tall bronze teddy bear, serves as an iconic guidepost inside the terminal.
For those looking for the best dining options, HIA offers a comprehensive food guide designed to help travelers discover excellent spots for quick snacks or full meals during longer layovers. For additional insights, consider reading guides on dining options at Istanbul Airport and Singapore Changi Airport.
Lounge life
Premium travelers on Qatar Airways have the privilege of accessing the airline’s award-winning lounges. The Al Safwa Lounge, exclusive to first-class passengers, represents the epitome of luxury with its tranquil, cavernous atmosphere. Here, guests can indulge in a restaurant-style dining experience featuring gourmet offerings such as Champagne, poached lobster, sushi, and breakfast delicacies like eggs Benedict.
Business class travelers can enjoy the Al Mourjan South Lounge, which features a relaxed café vibe with freshly prepared sandwiches, a buffet of international cuisines, and an á la carte restaurant located on the upper level. If you find yourself at a distant gate, the lush Al Mourjan The Garden lounge is worth the trip as well, offering a sushi bar, a patisserie reminiscent of Paris, and a diverse buffet. The Louis Vuitton Lounge within the complex also serves Arabic coffee and luxurious desserts.
Local flavor
Even if your stay in Doha is brief, you can savor the distinct flavors of Qatari cuisine at HIA. Baladna Express offers a taste of local favorites, including freshly carved shawarma that showcases spiced chicken enveloped in soft bread, complemented by pickles and garlic sauce, with several ingredients sourced from local farms.
Along Concourse C, Evergreen Organics represents Qatar’s first plant-based café, featuring energizing options such as cold-pressed juices and delicious avocado toast. For those journeying to the North Node of the airport, a visit to Chapati and Karak is a must. This local establishment is famed for its sweet, spiced Karak tea, which pairs excellently with freshly made chapati garnished with cream cheese and crispy potatoes or a touch of hazelnut spread.
Gifts to go
Travelers can also bring a piece of Qatar home with them by visiting Dukkan, located in the Souq Al Matar—a space designed to mimic a traditional Qatari market. Here, you can find beloved snacks like Pafki chips and a variety of fruit gums. Nearby, Fwala offers a selection of traditional sweets, including nutty halwa and a range of dates and spices, ideal for travel gifts.
Luxury indulgences
Although you may not be visiting London, a taste of British culture awaits at the Harrod’s Tea Room, situated just left of the Lamp Bear. This upscale dining experience features classic afternoon tea with scones, sandwiches, and a range of curated teas from Harrods’ own “Tea Tailor.” An expansive breakfast menu is also available from 4 a.m. to 11 a.m., featuring a variety of egg dishes and pastries.
The Fendi Café, located in the Orchard area, delivers a stylish environment where guests can enjoy cappuccinos adorned with the Fendi logo and a variety of cakes and pastries.
For something more substantial, Eat Greek (Kouzina) is another excellent option in the Orchard. Its bright interior offers dishes such as kleftiko—a slow-braised lamb shank served with chickpeas—and a refreshing Ionian salad featuring a mix of grape tomatoes and traditional Greek cheeses.
Plane food
For travelers in a hurry, the airport boasts numerous takeout options. Iconic Danish brand Joe and the Juice offers grab-and-go selections like their signature Tunacado in vibrant pink packaging. Similarly, Ralph’s Coffee provides a chic stop for coffee and sweet treats, along with convenient packs of roasted beans for those wishing to take a taste of their experience home with them.
Source
www.cntraveler.com