Indulging in the world’s best gastronomic delights

WHETHER you’re a fast food fan or a more discerning diner, the Qatar International Food Festival caters to every taste. The festival has been running for nine years, with the latest edition taking place over an 11-day period in the picturesque and aptly named Hotel Park of the Sheraton Grand Doha, an iconic landmark on the skyline of Qatar’s capital city.

With the park sandwiched between the glittering downtown West Bay business district and the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, and the evening temperatures hovering around a toasty 27 degrees, the conditions are perfect for a few hours of feasting.

Not that the festival need only be about eating. Billing itself as a“true celebration of the finest food and the most appetising events in the company of some of the world’s best gastronomic maestros”, visitors are able to enjoy live cooking demonstrations, free open-air concerts and movies, and kids’ activities.

The event is Qatar’s second country-themed offering of the year, following on from Shop Qatar, which was a national shopping festival. Emphasis is placed on family-friendly activities to allow everyone to enjoy it.

The Bawa brood, however, won’t be playing in the park. They’re safely tucked into bed. I need to focus on the food, you understand, and enjoy a dinner without distractions.

There’ll be no sudden bathroom dashes – unless I overeat, which is highly possible given the smorgasbord of culinary delights on offer.

“Right, let’s find Nando’s and Ocean Basket”, I tell Shihaam as we enter the 80 000m2 park grounds, having heard that the South African franchises have a presence at the festival.

The look my wife shoots me could flame-grill a chicken. “There are 177 stalls and food trucks here. We have a chance to try cuisine from all around the world. Let’s take advantage of the opportunity to pamper our palates.”

“Okay, okay,” I grudgingly agree. “But I don’t think you’re being peri patriotic.”

Before I get an order to go, I suggest we start with Nobu. The Japanese eatery can be found in Cape Town, but has its largest restaurant in Doha and has set up shop at the festival. The fare is delicious and the portions manageable, which helps.

We have to remember to sample and move on rather than fill up at the first station.

A delicious few bite-sized burgers and creamy garlic prawns later, Shihaam decides to try some koshari – an Egyptian dish – while I opt for sushi. At which point we realise we’re well and truly stuffed.

“On the way out, I think I’ll grab a quarter chicken and chips. You know, when it comes to me and food, the thigh’s the limit…”