FACT Qatar February 2024 by Fact ME

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FEBRUARY 2024 VOL 10. ISSUE 08. QR15

Exquisite Italian Fine Dining Roberto’s Doha has been nominated for Fact Dining Awards Qatar in the Theme Nights, Italian Fine Dining, and Night Out categories. Delight in our latest ‘Il Pranzetto’ lunch menu for an authentic taste of Italian excellence.

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Delightfully Delicious

Love Is All Around!

It’s A Bling Thing

CONTENTS

62 92 108

Entertainment Under The Stars

Fact Dining Awards Nominations

Walking In Rhythm

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• THE EDITOR

All You Need Is Love

“

"Where there is love there is life." Mahatma Gandhi

es, I know we should all be nice to each other all year long. But having a special time of year dedicated to love does help concentrate the mind somewhat. If you’re looking for ways to make someone feel special, our Love Issue has you covered with loads of options for seriously romantic dining – I’d love

to hear where you’re celebrating. We’ve also got some great date ideas and presents that will certainly earn you Brownie points, even if your relationship is in the very early stages. February also means it’s time for Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) – the perfect place to find magical gifts for the object of your affections. Check our DJWE feature if you need some inspiration. We continue the romance theme in our travel pages. Head to the slopes and chill out together – I wish I could come too. Elsewhere in the mag, we’re gearing up for the much-anticipated Fact Dining Awards Qatar 2024 and you’ll find a full list of nominees in our pages – make sure you go to our website factqatar.com and vote for your favourites. And, with the awards in mind, we’ve been busier than usual sampling the best of Qatar’s dining scene – read our thoughts in the review section. We also had an awesome test drive experience in the BYD HAN, the chic new all-electric vehicle from the Chinese manufacturer. As always, we have a great roundup of news and events from around the city as well as snippets from the worlds of tech, fashion and entertainment. Hope you enjoy this month’s mag. Lots of love

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director editorial@fact-magazine.com

FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • FEBRUARY 2024 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 08

PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LIZ O’REILLY STAFF WRITER LAWSON MISQUITTA DIGITAL EDITORS NIDHI SHARMA SARA WADDAH SALES TEAM ANUSH MKRTUMIAN DANA BAIZAKOVA ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY HADY SAMAHA PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ CONTRIBUTORS AMS LAURA MORRIS SANAA CHOUDRY

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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Experience

the GRANDEST

of ROMANCE WEDNESDAY, 14TH OF FEBRUARY

PROVOK MASQUERADE ROMANCE AT PROVOK Starting from QAR 450 per person A TALE OF LOVE & FIRE AT PROVOK

Starting from QAR 500 per couple

DOME L'AMOUR UNDER THE STARS AT DOME Starting from QAR 300 per person PRIVATE COCOONS Starting from QAR 400 per person ETERNAL LOVE TEA SOIRÉE Starting from QAR 325 per person

MASALA LIBRARY SAVOUR LOVE AT MASALA LIBRARY Starting from QAR 575 per couple

For inquiries, please call +974 4030 7200 or email dining.doha@fairmont.com Fairmont Doha, Marina District Lusail City, 6th street, Lusail, Doha, Qatar fact magazine

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“

"You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams." Dr Suess

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• FACT FINDS

KEEP ON RUNNING The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2024 is expected to be the biggest event of its kind in the city and offers some spectacular prizes.

ore than 10,000 runners are set to take part in the exhilarating race which has categories to suit all. Ooredoo, a key supporter of national sporting excellence, has partnered with UK-based sports agency GW Active to ensure it meets stringent international standards, further upgrading the profile of the sporting event. The company revealed that this year the Doha Marathon holds World Athletics Gold status on the international schedule – it permits participating runners to qualify for international events such as the Boston Marathon. With a total of six race categories, the event has been designed to be inclusive, catering to all ages and abilities – from the full marathon to junior and kids’ races. Moreover, competitors with disabilities have been enthusiastically encouraged to join, making the marathon a true representation of inclusivity and community spirit. The race timings are as follows – the main marathon kicks off at 6.15am, the half marathon at 7.30am, the 10km at 8.30am and the 5km at 9.10am. There will also be a mini-marathon event for juniors aged 13 to 17 which will take place over 5km at 9.10am and also a 1-km race for children under the age of 13 at 10.30am. This year’s event features an exciting Al ADAAM category in 8

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partnership with the Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM), bestowing special awards to encourage local athletes. Two new Volkswagen cars will also be given away as prizes, with all participants who finish their race being entered into a raffle. One of two cars will be allocated to the “Al ADAAM” category. The race will begin and conclude at Hotel Park, providing a scenic route along the picturesque Corniche and offering a more enjoyable, safer and upgraded experience for both runners and spectators. Moreover, ‘The Race Village’ at Hotel Park will be open for five-days starting on February 12, ahead of Qatar National Sports Day. Additionally, the event will also witness the return of brand ambassador and Olympic high jump champion, Mutaz Barshim, alongside an elite field of athletes vying for glory at the full marathon. Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Director of PR, Sponsorships, and CSR at Ooredoo Qatar, said: “The overwhelming participation across all categories underscores the event’s appeal not just to elite athletes but to our entire community embracing active lifestyles.” ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.DOHAMARATHONOOREDOO.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• FACT RECOMMENDS

DARE TO BE SINGLE It’s officially the month of love but, if you’re not feeling it, Dare To Be Single runs at STK at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha on February 14. Those who are flying solo can get into the party vibes and indulge in a five-course set menu with two drinks for QR285 per person. Head down and embrace the freedom of singledom. You never know, you might just meet your new best friend.✤

GO: CALL 4484 8588 OR 6655 2429 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

COOK UP A STORM If you’re a fan of sushi, why not head to Nobu and learn how to make it from the experts? With classes running on the first Saturday of each month, attendees will discover the secret of restaurant-quality sushi with Nobu’s sushi masters and witness firsthand the passion and skills in each sushi creation. Classes run from 3pm to 4pm and cost QR400 per person, with limited seats available. Or if you fancy treating yourself, or a special someone, book a special private class for QR2,000, available daily except Sunday and Friday.✤

GO: CALL 4494 8600 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

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LAUGH OUT LOUD Emmy-award-winning Canadian stand-up comedian, actor and producer Russell Peters is headed to Qatar for a night of laughter. Effortlessly and hilariously blending Indo-Canadian cultural insights with observational anecdotes and sharp wit, Peters has been performing for more than 30 years and never fails to deliver a sidesplitting show. If you want to get in the mood for his visit, you can find him on Netlix, where he was the first comedian to get a stand-up special. He’ll be appearing at Qatar National Convention Centre on February 17 and tickets start from QR225. ✤

GO: VISIT VIRGINMEGASTORE.ME/QA TO BOOK YOUR PLACE.

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• LISTEN UP

DELIGHTFULLY DELICIOUS! Foodies are in for a treat with the return of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF). Now in its 13th year, the latest edition is set to be held over 11 days in the Family Zone at Doha Expo 2023, Al Bidda Park, from February 7 to 17. And 2024’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever with more than 100 food stalls including some from a selection of Qatar’s favourite restaurants. Visitors can expect a whole range of activities from live cooking shows, featuring world-class local, regional and international chefs, to masterclasses and cooking contests, interactive workshops, a cooking theatre, live entertainment and loads for the family to do. There’ll also be daily fireworks and, for the adventurous, a chance to experience dinner in the sky – where you’ll be served five-star cuisine while strapped firmly into a dining pod 40 metres in the air! This year’s festival honours the Qatar-Moroccan 2024 Year of Culture, so there is sure to be some great Moroccan cuisine on offer too. Brought to you by Qatar Tourism, this world-class feast for 12

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the taste buds gathers the biggest names in hospitality and serves up unique culinary experiences, from the latest food trends and local delicacies to spicy street food and haute cuisine. Commenting on the festival, Sheikha Hessa Al Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to launch a spectacular campaign announcing hosting once again the popular Qatar International Food Festival, this time at Doha Expo 2023. With Qatar’s world-class hospitality and tourism, we welcome residents and visitors to enjoy a pleasant culinary feast at QIFF.” Vendors looking to register for kiosks for QIFF 2024 can do so at: https://www.qatartourism.com/en/businessevents/calendar-of-business-events/qatar-internationalfood-festival. ✤

GO: Visit www.visitqatar.qa for further information.

DINE UNDER THE STARS AT AQUA URBAN DECK Starting from QAR 700 per person ROMEO & JULIET AFFAIR AT ALBA BY ENRICO CRIPPA Starting from QAR 490 per person THE GREAT GATSBY MASQUERADE AT ACOUSTIC Starting from QAR 375 per person MICHELIN STAR DINNER AT L'ARTISAN Starting from QAR 350 per person

For reservations, please call +974 4030 7100 or email dining.doha@raﬄes.com Raﬄes Doha, Marina District, PO BOX 4747, Lusail, Doha, Qatar

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• LISTEN UP

UNPARALLELLED HOSPITALITY The highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay has officially opened its doors. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts announced its latest opening in Doha and the new property’s façade and main entrance are reminiscent of the original Waldorf Astoria in New York – a nod to the brand’s rich heritage and legacy. The 44-storey property features 283 rooms and suites, as well as 50 luxury apartments – all of which offer a distinct art deco style. And each guest will be assigned a personal concierge. Paying homage to the history of grand clocks at Waldorf Astoria properties around the world, the central feature of the lobby is a striking clock created by Tiffany & Co. Handcrafted in Switzerland, it celebrates the falcon, Qatar’s national bird, with a bezel inspired by the tips of a falcon’s feathers. The property offers diverse dining venues, including Peacock Alley, serving the brand’s signature Afternoon Tea; Ledoux, a Parisienne patisserie where you’ll find bespoke pastries and cakes; and Al Fayrouz Terrace to enjoy Levantine cuisine and hookah. For a gourmet food hall experience, Tribeca Market serves New York-inspired classics and delicacies. The Waldorf Astoria Spa, spanning the 39th to 43rd floors, offers guests a unique range of wellness experiences with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Bespoke features include salt inhalation relaxation and hydrotherapy pools, thermal experiences including a sensory rain walk, a salon, relaxation zones with private Alpha sphere experiences and 14

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treatment suites that embrace holistic wellness offerings. Guests can also take a dip in the 26-metre, marble-tiled, indoor pool or unwind at the spa’s separate male and female pools with heated relaxation loungers. The new hotel features elegant event facilities that provide the ideal setting for every type of occasion – including two ballrooms which can each host up to 500 guests. There are also two boardrooms and three multi-functional meeting rooms with access to an outdoor patio. Ideally located close to the city centre and key attractions, the Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay epitomises modern luxury, boasting elegant furnishings, a range of dining options, a four-floor wellness experience and personalised service. Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa at parent company Hilton, said: “Qatar is seeing strong growth in international travel, welcoming more than four million visitors in 2023 – and we are delighted to be expanding our presence in the country with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay.” ✤

GO: CALL 4008 9000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

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• LISTEN UP

IMPACTFUL ART Nigerian-American artist’s message at GU-Q event spotlighted interconnections between energy, culture and society. Nigerian-American visual artist and writer Victor Ehikhamenor’s artwork was recently featured in Georgetown University Qatar’s (GU-Q) carefully curated art collection for its Global Energy Cultures Hiwaraat forum. Celebrated for his perceptive and vivid pieces with strong links to his cultural background – the international African diaspora and the postcolonial politics of Nigeria – Victor’s artworks earned him the position of GU-Q’s first artist-in-residence. Safwan M. Masri, Dean of GU-Q, commented: “GU-Q’s selection of Ehikhamenor is a wise one, for he shares this opinion on connecting academia with art.” Throughout his journey, Victor’s passion for arts grew alongside his interest in environmental issues as evidenced by his involvement in the Energy Humanities Research Initiative at the Center for International and Regional Studies (CIRS), which strives to encourage original scholarly discussions on the significance of energy in daily life. He was one of the three artists who represented his home country, Nigeria, at the first Pavilion at the 57th Venice Biennale in 2017. His work has been showcased at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, UK, and the Lehmann Maupin Gallery in New York, USA. Victor’s views are reflected in his artwork, which provides a political account of African life, examining the continent’s position within international relations while advocating against Nigerian political riots and in favour of good governance. His piece, ‘For Those Who Slept in the Dark with Identifiable 16

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Ghosts’, was created for GU-Q’s forum in a temporary art studio on campus, where university affiliates had the chance to visit and engage with the artist during his open hours. Despite facing time restrictions in the completion of his piece, he still managed to immerse and integrate himself in the environment by observing the community and local museums of Qatar. His work is currently on display in the Company House foyer in Msheireb Museums, consisting of charcoal, graphite and acrylic on tent canvas, sustainable materials which aid in critiquing the present vulnerability of the environment. Speaking on his experience he said: “It is that human touch, that community, that coming together, that ties the things together.” Victor believes that energy is not only connected to geopolitics, economics, and science, but is also intrinsic with human identity. Speaking at the forum he said: “The Global South should not be bullied by the Global North; they are mostly responsible for polluting the world. The Global South now carries the burden of the West, but this should not detract from our attention towards drought and other major environmental issues.” ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://HIWARAAT.QATAR.GEORGETOWN.EDU/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

BRINGING BUSINESS PARTNERS TOGETHER

In another first for the country and the region, Qatar is to host one of the world’s biggest technology conferences. Web Summit Qatar will attract big-name speakers from the worlds of tech, industry and business to an event that aims to connect a new generation of founders and startups in the Middle East to investors, journalists, customers, partners and more around the world, and represents an opportunity to develop an already fast-growing tech scene in the region. Taking place at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center from February 26 to 29, the event is expected to attract around 12,000 attendees alongside more than 300 investors and 800 startups. Speakers already confirmed include HH Princess Loulwa Al Saud, co-founder and CEO of RiseUp Saudi; comedian, author and presenter Trevor Noah; astronaut Sara Sabry, who is founder and CEO of Deep Space Initiative; professional footballer and investor Patrice Evra; Blake Chandlee, President Global Business Solutions Tik Tok; Ayo Tometi, entrepreneur and co-creator Black Lives Matter; Ali Alwaleed Al Thani, CEO Invest Qatar; Robert Kyncl, CEO Warner Music Group; race driver Christine GZ and a huge cast of other big names. As well as the incredible lineup of speakers eager to 18

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share expertise, there will be unparalleled networking opportunities with entrepreneurs and proprietary software that maximises the attendees’ experience. In the current global climate, upskilling has never been more important. Web Summit Qatar’s educational stage talks, informative masterclasses and innovative roundtables enable attendees to expand their professional skillsets and bring valuable information back to the office. As Inc. Magazine put it, Web Summit events “facilitate content that inspires and empowers attendees”. Addressing an earlier event, Katherine Maher, former CEO of Web Summit, said: “I know the incredible opportunity to bring in people not just from the Arabic-speaking world but also South Asia and Africa. I’m just hugely excited about that.” She added that the summit’s collaborative nature creates a space where startups can gain access to mature establishments in various fields, including energy, aviation, media and telecommunications. ✤

GO: VISIT QATAR.WEBSUMMIT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

CMY

Celebrate Love Embark on a romantic journey this V-Day at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. Celebrate the essence of togetherness on this special day with your loved ones. For more information and bookings, please contact: +974 3359 8514 dining.doha@westin.com THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Salwa Road, Fereej Bin Mahmoud, Zone 23, Po Box 39474, Doha, Qatar

Scan to Learn More

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• COVER STORY

LOVE IS ALL AROUND! The month of love is finally here and we're oh so excited! Our V-Day cover story features your very own love stories as well as ideas for quirky gifts, great dates and all the best in romantic dining offers. Sit back, relax and enjoy the read...

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• COVER STORY

GREAT DATES Whether you’re part of a long-established couple or just setting out on your romantic journey, this is the time of year to pay extra attention to your partner by coming up with novel ways to spend time together. Stumped for ideas? Don’t worry, we’ve got you cover with our top five favourite date options.

Reach For The Stars

Break The Ice Trying something like ice skating, that makes most of us look slightly silly, is an ideal way to break the ice on a first date, unless of course you’re an old hand, in which case, use the opportunity to show off your skills. If you’re more like Bambi on ice, it’s a great excuse to grab your partner’s hand. After all, who could blame you if you’re trying your best to stay upright. Try it at Gondolania Ice Arena on Al Waab Street, near Aspire Park, which is an Olympic sized skating arena that’s accredited by the Ice Skating Institute Asia (ISIAsia). It’s open daily with public sessions costing just QR55 per person. GO: Call 4403 9800 (Gondolania) or 7070 0090 (Meya Sports).

There can be few things more romantic than staring up at a starfilled sky out in the desert, well away from the city’s lights. Khor Al Adaid is a secret treasure that offers a breathtakingly beautiful experience to watch the stars. Go with 365 Adventures and take a tour through the Singing Sand Dunes of Mesaieed as well. Priced from around QR195. GOT: Call 3339 3323 for more information.

Use Your Illusion For a date with a difference, we recommend the Museum of Illusions – where else can you take a picture of your partner’s head on a plate? You certainly won’t be short of things to talk about with optical illusions, visual tricks and interactive displays creating an environment that’s great for visitors of all ages. Whether it’s a first date or somewhere to spark conversation for lifelong partners, this could be the perfect place. GO: Visit museumofillusions.qa for more information.

Play The Tourist

Fright Night

Find out just how much you and your date know, or don’t, about the city with a Doha Sightseeing Cruise on board an Arabic dhow. Take in all the sights of the city’s futuristic skyline and enjoy the romance of being on the water at sunset. The cruise costs around QR200 and takes in Box Park, Mina Hotel, Sheraton Hotel, Katara Cultural Village, Pearl Qatar, Safliya Island and more. GO: Visit getyourguide.com for more information.

There’s nothing like a bit of abject terror to bring you together – let’s face it, when riding a scary roller coaster, even total strangers become our friends, united in the imagined possibility of imminent demise. To guarantee hand holding at least, head to Doha Quest where you’ll find the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster. Entry costs QR235 for a day ticket. GO: Visit dohaquest.com for more information.

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Experience

The Luxury of Golfing

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• COVER STORY

HOW WE MET… Love is in the air and this month we wanted to share the joy by bringing your romantic tales to life. Here are some of your sweet and wonderful stories that had our hearts aflutter.

Fathima Mehnaz and Ummer Sadique Our love story began in the halls of a school where a charismatic teacher sparked a connection. Despite teaching for only three months [on a placement], he left a lasting impression on me. The unexpected twist came when, on his departure, he confessed his love! I was only 16 but, undeterred, he embarked on a journey to Qatar for a promising future, intending to seek my hand in marriage. Four years of patient waiting ensued. He maintained contact with my father, expressing his sincere intentions and, when the time was right, he approached my father again, seeking permission to marry me. Though initially hesitant, my father observed the unwavering commitment and granted his approval. In 2019, after years of persistence, my dream turned into reality as we got engaged. We sealed our love in 2020 through marriage. Now, with a baby girl, our fairy tale is a testament to perseverance and the belief that dreams do come true. Never giving up, our love story is a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream! Jezriel Ruth Lim Roxas and Ronnie Dela Cruz Roxas On my first day at work, I had to attend an orientation at our main office building. So, I wrote my name and the branch store I was assigned to in the logbook at the reception area. He (my future husband) was there to attend a training session. He looked at the logbook and saw my name and store. He was curious, so he asked one of his teammates who I was. She explained that I was new. He approached me and asked if that was my name written there. I was puzzled because I didn’t know him at all. Then I figured out that he saw my name in the logbook. He explained that he used to work at the branch that I was to work at and that he was just temporarily helping out in another branch. Fate did, eventually, bring us together in one branch, and that’s where our friendship turned to love and grew. Just so you know, this store has more than 50 branches and we still managed to find each other. M. Ali Abdullah and S. Ali My love story is a bit weird but an interesting one. I met my now husband at a blood donation event and it wasn’t a one-time thing. Whenever there was any blood donation event in the city, we would both go and bump into each other. This happened on several occasions. Then one fine day, when he saw me at a donation camp, he approached and told me “I believe we share the same passion of saving lives let’s connect”. Oh, I was impressed! Saving lives morphed into connecting lives for us. I’m forever grateful for this quirky, charismatic, life-saving man I’ve got, and I’m pretty sure he feels the same. Saving lives turned into our joint adventure and we’re still laughing about it. Life’s weird, but hey, so is love! Hahaha. 24

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• COVER STORY

PRESENTS WITH PRESENCE We all love nice surprises, right? It’s time to spoil your loved one but, truly, flowers and chocolates for the ladies and after shave for the guys are a bit passé. We’ve come up with some novel gift ideas sure to bring a smile to the face of both long-term partners and new love interests.

Sock It To ‘Em There’s nothing worse than cold feet. Make sure they’ll always think of you with warmth by gifting them socks bearing your very own lovely face – but that doesn’t mean you should let them walk all over you! There are loads online but we particularly like the colour of these. GO: Find them at etsy.com/listings/1543973395

You’re My Star If you want to make a lasting impression, why not name a star after the object of your affections. That way, whenever they gaze at the heavens, they’ll be reminded of you. The Online Star Registry allows you to do just that and there’s even an app where you can see your star as well as the option for a customised certificate. GO: Visit osr.org for more information.

Getting Serious If you want to show you care but just not too much, keep things light-hearted with this rather cool spoon. If in doubt, you can always say it was just a joke! GO: Find it at etsy.com/listing/1134228585 Heavenly Meetings Sticking with the star theme, what better way to commemorate your fateful first meeting than with an astronomically certified map of the heavens showing the position of the stars on your special day – you can even order it in a heart shape. Can’t remember when and were you met? Then use the details of another significant time in your relationship. GO: Visit underluckystars.com for more information.

Power of Positivity Sometimes our loved ones just need to know that we have faith in them, after all, love’s supposed to be about supporting each other when the chips are down. Get the message across with the Positive Potato - we absolutely adore this funny little guy, so if anyone’s looking for a gift idea for us, he’d be very welcome in the FACT office. GO: Find it at amazon.com 26

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• COVER STORY

THE FOOD OF LOVE With February being the time when we celebrate togetherness or, perhaps, try to catch the attention of someone special, what better way to mark the occasion than with a romantic meal or sweet offering? Wondering where to go? These venues have got you covered with numerous great offers – you’ll find more online at factqatar.com throughout the month.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL Benjarong Make your loved one feel extra special with a romantic dinner date at Benjarong. This year, they bring you an exclusive fourcourse Thai menu amidst the restaurant’s intimate setting with views of West Bay. Offer runs on February 14 from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR399 per couple including a bottle of grape. GO: Call 4004 4444 for more information or to make a booking.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL & SUITES Tropicana 360 Me, you and the view. What more could you ask for. How about a romantic night under the stars with a selection of delectable bites, a bottle of grape or bubbles and a charming heart-shaped dessert. Offer runs on February 14 from 7pm, priced QR499 per couple. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3082 0469 for more information or to make a booking.

FAIRMONT DOHA Provok Immerse yourself in an enchanting night filled with mystery and 28

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romance, where you can delight in the charm of a Masquerade dinner accompanied by live entertainment, including a DJ, an electric violinist and an entrancing magician. Select between the inviting atmosphere of the bar and lounge or the intimate setting of terrace tables. Indulge in the tastes of love with a curated menu of exquisite mixed drinks, paired with a bottle of sparkling grape and a signature sushi platter. Offer runs on February 14 from 5pm to 11pm, priced QR500 per couple including grape and sushi. GO: Call 4030 7200 for more information or to make a booking.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Makani Beach Club Show your affection with a very special experience. Treat your loved one to an intimate dinner by the beach with a delectable five-courses menu and bubbly to set the mood for the evening. Offer runs on February 14, priced QR2,500, including a bottle of grape or sparkling, at the beach or QR1,500 at Makani Beach Club. Advance payment required. GO: Call 4494 8600 for more information or to make a booking.

SPICE MARKET Savor the best of Southeast Asian cuisine and sushi in Doha. Nominated for: Best Family-Friendly Brunch Best Friday Brunch Best Pan-Asian

Vote now

W Doha Hotel & Residences West Bay, Zone 61, Building 262 4453 5135 7794 3975

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• COVER STORY

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

The Cellar Transport your taste buds to Spain for Celebra El Amore featuring a tantalising four-course Spanish set menu perfectly paired with a selection of exquisite Spanish grapes as well as a welcome drink and a rose. Offer runs on February 14, priced QR380 per couple with welcome drink and rose, pay QR120 per person or QR180 per couple for the grape pairing. GO: Call 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806 for more information or to make a booking.

Tulum Under the moonlight, let Tulum's ambiance elevate your celebration of love. Create cherished moments with an enchanting three-course set menu, accompanied by your choice of house red or white grape. Offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm, priced QR395 per couple including a bottle of house grape. GO: Call 4419 5110 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a booking.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

MONDRIAN DOHA

La Mar Beach Dine under the stars on vibrant and colourful dishes that are sure to tantalise the taste buds. Enjoy exclusive seating on your private deck (limited availability) while listening to the gentle sound of the waves. Offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm, priced QR 1,500 per couple for a four-course set menu, fruit platter and a bottle of bubbles. Additional Pairing Beverage Package available for QR450 per couple. GO: Call 4484 4919 for more information or to make a booking.

Morimoto Savour love’s embrace at Morimoto where each bite tells a tale of passion, every setting radiates romance and the art of Japanese cuisine creates an incredible connection. Offer runs on February 14, priced QR300 per person for a special set menu. GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a booking.

LE ROYAL MERIDIEN DOHA ADRIFT Anda Indulge in a symphony of flavors and romance at ADRIFT Anda with an exquisite four-course set menu crafted by the culinary genius Christhian Serraino. Elevate your love with each delightful dish, as they create a memorable evening filled with passion and delectable moments. Offer runs from 5pm to 10pm, priced QR420 per couple with a glass of bubbly. GO: Call 4141 6000 or WhatsApp 3100 3370 for more information or to make a booking.

LPM RESTAURANT & BAR DOHA The French Riviera-inspired restaurant group has introduced an exclusive dessert for the season of love, the Tarte Tropézienne à la Fleur d’Oranger. The limited-edition dessert is LPM’s contemporary take on one of the French Riviera’s most loved sweet delicacies, the Tarte Tropézienne, originally inspired by Brigitte Bardot. Developed in the 1950s, the Tarte Tropézienne quickly gained adoration after Brigitte Bardot discovered it whilst filming And God Created Woman in St Tropez, where Bardot herself named it. The special dessert will be available at LPM Restaurant & Bar outlets globally from February 14 to 29. GO: Call 4420 9888 for more information or to make a booking.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Aqua For an evening of romance, visit this refined rooftop oasis offering a sophisticated ambience and romantic setting with a specially curated four-course menu featuring oysters, sushi and sashimi and a choice of Black Angus tenderloin or pan-seared salmon. Offer runs on February 14, from 7pm to 11pm, priced QR300 per person with a Special Beverage Package priced QR130. GO: Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a booking. 30

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PARK HYATT DOHA Opus Celebrate a symphony of flavours at Opus’ Candlelight Dinner; a captivating journey for two, where every dish from the à la carte menu and the ambient glow of candles set the stage for a night of shared romance. Offer runs on February 14 and 15, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, priced QR299 per person with a welcome glass of bubbly. GO: Call 4009 4344 or 3158 7940 for more information or to make a booking.

RAFFLES DOHA Aqua Urban Deck Cherish timeless moments of love this Romance Season with an al fresco dining experience. The evening begins with a romantic mixed drink reception, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. Guests will then take their seats poolside with stunning views of the Doha skyline, where a delicious four-course menu awaits. Live entertainment adds a special touch to the romantic atmosphere. Offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 12am, priced QR700 per person, QR900 inclusive of grape pairing. GO: Call 4030 7100 for more information or to make a booking.

RIXOS GULF HOTEL DOHA Rixos Cabanas Among seven activations to celebrate the month of love, Cabana Culinaire: An Intimate Culinary Haven offers the chance for seclusion in one of the Rixos cabanas, where personalised service and a bespoke menu create an exclusive dining experience. Allow the evening to unfold in an atmosphere designed for romance and connection. Offer runs throughout February from 6pm to 12am, priced QR1,500 for two with a five-course set menu. Pay an extra QR150 per person for enhances beverages. GO: Call 4429 8666 for more information or to make a booking.

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• COVER STORY

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Beachside Escape to a haven of romance at this beachside retreat. Indulge in a special evening where the rhythm of the waves harmonises with the exquisite flavours on your plate. Your private gazebo awaits, adorned for a magical night under the stars. Offer runs on February 14 from 7pm, priced QR2,500. GO: Call 4485 3000 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA Sel et Miel Lock your sights on love and the prize could be a pair of redsoled shoes for the lady. Enjoy an exquisite four-course menu and try your luck for this fantastic prize. Offer runs on February 14, priced QR650 per couple for the Soft Package and QR750 for the Enhanced Package. GO: Call 5576 4278 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ST. REGIS MARSA ARABIA, THE PEARL – QATAR Babel This luxury Lebanese restaurant takes guests on a unique trip of taste, exploring inherited ingredients that reflect all the best that Lebanon has to offer. At Babel, food is a common language, bringing together, under one roof, sophisticated, authentic Lebanese recipes that were 32

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reimagined to offer a progressive cuisine. Their romantic dinner will include an enchanting performance from a pianist and a violinist from 9.30pm. Offer runs on February 14, priced QR220 per person for the Soft Package and QR370 for the Enhanced Package. GO: Call 4020 4420 or WhatsApp 3995 6255 for more information or to make a booking.

THE WESTIN HOTEL & SPA Hunters Room & Grill Indulge in a romantic journey this V-Day with an exclusive set menu. Elevate your celebration with a curated selection of delectable dishes. Offer runs on February 14 from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR450 for two guests, add a bottle of house grape for QR150 or a bottle of sparkling for QR190. GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a booking.

W DOHA La Spiga by Paper Moon Enjoy Amore a Venezia as romance is in the air with a Venetianinspired evening and specially crafted menu with a mesmerising performance by GD Angelo. Offer runs on February 14 from 5pm to 12am, priced QR495 per couple for the four-course menu and two glasses of bubbles. GO: Call 4453 5135 or WhatsApp 7794 3975 for more information or to make a booking.

Sweet Escape Indulge in the sweet allure of a romantic afternoon tea at Anis along with a relaxing couple massage at THE SPA

QAR 1250 per couple February 1 till the 15th 2024•1:00 PM-8:00 PM “Pre-booking is required” Call Us On 3158 7944

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• DJWE

IT’S A BLING THING More than 500 brands are expected to take part when the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) returns for its 20th edition this month.

unning from February 5 to 11 over 30,000sq/m at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, the event is expected to attract more than 30,000 visitors from 175 countries. This year sees the participation of the Indian and Turkish pavilions among the 10 countries taking part and there will be 10 exhibitors under the Qatari Designers Pavilion. A recent unveiling for the exhibition announced the ‘Big 8’ participants as AlFardan Jewellery, Al Majed Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Amiri Gems, Fifty One East, Al Muftah Jewellery, Blue Salon and Bulgari. And there are plenty of new brands taking part including: Key Gems, AlMajid Home, Renee Jewels, Naylah, Kooheji Jewellery and Hessa Jewels, by Qatari Designer Hessa, who started as part of the Qatari Designers Initiative. The event will feature the return of the Qatari Designers Initiative as well as a series of workshops with jewellery and watch

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experts. And Education Above All, a staple at the DJWE for many instalments, will be back with collaborations with Brazilian jeweller and designer Silvia Furmanovich and Qatari Designers. The exhibition has been promoted in a stunning campaign film featuring supermodel Irina Shayk and former professional footballer and current sports broadcaster, Thierry Henry, with an incredible original score from the Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan. And, adding to the star quality, special pieces debuting at DJWE 2024 include Tiffany & Co. 2024 Bird on a Pearl and bespoke piece the ‘High Jewellery’ necklace from Bulgari. A new range of ‘Qatar Limited Edition’ watches and new jewellery brands from AlMajed Jewellery and Blue Salon will also be on show. Hungry exhibition goers will even be treated to jewellery themed eats at a Boucheron Café, among other dining venues. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.DJWE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A Journey through Italy. From the vineyards of Veneto to the seafood-rich traditions of Liguria, our ever-evolving special monthly menus highlight the unique and authentic tastes of each region that will let your taste buds traverse the diverse landscapes of the Italian cuisine. Available daily, from 5pm to 10 pm. For more information or to reserve, please call +974 4141 6053 or WhatsApp +974 3100 3370.

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• DJWE

INSPIRED BY NATURE Van Cleef & Arpels will be showing stunning floral creations at this year’s exhibition. Inspired by the beauty and harmony of blossoms, the pieces showcase the virtuosity of the maison’s diamond craftsmanship, exhibiting some of the world’s most enchanting High Jewellery, jewellery and timepieces. Founded in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels has long drawn inspiration from nature and, in 1970, the Rose de Noël collection was launched – named for the unique, winter-blooming Christmas Rose. Originally in pink coral, yellow gold and diamonds, the pieces have since embraced joyful variations, moving with the times. The Fleurette collection motif features seven round diamonds forming a delicate corolla. the meeting of rose gold and diamonds creating a radiant harmony unfolding as a delicate flower. The collection includes a necklace with five motifs as well as the new Fleurette ring. The brilliant Frivole creations are crafted from white gold paved with diamonds. The five-flower bracelet embellishes the wrist with sparkling diamonds sitting in perfect harmony with the nine-flower necklace. The Between the Finger Ring presents a dialogue between three flowers in mirror-polished white gold and a diamond-paved flower invoking the exuberance of blooming nature in springtime.

GO: CALL VAN CLEEF & ARPELS BOUTIQUE, PLACE VENDÔME MALL, ON 4416 6662 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MINI WORKS OF ART Damiani brings order from chaos in the glittering Mimosa collection inspired by the flower of the same name. The historic Italian house is known for exclusive pieces that are entirely handmade using the highest quality gems and the finest stones. The Mimosa collection offers rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces and watches – each a miniature work of art featuring a mosaic of the purest stones set to resemble the namesake flower imparting a sense of apparent chaos. The pieces feature varied cuts and shapes arranged side by side, their voids and solids marrying to produce meticulous order from the seeming chaos in creations of magnificent lightness and elegance. The collection illustrates the forward-looking and progressive ethos of the century-old maison, whose legacy passed from founder Enrico Damiani to his son Damiano and then to the third generation, Guido, Silvia and Giorgio, who manage the company today and are responsible for interpreting the brand’s legendary heritage. Valued around the world for the style, design and all-Italian craftsmanship of its creations, Damiani enthusiasts are in good company with the brand’s pieces having been selected by the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Isabella Rossellini and Brad Pitt. 36

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GO: CALL BOUTIQUE DAMIANI ON 4473 3463 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

WEEKEND ESCAPE AT JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Experience elegance and unmatched comfort with our exclusive weekend staycation offer with exceptional dining experiences, free upgrades, and exclusive benefits at Quan Spa facilities, your stay will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Starting from: QAR 650 Room with breakfast for up to Two adults at Sridan Restaurant

Available on Thursday - Saturday *Prepayment required *Offer available until 31st December 2024 For reservations, please call (974) 4429 5000

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• DJWE

THE NEW AVENGERS Always at the forefront of airborne adventure, Breitling introduces the redesigned Avenger collection which was built for jet pilots. Over the years Breiling’s ties to the aviation industry have resulted in such renowned timepieces as the Navitimer, the AVI Co-Pilot and the Avenger – which has been reimagined in a new range coming in three formats – a 44mm chronograph, a 44mm automatic GMT and a 42mm automatic. Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 and Night Mission Providing around 70 hours of power, the driving force behind the new Avenger chronograph is the Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01. To reveal the movement’s precise mechanics, the chronos are equipped with an open sapphire-crystal caseback. With a rotating 60-minute stainless-steel bezel, core models have a coloured dial in either blue, green, black or sand. The chrono hand is tipped in eye-catching red and there are new square pushers, designed for the smoothest timekeeping operation. The Avenger Night Mission chronograph has a vibrant yellow or carbon black dial, the case and bezel are crafted from scratchresistant ceramic while the caseback, crown, pushers and buckle are solid titanium.

Avenger Automatic Gmt 44 With a 24-hour, rotating bezel, a red GMT hand provides at-aglance reading of Zulu time (GMT). The steel-cased Avenger Automatic GMT has the same diameter as the chrono and comes in a choice of black or naval-blue dials. Avenger Automatic 42 Made of steel and boasting a trimmer 42mm diameter, the Avenger Automatic offers a choice of black, naval-blue or camogreen dial, with the option of a matching military leather strap or three-row, stainless-steel bracelet. GO: CALL BLUE SALON ON 4446 6184 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

NIGHT WATCH Like shots in the dark, IWC Schaffhausen’s popular TOP GUN watch comes in matte black Ceratanium and Black Ceramic. Part of the Pilot’s Watches collection, the 41 TOP GUN Ceratanium is the first 41mm chronograph in the collection with a case, pushers and crown made in this ground-breaking material, which is light and robust like titanium and hard and scratch-resistant like ceramic. The most striking feature of Ceratanium is its matte-black colour, which IWC and Pantone have specified as ‘IWC Ceratanium’. The dark and slightly metallic shade results from a unique manufacturing process. Subdued white print and luminescence on the black dial and black hands underscore the stealthy, all-black design. The IWCmanufactured 69385 calibre chronograph movement is visible through the tinted sapphire glass caseback and the timepiece comes with a black rubber strap with textile inlay. The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 TOP GUN in black zirconium oxide ceramic (Ref. IW329801) is the first of its kind in a 43mm case. The model features a case made of black zirconium oxide ceramic and a titanium caseback, as well as black dial and hands. IWC and Pantone have specified the black ceramic colour as ‘IWC Jet Black’. The timepiece is powered by the IWCmanufactured 82100 caliber movement. The Pellaton winding system has been fitted 38

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with components made of virtually wear-free ceramic and builds up a power reserve of 60 hours. GO: CALL IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN BOUTIQUE ON 4008 0938 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• DJWE

HEALING FREQUENCIES With her latest collection, designer Nadine Barbey has drawn inspiration from an Egyptian queen and set out to create jewellery that transforms energy. Gemstones like desires have ‘frequencies’ that are intuitive and have powerful magnetic resonance. The story of NEFERTITI by Nadine Barbey, started with an earnest transformation through intuitively studying her own healing journey combined with her understanding of gemstones and her savoir faire in High Jewellery spanning 27 years of expertise in Paris. Nadine’s profound desire to create jewellery that is attuned aesthetically and technically, to carry another significance in transforming energy to a much higher resonant frequency for the wearer. NEFERTITI by Nadine Barbey integrates a myriad of elemental characteristics such as the refractive light resonance and colour, structure and pattern of the untreated gemstones which are sourced from regions that have a powerful magnetic resonance for men and women. Iranian turquoise and Afghani lapis lazuli of the highest quality and Sleeping Beauty turquoise (Arizona) carry a significant energetic frequency alone or combined with malachite, agate, carnelian, onyx, mother of pearl, azurite, crystal quartz, and ‘A’

grade diamonds, set into 18-carat gold, which carry an alluring warm leverage in gold to create product longevity. The combination of these elements creates a system of ‘Vibrational Frequencies’ that draws us intuitively to what we need in terms of frequency to re-align ourselves from a high vibrational point of view. Each crafted jewellery piece symbolises inner transformation. GO: VISIT WWW.ALIBINALI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

STARTING A CONVERSATION Roberto Coin’s Art Deco collection brings unique style for unique women. Art Deco is one of Roberto Coin’s most successful lines. Beyond being clearly inspired by the Art Deco artistic movement that developed in the 1920s and 30s, the design of the collection also evokes the so-called “conversational pieces” typical of the 1950s, pieces that inspired so much curiosity in those who saw them, that they started up a conversation. The collection’s ties to the artistic movement are evident in its design, made of geometric lines that are repeated with precision and symmetry. This rigor is interrupted and disrupted by fluid elements such as tassels and chains made of irregular little balls. This mix of severity and softness makes the pieces in the Art Deco collection something unusual in the world of fine jewellery, without taking away from its aura of exclusivity. Roberto Coin has dressed these pieces in the brand’s typical colours so that each design can convey a different style. Yellow and rose gold are the soul of every piece, decorated with mysterious black jade, delicate mother-of-pearl, intense lapis lazuli, malachite or joyful turquoise; the most opulent, haute couture version is covered in white diamonds. As Roberto Coin loves to reconfirm, for each unique woman, there’s a corresponding, equally unique style. 40

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GO: VISIT ALMAJEDGROUP.ME FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A TASTE OF ITALY IN THE HEART OF DOHA

From handcrafted pasta to savory pizzas and crisp salads, every dish is a journey to the heart of Italy. Unwind in a charming ambiance and savor the essence of true Italian flavors.

Hungry for more? DISCOVER THE HOTTEST HAPPENINGS Scan the QR Code

Experience authentic Italian bliss at Bice Ristorante - Pure delight, simply savored.

Al Shatt Street | P.O. Box 18181 - Doha, Qatar

+974 4009 4066

+974 3301 3666

restaurants.pullmandoha@accor.com

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@bicebypullmandoha

• REGIONAL RIDES

CHARGING AHEAD FACT had the opportunity to get behind the wheel and test the ins and outs of the 2024 all-electric BYD HAN, a premium electric saloon with impressive high-end features. 42

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REGIONAL RIDES •

he Global automotive brand, BYD, has been steadily growing from strength to strength and, over the years, has successfully pivoted from combustion vehicles to battery electric models and plug-in hybrids. BYD achieved a major production milestone by being the first auto manufacturer globally to roll out six million electric vehicles. It has also gone on to become the leader in electric vehicle sales after a massively successful 2023. Among BYD’s notable offerings is its flagship electric saloon, the BYD HAN BEV (battery electric vehicle). The model gets its name from the illustrious Han Dynasty, whose reign is renowned as being a Golden Age in Chinese history. With such an impressive introduction, we were only too thrilled when we got the chant to put the BYD HAN through its paces.

Dynamic Exterior Design As we set our sights on the vehicle, we were immediately impressed by the striking outline of the HAN. Aimed towards the premium luxury saloon market, the model has been expertly designed by the renowned German car designer Wolfgang Egger and his world-class team – and it shows! Inspired by the Chinese dragon, the new BYD HAN exudes a sporty attitude, with stylish aesthetics from the Orient. At the front, the impressive LED headlights, which BYD refers to as ‘streamers’, have a futuristic feel and create a dramatic blend of technology and beauty. The sides effectively accentuate

the model’s elegant lines and the concealed door handles gracefully extend, when needed. The car boasts a confident appearance as it sits imposingly on 19-inch alloy wheels. Moving to the rear, the sleek body contours are punctuated by a sporty, sloped back and the unique ‘Dragon Claw’ full width LED rear combination light bar creates an eye-catching and highly recognisable statement.

Luxurious Interior Stepping into the car, it didn’t take us long to notice that the excellent exterior is perfectly complemented by a luxurious interior crafted with exceptional materials to bring an air of sophistication to the space. Upholstered in premium Nappa leather, we found the ventilated seats ultra-comfortable. The driver’s seat and the front passenger seat offer convenient eight- and six-way electric adjustment, respectively, with poweroperated four-way lumbar support available for both. The refined appearance is further elevated with ambient lighting, darker wooden trims and aluminium accents. Additionally, we found the sleek gear selector to be aptly functional, with physical buttons for switching between driving modes and a visually pleasing design. Space wise, there’s ample head, shoulder and leg room for all passengers. The panoramic sunroof invites natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere in the cabin, while the luggage compartment, with a storage capacity of 410 litres, can house a couple of suitcases with ease. fact magazine

• REGIONAL RIDES

High-End Infotainment & Technology The car’s infotainment system is clean and minimal in design. For the driver, there is a five-inch instrument display and a head-up display projector on the windshield that helps maintain focus on the road. But what truly caught our eye was the central 15.6-inch multimedia touchscreen that can be rotated for use in portrait or landscape mode. Well designed and easy to navigate, using it while driving around was an easy and pleasant experience. A wireless charging pad and USB ports allow convenient smartphone charging while on the move. The vehicle is further set up with a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system that provides immersive sound quality and clarity that we truly enjoyed.

Imposing Power & Performance After exploring and getting better acquainted with the various exterior and interior aspects of the model, we were raring to see the HAN’s performance on the road. Equipped with an advanced system that uses an 85.4kWh battery, it provides an impressive range of up to 521km on a single charge. This is possible due to BYD’s gamechanging Blade Battery that has passed a series of extreme tests in rigorous conditions making it one of the world’s safest. Even in the case of overload, overheating, crushing or piercing and during the rigorous ‘nail penetration test’, the battery produced neither smoke nor flame and the surface temperature only reached 30 to 60°C. And, when it comes to powering up the vehicle, its 120kW DC fast charging is truly reliable. In ideal conditions, the battery can be quickly recharged from 30% to 80% within 30 minutes. Moreover, the HAN's aerodynamic design is a perfect balance for speed, endurance and range. Highly responsive when pushed, the model goes from 0-100km/h in just 3.9 seconds. The electric all-wheel drive operates spectacularly in real time, providing superb traction control. But when called upon, the integrated brake control system reacts on command by effectively reducing brake response time.

Our Verdict Integrating the most advanced technologies in the electric vehicle industry, this latest BYD HAN model boasts stylish craftsmanship expertly combined with formidable performance. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.BYD.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 44

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REGIONAL RIDES •

“

Inspired by the Chinese dragon, the new BYD HAN exudes a sporty attitude, with stylish aesthetics from the Orient.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

ELITE PERFORMACE The latest E-Class from Mercedes-Benz marries the model’s long history with the trendsetters of the brand’s EQs.

Available at Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the 2024 model boasts a new modern look that builds a bridge to the avant-garde trendsetters in the Mercedes-Benz EQ range, while continuing with the long history of the classic E-Class performance, harmoniously combining tradition and modernity. The 2024 Mercedes E-Class Sedan maintains the unique character of the legendary model but thoughtfully adds progressive stylistic elements that are characteristic of innovative dynamism such as the illuminated radiator grille and the elegantly stylish rear end design with fascinating lighting details. The interior is well equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology that elevates the driving experience to higher levels. The Digital Light with projection function offers the highest level of visibility and comfort for drivers’ safety. It reacts to changing traffic conditions, the carriageway and the weather to ensure optimised light adapted to the situation for a wide field of vision at all times. Designed with software-driven intelligence, the new E-Class Sedan achieves new dimensions of digital customisation. The new infotainment generation MBUX offers the latest functions and services as well as opportunities for interaction between you and your E-Class. All displays form an integrated aesthetic experience and can be personalised with display styles, modes and colour themes. The MBUX Superscreen also features a selfie and video camera on top of the dashboard. When the vehicle is stationary, the driver can participate in online video conferences The Burmester 4D sound system, with Dolby Atmos surround sound and 17 individual speakers, is remarkable. 46

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The Multicontour Seat package with memory and massage functions provides separate controls for the driver and front passenger. The extended comfort control lets users select different massage programmes. With the Acoustic Comfort package, the E-Class strives for optimised sound insulation. While driving, the head-up display transforms the windscreen into a digital cockpit. With the virtual, full-colour image, drivers always have a direct view of key information. Additionally, the latest E-Class is equipped with a Digital Vehicle Key feature which enables unlocking, starting and locking of the car using a compatible device without having to carry a physical vehicle key around. ✤ GO: CALL 4462 4444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MOTORING NEWS •

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• MOTORING NEWS

A FIRST FOR QATAR The MG Cyberster visited Qatar as part of its Middle East leg of a landmark transcontinental journey celebrating the car maker’s 100 Years of Passion. Auto Class Cars and MG Motor Qatar presented the highly anticipated Cyberster model in a special event at MG Qatar showroom in Lusail which hosted international adventurers the Turner Twins, who are driving the car in their dedicated journey across the Middle East. The Cyberster takes inspiration from the British-born brand’s renowned classic MGB model and features the latest automotive technology and electrifying innovation. The sports car’s tour is a significant initiative marking MG's Centenary celebrations. The MG Cyberster is the brand’s flagship two-door fully electric sports car, representing an exquisite combination of futuristic design and exhilarating performance. It has a distinctive low nose and curvaceous rear haunches, as well as striking scissor doors and a Kammback tail. In terms of power and performance, MG Cyberster is available with a single-motor model with 64kWh battery capacity or a dual-motor model boasting 77kWh. The most powerful variant can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h within 3.2 seconds.

Driven by the Turner twins, the MG Cyberster commenced its journey from London’s Westminster Bridge, UK to Shanghai, China. Frank Zauner, GM, Auto Class Cars the authorised general distributor of MG in Qatar said: “Auto Class Cars is honoured to host this special event to commemorate the MG 100th anniversary and welcome the amazing Turner Twins in Qatar. This is part of its ongoing commitment to the environment and contribution to Qatar National Vision 2030 through supporting its environmental pillar.” ✤ GO: CALL 4040 1444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BRUTE POWER DELIGHTS CUSTOM FANS Taking pride of place among the displays at this year’s Qatar Custom Show was Al Mana Motors Company’s prized, 2023 Bronco Raptor which was unveiled to off-road fans at the event. The Qatar Custom Show draws the country’s most passionate automotive fans with a love for custom-built vehicles, and they were captivated by the Bronco Raptor’s brutish display of horsepower. The vehicle packs a knockout punch with 418Hp and 440lb of torque. Speaking to the media Islam Ahmed – Al Mana Motors Company Showroom Manager said: “We were certain that the 2023 Bronco Raptor was going to satisfy the most ardent motorists who look for memorable off-road driving experiences. Bringing out the 2023 Bronco Raptor at the Qatar Custom Show is something we did with enormous pride. The interest that this model generated was incredible because, with its 10-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle is ready to take on the roughest of terrain and it has a way of asserting its own formidable leadership among any competitor. We are thrilled that so many fans interacted with the model, and we know the interest in this engineering marvel from Ford truly made a massive impression at the show.” ✤ GO: CALL 6632 1321 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE. 48

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• PLUGGED IN

KEEP IT HOT! Never let drinks go cold with Ember’s temperature-controlled mugs. Ever made yourself a nice hot cup of tea or coffee, only to be distracted by unexpected calls or work demands and returned to a disappointing lukewarm brew? Consider that problem solved and always drink your beverage hot with the Ember Mug 2. Designed for both home and office use, the mug uses patented temperature-control technology that consistently keeps drinks hot and at your preferred temperature (between 48°C and 62°C) from the first sip to the last. With the help of its new charging coaster, the Ember Mug 2 maintains the chosen temperature for up to 90 minutes with the 296ml version and up to 80 minutes with the 414ml version. Additionally, it pairs with the Ember app, allowing users to set the temperature, customise presets and more. The mug intelligently enters sleep mode when empty or after two hours of inactivity and wakes up when it senses movement or liquid. Both sizes of the Ember Mug 2 come in a variety of colours, such as sage green, sandstone, black, white and grey, as well as four metallic shades. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.EMBER.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SPICK AND SPAN iRobot Roomba j7+ gives a helping hand (or wheel) with daily cleaning tasks. There are few things as relaxing as walking into a clean room but maintaining it, considering today’s busy lifestyles, is far from easy. At times like this, even a little help goes a long way – that’s where the iRobot Roomba j7+ comes in – providing that much needed assistance. Developed by iRobot Corp, a leader in consumer robots, the Roomba j7+ is a premium robot vacuum with advanced automation features. It has been designed to seamlessly blend into users’ homes, as a thoughtful, collaborative cleaning partner that delivers superior performance in every task it’s given. Powered by iRobot Genius 3.0 technology and featuring PrecisionVision Navigation, the Roomba j7+ gets smarter with each use. It learns how best to navigate users’ floors, remembering specific rooms and certain furniture, to clean where it’s most needed. The robot is capable of cleaning automatically even when users are not at home with the help of the companion app. It correctly identifies and avoids cords and pet waste, a convenient feature. Moreover, the Roomba j7+ empties all the dirt collected into the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal with an enclosed bag that effectively captures 99% of pollen and mould. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.AMAZON.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 50

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ORIENTPEARL

ORIENT_PEARL_RESTAURANT For more info 33335726

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• PLUGGED IN

CHANGE UP YOUR CHARGING Nomad has unveiled a new device that supports MagSafe and Qi2 magnetic charging. Nomad, a well-known manufacturer of premium mobile accessories, has launched its first stand charger that’s based on the new magnet-enhanced Qi2 standard – the latest wireless charging standard that offers a faster and more reliable connection in comparison to previous versions. The device features a stylish upright metal and glass design that’s available in black or white colour options. The stand’s integrated magnet array aligns perfectly with the iPhone’s MagSafe magnets and offers 15W charging for any Qi2-enabled device. Whether users are busy reading an email or trying to get back to sleep, they can just feel for the magnetic snap to kick off the charging function. Weighing in at 613g, it stays steadily anchored to the table when users are ready to grab their device and go. While the elevated charging puck lets them easily wrap their fingers around the device for easy pickup. Whether the mobile is placed in the horizontal or vertical position on the stand, the convenient 21° viewing angle is perfect for continued effortless use and interaction with the screen. The Nomad stand also comes with a two-metre USB-C to USB-C cable. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.NOMADGOODS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

TRACKED PROGRESS Withings’ latest body scale offers users advanced health assessment. As many of us stay dedicated to working on the various health goals we’ve set for the year, there are few tools that prove to be as useful as a scale to help keep us on track in our progress. Withings, a leading manufacturer of connected health devices, has unveiled the Body Smart scale that provides accurate weight and body composition measurements. The device features the company’s proprietary Precision Technology that combines multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), precision weight sensors and advanced algorithms to help deliver insights and health analysis. Body Smart provides users with exact weight and other advanced health measurements to dig deeper into body composition, expanding from measuring fat, muscle mass and water weight percentage to analysing visceral fat and other advanced body metrics. The device also measures basal metabolic rate and tracks cardiovascular measurements and insights by monitoring users’ standing heart rates. Body Smart comes in a simple, elegant design and features a colour screen that displays all the relevant information. It connects with the Withings app and is the ideal way for users to keep track of activity, sleep, weight, trends and progress, as well as get coaching to help improve over time. ✤ 52

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GO: VISIT WWW.WITHINGS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for February?

Etsy

Paired

Buying a gift could be as simple as going to a mall and picking something off a rack. But getting your loved one a special or personalised present is a thoughtful touch that makes a lasting impression. Etsy is a global marketplace for such unique and creative goods. With the Etsy app, users can access a universe of distinctive items, from specific handcrafted pieces to vintage treasures. You can easily shop from thousands of one-of-a-kind items and find that perfect gift. Easily browse, search or be surprised, as the app provides personalised recommendations for stylish jewellery, art, clothing and furniture that're tailored to your taste. The Etsy app allows saving items and shops as favourites for quick access and directly connects with shop owners to get questions answered. It also gives timely notifications when an order ships and lets users save Google Wallet or PayPal to check out swiftly and securely.

Much like physical and mental health, relationships are an area of our lives that require regular attention to stay in good shape. Paired is an engaging app that’s designed to gently nudge users and their significant others towards consistently having meaningful conversations. Even the best relationships need time and energy invested in them, but deciding what to do specifically may not always come easy. The app’s features intentionally help boost communication, connection and intimacy between partners and make putting the work in fun and simple. Paired offers daily questions, games and quizzes rooted in relationship science that are designed to strengthen and deepen connections. The app also features expert tips on how to build healthy relationship habits and resolve conflict, written by leading therapists and academics. Furthermore, you can keep track of special moments and cherished memories together using its Timeline feature.

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Malte Budde The new GM at Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha on the importance of teamwork, property renovations and an interesting hobby.

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5 OVER 5 •

Congratulations on your new appointment. After many years of experience in Europe, what inspired you to take up this role in Qatar? Having previously visited the Middle East with my family during holidays, I am no stranger to this captivating part of the world. The commendable reputation of Qatar as a desirable destination, coupled with the resounding success of the FIFA World Cup 2022, left an indelible impression on me. Qatar's remarkable achievements in putting itself on the global map have served as a tremendous source of inspiration, prompting me to venture into this part of the world and personally immerse myself in its offerings. Hence, it is with immense delight that I find myself currently engaged in work within this extraordinary locale. Do you think your management style will be different here in the Middle East? And if so, how? I think everyone has their own style of management. Of course, I have to adapt whilst maintaining who I am and what makes me unique. I like creating a culture of excellence, implementing innovative strategies and fostering relationships with not only our guests and stakeholders, but specifically our employees. I believe in providing ways for my team to express and build on their ideas, and trust that they can turn these ideas into success. As a team, we can make anything happen. So far, the team is doing a fantastic job in terms of operational excellence and we want to build our future on this base. Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha is currently undergoing refurbishment. What upgrades can guests expect at the property, and what are your plans for the future? Through the comprehensive refurbishment of every room and event venue, guests can anticipate an entirely new experience, characterised by contemporary aesthetics and cutting-edge amenities. Each area is thoughtfully designed to be multifunctional as well as seamlessly interconnected both physically and visually, enabling our esteemed guests to effortlessly select and utilise

the space according to their unique requirements, irrespective of the occasion. Our primary focus lies in further elevating our food and beverage establishments as a key strategy. In line with this objective, we have recently introduced our latest entertainment venue, RUBIX. Our aim is to capitalise on the already established reputation of our restaurants, not only by introducing new themed nights and enhancing our beverage selection, but also by creating unforgettable dining experiences that leave a lasting impression on our valued patrons. On a personal note, you have said: “I have always loved the idea of not being what people expect me to be.” What do you mean by this, and can you give some examples? I always think that you can accomplish the greatest achievements in life. To be successful in business, you have to build a team of people who trust each other and believe in the same overall philosophy. Create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be their best together, and you can do the unexpected. For example, at some of my previous hotels, I was able to host international superstars for charity events. We were also able to build a concert stage in front of one hotel during the pandemic so that hotel guests could safely enjoy live music. This was greatly appreciated by all the hotel guests, which made it even more special for the team and myself. There are many more stories… If someone tells you that something is not possible, that is their limitation, not yours. Do you have a secret talent or bucket list item that would surprise our readers? I do not have a secret talent, but one thing that somewhat stands out is my passion for collecting vintage vinyl records. I love to visit markets and try to find records by The Beatles, Rolling Stones etc. I have already discovered that there are some souq merchants who sell records, and I look forward to exploring those offerings throughout the weekends here in Doha. ✤ fact magazine

• BUSINESS IN FOCUS

REDEFINING THE DOHA LIFESTYLE SCENE Ramzi Abdallah, founder of Mystique Management, talks innovation, concept creation and the pioneering spirit in Qatar. You have a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering. What inspired you to make the move into the hospitality sector? While engineering might sometimes be perceived as rigid, it also requires a lot of creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. This aspect of my background helped me develop unique food and beverage (F&B) concepts, implement innovative solutions and stand out from the competition. Hospitality is a dynamic and rewarding industry that is never boring, I can assure you! The journey started back in 2008, while I was doing my Masters, when I opened a restaurant in Downtown Montreal for a brand that was created by an innovative Canadian chef. I discovered that I have a passion for this business and decided to grow it when I moved to Qatar. The vision was clear, to redefine the scene in Doha and create unique concepts that either answered a need in the market or offered new experiences. You started Society, MonkeyTale, Kaia and Glen House. What, in your view, is the secret formula for creating successful concepts such as these? An F&B concept has a certain life span, yet, a company can last forever. We began by creating Mystique Management, which is a hospitality concept creation company that started in Qatar in 2013; it creates brands from A to Z – from design, to branding, marketing, menu curation, entertainment planning, staffing, the whole thing. Every venue must achieve the ideal mix of location, ambience, entertainment offering and cuisine. That’s a given. However, keeping venues afloat requires a lot of creativity as the market requires trend-setting concepts with constant evolution, innovation, dedication and investment. Within each brand, we have segmented our offerings to appeal to a wider audience range. An example on this is Society, which has been in the market for the past eight years. This illustrates a long time-span in the club industry, and it is still on the rise while competing with the best in the region, based on feedback from top international artists we have hosted through the years. While we believe that having a deep knowledge of the industry is essential for maintaining a venue, we consider that its longterm success is built on the core strength of the concept itself and the team behind it. We’ve also learned that guests are on the lookout for lifestyle driven concepts that are timeless and consistent. This is the common factor across all our venues. The inspiration came from renowned international brands and we tailored the offering to suit the local market. Our vision was global with a local adaptation and customer centric focus. The venues we created promise guests everlasting experiences that appeal 58

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Ramzi Abdallah

Glen House

BUSINESS IN FOCUS • MonkeyTale

Kaia

to both residents and international visitors. Cutting corners is not an option as we appeal to the most discerning customers who are used to high standards.

Society

With Mystique, you branched into marketing for both your own businesses and the wider community. How did you go about setting up in yet another area of expertise? Recognising the importance of effective marketing, we founded a niche hospitality marketing and consulting agency under Mystique Management. The goal was to uniquely market our own brands at first and then it developed to extend support to other businesses in the market. Setting up Mystique involved assembling a team of skilled marketers, planners, creative designers and content creators, developing strategic marketing plans tailored to each business and leveraging our network and industry knowledge to create impactful campaigns. By branching into the marketing segment, we aimed to demonstrate versatility and a holistic approach to ensure the success of our own ventures and those of others. Is Qatar a good place for entrepreneurs? And what advice do you have for any budding entrepreneurs in the market? Qatar’s robust economy is promising and the country is always on the rise, providing ample opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive. Understanding the market and the target audience is essential to continued growth. It is a favourable environment for those with innovative ideas and a commitment to excellence. Maintaining an ethical business approach, loyalty to clients and constant creativity and persistence would be the top key aspects I would highlight. ✤ fact magazine

• VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN

FUSION INSPIRATION Lambert Chiang, Head Chef of b-lounge at The Ritz-Carlton-Doha explains the fusion of Asian styles and the importance of heritage in his cooking

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

What first attracted you to life in the kitchen? I come from a family of restaurateurs and chefs. My parents once owned a restaurant and ran it for 30 years. This allowed me to be exposed to the culinary world and restaurant business at an early age. That was when I decided to study culinary arts and pursue a career as a professional chef and decided to join a culinary school. How did you come to specialise in Japanese and Pan-Asian cuisine, what is it about this style of cooking that you like? Growing up with a Chinese background, I've always been surrounded by the rich medley of Asian cultures. Exploring Pan-Asian cuisine feels like a natural extension of my cultural heritage. In my family, Chinese cuisine has always been a central part of our traditions. As I explore other Asian cuisines, I see connections and shared elements that resonate with the flavours and techniques I grew up with. I've always had a curiosity about the diverse cultures and cuisines within Asia. During family gatherings and celebrations, we often enjoy a mix of Chinese and other Asian dishes. This experience fostered an appreciation for the diverse and delicious flavours that span the entire Pan-Asian spectrum. You’ve been involved in several pre-openings and openings – please tell us about this process and how it has developed your skills? Being involved at this stage is a significant professional experience that presented a range of responsibilities and challenges. The process of preparing for and executing these openings has contributed to the development and enhancement of the various skills I have today. The pre-opening process, in the early stages, focusses on conceptualising the hotel or restaurant, defining its theme, target audience and unique selling points. Understanding the market and competition is crucial. This involves identifying trends, customer preferences and potential challenges. There is also budgeting and financial planning for areas including construction, interior design, marketing and operational expenses. And forming a competent team is essential. This involves recruiting staff for various departments and providing them with the necessary training. Establishing relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring a smooth supply chain are additional vital components. The opening stage includes overseeing the construction and interior design to ensure the physical space aligns with the intended concept. Developing a unique concept and finding creative solutions to challenges fosters creativity and innovation and this is a phase during which problem solving is a real area for skill development. During this period there is also collaboration with the culinary team to create a menu that aligns with the

concept and caters to the target audience. And we are also careful to monitor customer feedback during the soft opening, this helps in refining services and offerings to meet customer expectations. Your signature dish is Gochujang Miso Lamb Chops. How was it developed and why is it popular? The inspiration came from my desire to create a fusion dish that combines the bold and spicy flavours of Korean cuisine (represented by gochujang) with the umami-rich and savoury notes of Japanese cuisine (represented by miso). I have chosen lamb chops as the protein for their rich and robust flavour that pairs well with both gochujang and miso. The combination of these distinct Asian ingredients with lamb creates a unique and harmonious blend. The Gochujang Miso Lamb Chops gained popularity due to their innovative fusion concept, well-balanced flavours and trendy and high-quality ingredients. ✤ fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

ENTERTAINMENT UNDER THE STARS FACT enjoyed an exceptional al fresco experience at the Aqua terrace. 62

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

n the vibrant heart of Doha, perched atop the Mandarin Oriental, sits Aqua, a rooftop terrace where the city's heartbeat merges with the serene expanse of Barahat Msheireb's view. It was here, under a canopy of stars and the soft glow of ambient lights, that we embarked on an evening of amazing beverages and culinary discovery. Aqua unfurled as a rooftop sanctuary amidst the energetic pulse of the surrounding city where guests can experience a lively and relaxing ambience with distinct lounge seating and al frescostyle dining. The bar, under soft lantern light, offered a welcoming glow, while the tables were caressed by candlelight, flickering gently against the city’s burgeoning twilight. Olive trees rustled softly, framing the terrace, as guests settled into the comfortable embrace of chairs arranged for intimate conversation. The setting sun draped the city in a tapestry of dusky hues, with the terrace perched like a jewel, a haven where the zest of urban life met the tranquillity of the open sky. Aqua offers guests a stunning rooftop experience which celebrates the spectacular views of Barahat Msheireb and the Doha skyline While the DJ set the terrace alive with beats, chatter and clinking glasses filled the air. Joe, the manager, greeted us with a friendly smile that spoke of genuine hospitality. His eyes sparkled with the fervour of a man whose passion for Italian hospitality and cuisine was not just a profession but a love affair. Serviced by the same kitchen as Mosaic, guests can enjoy an à la carte menu featuring light and healthy cuisines with easy sharing dishes. Signature mocktails, iced teas, juices and lemonades, created around a refreshing and summery theme and made from fresh and natural ingredients, are blended together to give fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT balanced and refreshing flavours. There is also a wide selection of signature mixed drinks as well as the finest selections of grapes, hops and premium beverages. Italian Classics We began with the starters, a carefully curated selection that promised to transport us to the rolling hills of Tuscany. The Focaccia Olio di Oliva & Aceto Balsamico, a bread which is a staple of Italian tables, was an ode to simplicity, its rosemarykissed crust evoking the rustic charm of an Italian farmhouse. Arancini Siciliani were parcels of delight, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that conjured up images of bustling Sicilian markets. Each breadcrumb-covered rice ball was subtly laced with saffron and had a heart of beef ragu and melted cheese. Alongside these dishes was The Battuta di Tonno & Ponzuan – an oceanic vision on the plate, with finely chopped tuna glistening like precious gems. Delicately bathed in a Sicilian red orange ponzu, each slice of fish was a reflection of the sea's freshness, with citrus notes that danced on the tongue. Sumptuous Mains The dishes that followed offered a crescendo of flavours, each a masterpiece in its own right. The Lamb Arrosticini & Olio di Oliva was a revelation, effortlessly falling off the bone, each rib of lamb melting into a symphony of herb-infused tenderness. The Calzone Classico, or classic folded pizza, offered a delicate balance of textures, its golden crust encasing a mélange of creamy cheeses and rich tomato sauce. Lastly, the Gamberoni alla Griglia were a masterclass in marine simplicity, each shrimp was presented on the plate partially shelled, inviting an interactive delight where only a gentle peel was needed before indulging in their succulent flesh. Each shrimp bore a faint hint of chilli that subtly awakened the senses. This delicate heat did not overwhelm but rather lifted the natural, sweet flavours of the seafood to new heights. As for the Beef Tagliata di Manzo, its meat was tender and rich, pan-seared to perfect succulence. Each slice offered just the right resistance before yielding to the bite. Nestled upon a bed of fresh rocket leaves, the robust flavour was elevated by a vibrant onion marmalade, which brought a sweet complexity, beautifully offset by the tang of a balsamic reduction. This exquisite ensemble was cradled between slices of crusty bread, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasted delightfully with the soft, rich interior. A Chic and Stylish Space As we dined, it was impossible not to notice the multitude of guests gathered, all basking in the perfect weather that graced the evening. Aqua proved to be the quintessential venue for anyone seeking to indulge in a leisurely drink or a full meal. A stylish space with elegant landscaping, calming water features and modern, semi-private seating, the air was alive with a gentle breeze, carrying the rhythmic beats of the DJ's selections that infused the atmosphere with an infectious energy. Dessert was a sweet denouement, with the Tiramisu al Caramello Salato layering coffee-soaked savoiardi biscuits and mascarpone in a decadent embrace. It was elevated by the salted caramel 64

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base that wove through the dessert, adding an innovative and indulgent complexity. The trio of house-made ice creams, Gelato alla Vaniglia, offered an exquisite accompaniment. The pistachio boasted rich, nutty tones, the fruit variant burst with seasonal freshness and the vanilla was a creamy classic. Each scoop was a tribute to the restaurant's dedication to using fresh, premium ingredients, turning a simple dessert into an artisanal experience. As the evening drew in and the music softened to a gentle hum, we reflected on our experience. Aqua, a secret oasis nestled in the heart of the city’s town square, is a sophisticated restaurant and bar. A place where all are welcome to unwind with friends, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. ✤

GO: AQUA IS OPEN MONDAY TO SUNDAY FROM 5.30PM TO 1AM. CALL 4008 8888 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

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• ON THE MENU

RIDING A WAVE OF FLAVOUR Laura Morris discovered a new menu, alongside some staple favourites, at this cool venue at Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. 66

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ON THE MENU •

aybe this year you hope to get more active or perhaps take up a new hobby? Or maybe you plan to simply soak in more of what Qatar has to offer in terms of scenery and beaches! All of these can be accomplished at Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (FKB) where you’ll find The Rider, the resort’s laid-back casual dining restaurant. The ‘Rock On’ statue situated centrally in the welcome space of FKB tells you everything you need to know about this place, specifically that it’s cool! Upon entering the restaurant, an immediate sense of chill and relaxation washed over me. Neon signs bathed the space in vibrant hues, harmonising with clashing colours on the walls. The tiled floor, camper vans and graffiti art contribute to an industrial charm, creating an atmosphere that seamlessly blends nostalgia with urban creativity. The high ceilings and open-plan layout add spaciousness, inviting patrons to linger and embrace the relaxed ethos. Quotes encouraging patrons to ‘Hang Loose’ adorn the walls, reinforcing the carefree spirit of the place. As I settled into my seat, a curated playlist of laid-back beats played softly, complementing the visual feast around me. In recent weeks, a fresh breeze of innovation has swept into The Rider with the arrival of Chef Mohamad Al Ezzy. Just a few weeks into his tenure, his transformative touch is already set to make an indelible mark, promising a culinary adventure for all. Chef Mohamad has gone beyond the kitchen, engaging directly with customers to discern their preferences. This insightful approach has culminated in the creation of a vibrant new menu, set to launch this month, characterised by a fusion of Arabic influences

and classic mezze options. One of his standout contributions lies in the expansion of the grill selection, promising an array of delights that reflect his commitment to elevating what is already a popular dining spot for those seeking something outside of the city. First to arrive from the new menu was the Orange-Beet Salad. The combination of earthy beets, crunchy walnuts and zesty citrus slices, topped with finely cut feta and mesclun created a harmonious and memorable flavour profile. Next, we sampled the hummus. Now, if you are putting this on the menu in Doha, you have to do it right. And I am glad to report it was a velvety indulgence and boasted a smooth and creamy texture with subtle notes of tahini and garlic. While changes to the menu have been made, some popular staples have been kept but elevated and enhanced. Such as the Combo Platter, elegantly presented on a reclaimed curve of wood, which was a much-needed serving of naughtiness and plenty of course to share. The in-house marinated Chicken Tenders, with their golden and crispy exterior, revealed a depth of flavour that’s lingered in memory. The Onion Rings, lightly battered and perfectly crisp, shared the spotlight with Mozzarella Sticks oozing with molten cheese. This grab-and-go assortment, a testament to convenience on busy days, is perfect for those wanting a quick bite between activities. A tip from me, be generous with the cocktail dip, it’s sweet and moreish! While tucking into my feast I gazed out at the beach and the skyline came alive with a kaleidoscope of colourful kites, creating a mesmerising dance against the backdrop of the vast horizon. fact magazine

• ON THE MENU

Statues and street art murals adorned the sides of the hotel, adding a touch of whimsy to the coastal landscape. Their vibrant hues mirrored the dynamic energy of the kite surfers in action. Enjoying the view, but ready to sample some mains, we relished the arrival of the Oriental Mixed Grill. Eating this would be akin to conquering a mountain of meats! Lamb cutlets, seared to perfection, yielded a succulent explosion of flavours that lingered on the palate. The chicken shish, tender and juicy, are served alongside delectable chunks of perfectly seasoned beef. I urge you to try these paired with the flatbread adorned with smoky tomato sauce and a fragrant parsley and coriander topping, the interplay of textures and tastes is most delightful! Lamb kofta, infused with exquisite seasoning, added a rich and savoury depth to this dish, as did the essence of the grilled veggies, which offered a refreshing contrast to the mighty meaty flavours. Our final dish of the day, the Atlantic Salmon, was a masterpiece on the plate! Swelling with yellow tomatoes and avocado and bathed in a refreshing citrus and olive oil dressing infused with basil, this dish soared high above our expectations! Resting on a finely cut ratatouille base, the warm flaky salmon was flavourful and delicious. The beetroot purée added a rich and earthy undertone, creating a vibrant presentation that seamlessly echoed the lively and eclectic vibe of the restaurant. Each forkful unfolded a sophisticated freshness and was the perfect end to our meal. …At least, we thought that was the end, but it didn’t take much encouragement to agree try the new star of the sweet offerings: a San Sebastian, baked, crustless cheesecake. I mean, we’ve all had good cheesecake before, right? But have you ever had a crustless one? I’m ready to tell you that it was a sensory experience like no other! Its texture, a perfect blend of lightness 68

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and creaminess, delicately melted in the mouth with every bite. Without a traditional crust, the cheesecake stood independently, allowing its ethereal consistency to shine. The dessert was further elevated with a lavish pour of rich chocolate sauce. I lapped up every morsel till I was fit to burst. Whether you are a kite surfer yourself, or just along for the ride, The Rider will satisfy your appetite for sure. A laid-back oasis, where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and try something new to boot. If you haven’t yet made the journey up to FKB, what are you waiting for? ✤

GO: CALL 4030 1555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

THE ROYAL AFTERNOON TEA Step into a fragrant botanical escape at Doha’s finest address, where the majestic feast is carefully designed to ignite all of your senses. Savor an extensive spread of delicacies featuring freshly baked scones, meticulously crafted sandwiches, and some classic recipes with a twist. To complete your experience, reserve your workshop with Moyses Stevens flower artists from London.

Daily except Fridays | 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM QAR 200 for 1 person QAR 300 for 2 persons

Reserve Now

4446 0127 |

3387 0925

The St. Regis Doha

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• DINING DELIGHT

A JOURNEY INTO GASTRONOMY Sanaa Choudry discovered the tastes and textures of Spain at Lobito De Mar.

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‘W

DINING DELIGHT •

e bring all the flavour of the sea in every dish.’ This is the promise from Lobito De Mar and it’s one they certainly keep. The second offering in Doha by renowned chef, Dani García, they have one aim: to offer customers fresh Spanish seafood from the most select fish markets, together with the best paella recipes from Andalusia. Like its Marbella sister, the Doha restaurant is perfectly situated at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, nestled on the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Bringing the freshness of the seashore to the urban jungle, this casual beach restaurant, located on the ground floor, is airy and bright boasting crisp decor and comfortable white seating with brass-style ceiling lamps and fishermen's netting. Subtle maritime hues and textures can be found all around reflecting the essence of the seafood menu. On entering, we are immediately greeted by Lubnah, who seats us on the terrace to overlook the breath-taking views. Of Moroccan descent but having grown up in Spain, she has been raised eating the most authentic Spanish cuisine and we trust her to devise a menu of the best courses. The sun perched high in the sky on a perfect Saturday afternoon, we whet our palates with refreshing mocktails. However, they are not presented in any old cup. Two tall tiki chalices arrive (swiftly adding to the fun of a delicious drink in the sun). I order the Palm Spring. A delightful mixture of creamy coconut, fresh tart lemon juice and earthy basil, quickly followed with a Loo Maniac, which is a concoction of lime tea, orange juice and passion fruit syrup. Palates quenched, we’re ready for the first course: Porterhouse Tuna Carpaccio. Succulently satisfying, this appetiser of thinly sliced raw tuna is drizzled with the finest Arbequina olive oil – adding a harmonious sweetness to the dish – and served with warm bread. Lubnah explains that whilst Spain is often recognised for its tapas, this is, in fact, only a small part of the rich and extensive cuisine. Southern Spain boasts some of the best tuna in the world and here we are, lucky enough to devour the finest import. We’re advised to save the fatty part until the end as it is the richest in taste, and it lives up to all expectations! Bursting with flavour and melting in the mouth, the tuna carpaccio is an elegant appetiser that serves as the perfect introduction to Spanish flavours. We also sample a few dishes from Dani Garcia's other restaurant Bibo, located on the top floor, including the excellent Ceviche de Lubina - a Dani Garcia signature - the freshness of the sea bass accentuated by the mild heat of the Aji Amarillo pepper to render this South American staple a slightly sweet and spicy triumph. Next on the menu is a sizzling plate of Gambas Al Ajillo, otherwise known as shrimp, cloaked in garlic-infused olive oil and delicately sprinkled with smoky hints of paprika. The ideal tapas bar snack, the sweet shrimp is bursting with savoury juices from the marination whilst the toasted bread is perfect for mopping up the leftover oils that crackle and hiss in the earthenware dish. Just like the tuna carpaccio, the success of this dish lies in its simplicity. Serving as a delectable companion to the juicy prawns is the oxtail brioche, a carnivore's delight. The brioche boasts layers of pulled oxtail meat, nestled between sweet buns and generously fact magazine

• DINING DELIGHT drizzled with a tantalising 'special sauce.' Meanwhile, vegetarians can indulge in the Aguacate a la Brasa, a crowd-pleaser featuring charred avocado adorned with a sprinkle of sour cream and feta cheese. A lover of simplicity and refinery, I find myself most excited to tuck into the Tortilla de Patata. However, this Spanish omelette is unlike any I’ve ever tasted before. A quintessential dish in Spanish gastronomy, the potato omelette holds a special place, with each chef infusing their unique twist. Renowned for his innovative culinary style, Chef Dani García has successfully reimagined this traditional favourite in a distinctive and delightful manner. What sets Dani García's potato omelette apart is its singular approach: the omission of onions. According to the chef, this exclusion eliminates sweetness, allowing the exceptional flavour of the potatoes to shine. The result is a harmonious blend where the potatoes take centre stage, achieving a velvety interior texture that pairs perfectly with the eggs. But what is Spanish cuisine without paella? The centrepiece of the occasion features enormous pans filled with aromatic, glossy and perfectly cooked rice along with the delightful crackle of socarrat – the crusty, crunchy layer at the base of the paella – that resonates like music for any food enthusiast. This isn't your typical overcooked rice mound; this is the authentic experience. The seafood paella is studded with succulent prawns, elevating the culinary delight even further. The savoury dishes thus far have been a success, how about the desserts? To begin with, we are showcased a tarte de queso, a Basque-style cheesecake, but with a unique twist. Unlike the traditional sweet version, this one leans more towards savoury,

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presenting a delicate, custard-like cake with a nutty biscuit base. The finishing touch includes a generous shaving of manchego, creating a heavenly experience for cheese enthusiasts. Not to be outdone, the flan de huevo is silky smooth and perfectly creamy, topped with a decadent layer of homemade caramel. In other words, a classic favourite that is done just right. Lobito De Mar sets a new benchmark for seafood, placing emphasis on top-notch ingredients in every dish. In just one afternoon, I am delighted to acquaint myself with the finest Spanish cuisine in Qatar, where quality produce takes centre stage. ✤

GO: CALL 3100 0373 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• FOODIE FIESTA

WATERFRONT DINING DELIGHT AMS discovered a place where the scenic seafront meets culinary splendour on a visit to Beefbar Doha.

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FOODIE FIESTA •

he architectural marvel that houses Beefbar Doha had us spellbound. The building's sleek, futuristic design cuts a striking silhouette against the crystal-clear sky, the reflective glass facade gleaming under the sun’s gentle caress. The curvature of the structure seeming to flow seamlessly with the natural surroundings, floating above the water. Beefbar is a culinary concept that's as unique as it is refined. An idea brought to life by the visionary Riccardo Giraudi, in MonteCarlo, it has shattered the mould of conventional steakhouses, offering an environment that oozes modern luxury. As we entered the main dining space, the interior unfolded before us like a scene from a modern-day Gatsby affair. Grandeur was evident in the sweeping curves of the artfully designed staircase, a golden spine ascending towards the heavens. Soft lighting cast a warm glow on the brushed gold accents and marble tabletops; lush greenery added a touch of the tropics, infusing the space with life. The seating, upholstered in the finest fabrics, promised comfort that whispered of long, leisurely meals. Every corner was meticulously designed to create an ambience both inviting and awe-inspiring, encapsulating the very essence of luxury dining. Our Journey Unfolds We didn’t have to wait long for the introductory offering—The Croque Sando. The dish immediately impressed us with its tender, dry-aged beef ribeye and creamy mozzarella, enhanced by the rich house-made sauce. Moving on, the Signature Carpaccio captivated with its thinly sliced Black Angus beef fillet, harmoniously paired with an unexpected blend of za’atar and maple syrup. The marriage of herbs and sweetness enlivened our taste buds. The Mini Big K burgers offered a delightful gourmet twist, featuring three Wagyu beef bacon patties, each amplified by signature sauces. Our favourite was the creamy truffle flavoured slider, although all were perfectly executed. Finally, the Wagyu Beef Bresaola stood out with its silky texture and a perfect balance of savoury and sweet, a true indulgence. Paired with decadent Panettone, instead of regular bread, the dish took on a transcendent quality, reminding us of visits to Milan, Verona or Venice. Five-Star Service At the heart of Beefbar’s exceptional experience was Gerda, the restaurant manager, and her team, a group whose service can only be likened to the exclusive attention one receives in the firstclass cabin of a premier airline. Dressed to the nines in cream suits, their flawless appearance spoke of the sophistication and professionalism they embody. Each member of the staff carried an unbounded knowledge of the menu, a deep understanding of the ingredients and the kind of attention to detail that immediately impressed. They navigated the space with an affability that genuinely put us at ease. What truly set them apart was their balanced approach to service; they were always on hand with a discreet presence that was never overwhelming—meticulous yet unobtrusive. Marvellous Mains Our main courses commenced with The Miso Black Beef – an fact magazine

• FOODIE FIESTA

absolute revelation. As it arrived, presented on a miniature fire pit that mimicked a barbecue, the aroma was intoxicating. The beef, tender and succulent, was glazed in a miso that was masterfully blended with Chinese five-spice. This combination brought forth a symphony of elements – sweet, savoury and a touch of spice – each note distinct yet harmonious. There was a complexity that danced on the palate, evoking the traditional essence of Asian cuisine. The Filet-Frites, served with the renowned Beefbar sauce, consisted of a Wagyu fillet and crunchy French fries. The steak was a culinary ballet of flavours, its succulence unmatched, each bite tender and rich. The fries were reassuringly crisp and carried the earthy hint of truffle in the butter sauce. The sauce, a velvety blend with hints of the original Relais de Paris essence, wrapped each mouthful in a luxurious, savoury embrace.

mouths to release a cascade of sensations. Each slice was an indulgence – a celebration of the art of steak preparation. After savouring our mains, we took a leisurely stroll around the restaurant. Our walk revealed the private dining suites, each a cocoon of luxury and intimacy. We then discovered Bar Asia, a vibrant spot within Beefbar, embodying a fusion of exotic flavours. In the main dining room, a small stage was set for the band that enlivens the brunch sessions, adding a dynamic layer to the dining experience.

Splendid Sides Lemon & Lime Mash provided a refreshing counterpoint, its airy texture serving as the ideal backdrop for the lively citrus tang, artfully balancing tartness with a subtle sweetness. Contrastingly, the Mild Jalapeño Pepper Mash mingled the homely comfort of mashed potatoes with a teasing jalapeño warmth, a gentle flame that flickered without burning. The seasonal vegetables, steamed and bathed in butter, were a welcome addition, bursting with freshness and crispness that spoke to their quality. Their natural flavours complemented the overall richness of the meal with a wholesome touch.

A Sweet Farewell Our brief interlude was gladly interrupted by The Marbled Chocolate Bar by Yazid Ichemrahen. It was a work of art. Crafted to mimic a real bar with impeccable layering, it was a visual masterpiece. Presented on a wooden board, the waiter skilfully sliced it tableside, with a theatrical flourish. To our delight, the pastry chef also joined us, offering a fascinating insight into how the various layers were assembled. This personal touch made the experience all the more memorable. The French Toast that followed was the epitome of a perfect winter dessert. Its warm, caramelised brioche, complemented by the richness of salted caramel sauce, fruits and light cream, evoked the cosy essence of the recent winter break. It was soon time to leave and we were sad to say goodbye. But we had experienced a combination of magnificent food coupled with amazing service that will ensure a return visit. ✤

The Pièce de Résistance The crowning glory of the evening; however, was the Wagyu Striploin. Its marbling mirrored the layers of an ancient geological formation, with a deep history of taste and texture, melting in our

GO: CALL 5111 1134 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

fact magazine

• PALATE PLEASER

AN EVENING OF FRENCH FLAIR AMS discovered a certain je ne sais quoi on a visit to Bar Rouge.

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PALATE PLEASER •

estled within the sophisticated confines of Le Méridien City Center, Doha – a gleaming new jewel in the city's skyline – lies Bar Rouge. Beyond the café of the same name, the restaurant sits discreetly in a private nook of the building, offering a more secluded, intimate atmosphere for those in search of tranquillity. The interior décor exudes modern finesse and warm hospitality. The subdued lighting cast an intimate glow, with a palette of rich browns and subtle creams creating an inviting atmosphere. Strategic accents of golden light from pendant fixtures added a touch of luxury, illuminating the dining space that was thoughtfully arranged to encourage interaction among guests. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a delightful strawberry lemonade, its vibrant hue and sweet-tart flavour providing a refreshing welcome. We also received a basket overflowing with fresh bread – thoughtful gestures that spoke of the commitment to impeccable service and attention to detail. Together At The Table On that particular evening, there was a French theme – part of

a series that featured food and produce from different countries around the globe. The intimate affair unfolded in a convivial setup, where guests were seated at a central dining table, fostering a sense of community and shared adventure. Our evening's guide masterfully introduced the first course, taking great delight in describing the choice of ingredients. We commenced our culinary voyage with the seared tuna salad, a canvas of vibrant colours and diverse textures. The salad was graced with plump cherry tomatoes and crisp gem lettuce, all drizzled in a tangy dressing that complemented the grill's kiss on the tuna's oceanic sweetness. Each element on the plate played its part in creating a harmonious mélange. The succession of flavours built with the arrival of a duo of chicken croquettes, which held within their golden crusts a molten heart of rich, savoury goodness. These bite-sized marvels, reminiscent of mini arancini, were complemented by a swathe of Espelette cream, adding a subtle piquancy that elevated the indulgent creaminess within. This deft culinary touch introduced a refined heat, perfectly marrying the spice to the delicate succulence of the chicken. For the main event, the tenderloin reigned supreme. Seared to fact magazine

• PALATE PLEASER

perfection, its exterior was caramelised to a delicate crisp, while inside, the meat was the epitome of tenderness, a luscious succulence that surrendered to the merest nudge of a fork. Each slice was a blend of deep, earthy tones and rich, sumptuous flavours, harmonising with the sweetness of the baby carrots that provided a tender, honeyed crunch. The Hasselback potatoes contributed their own textural counterpoint, their edges crisped to a golden hue, while their interiors remained indulgently creamy, absorbing the meat's juices and forming a decadent melody of tastes and textures on the plate. Dessert unveiled a delightful spectacle in the form of a millefeuille, where feather-light layers of pastry engaged in a delicate dance with sumptuously velvety cream. Each layer was crafted to perfection, offering a tantalising interplay of textures – the flaky, buttery crispness of the pastry juxtaposed against the silky smoothness of the cream. This luxurious dessert, both visually stunning and exquisitely delicate, provided a supremely sweet finale. 80

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An unmatched experience Throughout the evening, conversation flowed easily amongst the guests, helped by the presence of Elisa, the hotel’s Head of Sales, who extended a warm, friendly welcome that added a personal touch. Her gracious hospitality, combined with the exquisite culinary offerings and insightful grape pairings, made the evening a memorable foray into French cuisine. The team also struck a delightful balance between enlightening education and sheer enjoyment, interspersing the food expositions with a fun 'guess the smell' game, which broke the ice and fostered camaraderie. This fusion of interactive learning and relaxed chit-chat crafted an experience that was both unique and refreshingly different for Doha, leaving an indelible impression of a night well spent.✤

GO: CALL 4041 3333 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel West Bay City Center, Omar Al Mukhtar Street, PO Box 25500, Doha, Qatar

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• DINING DEALS

FEBRUARY FEASTING From Chinese New Year specials to tantalising culinary experiences, your taste buds are in for a treat this month.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL

DUSIT HOTEL & SUITES DOHA

Antoinette’s Begin your day with the Signature Turkish Breakfast featuring authentic kahvaltı, curated by Executive Chef Erhan from Turkey. Offer runs daily from 7am to 10.30am, priced QR159 per person for the set menu with soft drinks and Turkish coffee. GO: Call 4004 4052 or WhatsApp 3070 1295 for more information or to make a booking.

Qureshi Bukhara One of India’s landmark dining destinations comes to Doha and the romance of the country’s rugged northwest frontier comes alive. Embark on a culinary journey through timeless signatures and chef's specialities at their new brunch, served in an inviting buffet spread. Offer runs on Fridays from 1pm to 4.30pm, priced QR129 per person with soft drinks, QR320 with special beverages. GO: Call 4004 4052 or WhatsApp 3070 1295 for more information or to make a booking.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL Taste Discover an innovative, contemporary approach to all-day dining. Check out casual à la carte and set lunches and elegant à la carte dinners, along with mouth-watering themed buffets infusing the interactive elements of live cooking stations including tandoori, ice cream stands and sushi. The lunch buffet is available daily from 12.30pm to 3pm, priced QR89 per person. The dinner buffet runs from Saturday to Wednesday, from 6.30pm to 11pm, is priced QR150 per person. GO: Call 4004 4052 or WhatsApp 3070 1295 for more information or to make a booking. 82

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DUSIT HOTEL & SUITES DOHA Tropicana 360 Check out the brunch offering at this rooftop bar, a modern, chic restaurant on the 48th floor with indoor and outdoor seating. You’ll enjoy the best views of the city along with great live entertainment. Offer runs on Fridays from 1pm to 4.30pm, priced QR248 per person, with soft drinks, QR369 with house beverages. GO: Call 3082 0469 for more information or to make a booking.

DINING DEALS •

FAIRMONT DOHA

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA

Dôme Experience the new ‘Around the World’ Afternoon Tea where you’ll embark on an extraordinary culinary odyssey as you travel the globe through a symphony of delicate bites paired with an exclusive collection of refined tea blends including Moroccan Mint, Masala Chai, Matcha, Iced Tea and the timeless Darjeeling. Offer runs daily from 2pm to 9pm, priced QR275 per stand including two hot drinks. GO: Call 4030 7200 or email dining.doha@fairmont.com for more information or to make a booking.

The Cellar Get a taste of Spain as you choose from the three different flavoured paellas – paella negra, paella de mariscos or paella de pollo – and enjoy two hours of unlimited Spanish drinks. Offer runs Saturday to Thursday, from 12pm to 6pm, priced QR175 for one paella pan and two hours of unlimited drinks. You’ll need to use the code Paella. GO: Call 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806 for more information or to make a booking.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Belgian Café With its authentic and warm interior, and an extensive terrace offering views over the ocean and the Doha skyline, the world’s largest Belgian Café is the perfect place to experience uncomplicated cosiness after a long day. Head down for the Belgian Weekend Roast where you’ll find a selection of succulent roasts and Happy Hour on draught hops and house grapes. Offer runs on Fridays and Saturdays, from 12.30pm to 6pm, priced QR125 for one QR230 for two. GO: Call 4484 4919 for more information or to make a booking.

Provok Immerse yourself in the richness of the Lunar Year celebration with a sumptuous Year of the Dragon Brunch. Delight in an array of Asian dishes carefully curated by Chef Taimoo Sun, while elevating your experience with specially crafted Asian-inspired beverages. The celebration also features a DJ and electric violinist. Offer runs on February 9 from 12pm to 4pm, priced QR388 per person with soft drinks, QR488 with enhanced beverages and QR600 with premium beverages. GO: Call 4030 7200 or email dining.doha@fairmont.com for more information or to make a booking.

FOUR SEAONS HOTEL DOHA Library Lounge For an extraordinary caviar experience, indulge in the exclusive extended CaviHour menu available throughout the night. Immerse yourself in the elegant ambience and let them elevate your dining experience to new heights. Offer runs daily from 5pm to 2am, priced QR795 per set for UGA Caviar – Iranian imperial Beluga 30g. There’s also a discounted beverages menu. GO: Call 4494 8888 for more information or to make a booking.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA La Mar Get ready for a Peruvian culinary celebration with Noche Criolla, a new series by La Mar Doha offering different Peruvian cuisines featured in a special menu. For one night a month, dine on an exclusive menu dedicated to the art of Criollo cuisine in Peru. Paired with live music and more, a wonderful evening awaits. Offer runs on February 29 from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR225 for two for the set menu with welcome drinks and soft drinks. GO: Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

Elements Enjoy the new hybrid lunch at Elements. Savour your favourite international dishes from the new diverse international buffet including appetisers and a salad bar, then choose a main course freshly prepared from the delicious à la carte menu. Offer runs daily from 12.30pm to 3pm, priced QR150 for food only. GO: Call 4494 8888 for more information or to make a booking.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Choices Book three and pay for two at Choices Seafood Night. Savour the flavours of the ocean with a buffet featuring the freshest catch of the day, from succulent lobsters to plump oysters, juicy prawns and other mouth-watering seafood. Choose from grilled, baked, fried or steamed at the live cooking station. Offer runs on Thursdays from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, priced QR255 with soft drinks, pay QR130 for unlimited selected beverages. GO: Call 4141 1255 for more information or to make a booking. fact magazine

• DINING DEALS invites you to savour the soulful flavours of Italy. From the sun-kissed coastline of Sicily to the heartwarming dishes of Emilia-Romagna, each plate is a canvas painting a diverse and enchanting Italian journey. Offer runs daily from 5pm to 10pm, priced QR175 per person for the five-course menu. GO: Call 4141 6000, WhatsApp 3100 3370 or email dohmd. fbreservation@lemeridien.com for more information or to make a booking.

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN DOHA Yedi by Chef Esat Immerse yourself in the captivating ambience of the enchanting Turkish coastal town of Bodrum without leaving Qatar, savouring authentic kebabs, fresh seafood and a variety of mezze while enjoying live entertainment, and don't forget to unlock a 2-for-1 voucher when you dine in using the MoreCravings app. Offer runs on Thursdays from 7pm to 11pm, priced QR175 per person. GO: Call 4141 6000, WhatsApp 3100 3370 or email dohmd. fbreservation@lemeridien.com for more information or to make a booking.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTER, DOHA Caza Enjoy an immersive experience worth sharing with your loved ones. Join the Tajine Thursdays at Caza, where a special menu has been created for you to embrace the authentic flavours of Morocco. Offer runs Thursdays from 6pm to 12am, priced QR85 for the Tajine menu. GO: Call 40413333 or WhatsApp 5077 6821 for more information or to make a booking.

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTER, DOHA La Gourmandise Why not make breakfast a relaxing affair? Take a well-deserved break and catch up with your girls at the Ladies’ Brekkie at La Gourmandise. Delight in the breakfast buffet and pool access now at a special rate for all female residents. Offer runs daily from 6.30am to 10.30am, priced QR75. GO: Call 40413333 or WhatsApp 5077 6821 for more information or to make a booking.

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN DOHA ADRIFT Anda Embark on a sensory adventure as Chef Christhian Serraino 84

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Liang Liang joyfully celebrates the Year of the Dragon with an enticing menu. Indulge in a feast featuring the Louhei Salad, also known as ‘Lucky Food’ in Chinese culture, symbolising good fortune for a prosperous year. Choose from the à la carte menu or enjoy the Blooming Prosperity six-course feast. Offer runs February 7 to 24, from 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm Sunday to Thursday, and from 6pm to 10pm Friday and Saturday. The six-course menu is priced QR488 per person, minimum of two guests. GO: Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a booking.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Mosaic Head down for the Master Cuts experience where the nine live cooking stations will each present specialities with premium beef cuts highlighted in each dish. The menu includes Australian Wagyu beef roll, carpaccio, char-grilled Black Angus tenderloin and more. The menu is paired with a mocktail and mixed drink selection. Offer runs daily until February 29, from 12pm to 11pm, priced from QR280 per person. GO: Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a booking.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL New York Steakhouse Sink your teeth into a whopping 1.5kg USDA Prime Angus Tomahawk ribeye steak accompanied with a choice of sides, NYSH legendary sauces and soulful jazz tunes – a perfect midweek culinary match. Offer runs on Tuesdays from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR645 for up to three diners with soft drinks, QR695 for up to three diners with a bottle of grape. GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a booking.

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• DINING DEALS

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA

Quick Bites Is there anything more indulgent at the weekend than enjoying a long and lazy brunch? Take your time to explore Quick Bites’ exciting, all-day new brunch menu. There’s an enticing bakery basket with artisan breads to sample alongside the chef’s signature breakfast options such as classic Eggs Benedict, pancakes, crepes and more. Offer runs on Fridays and Saturdays, from 8am to 3.30pm, priced QR145 for two guests sharing, including your choice of two drinks. GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a booking.

Ruby Wu’s Bring out the dragon in you! Indulge in an authentic Chinese culinary set menu as you welcome the Lunar New Year. Offer runs from February 10 to 17 (closed Tuesdays), from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR269 per person. GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a booking.

MONDRIAN DOHA Hudson Tavern Get your pals together and elevate your brunch game with all your Mondrian favourites and a side of fresh air at the outdoor brunch. Offer runs on Fridays from 2pm to 5pm, priced QR295 with soft drinks, QR425 for the Enhanced Package and QR465 for the Sparkling Package, GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a booking.

MONDRIAN DOHA Morimoto Morimoto Kai Tai is back offering the chance to experience the exclusive tuna cutting with Chef Kotaro and indulge in unique Japanese flavours. The event is on February 29 and is priced à la carte with special offers on fresh tuna dishes. GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a booking.

PARK HYATT DOHA Sora Head to the Sky Brunch on the 21st floor for a delectable selection of favourites with a Japanese twist. Offer runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR329 with soft drinks, QR449 with grape and brews and QR489 including bubbles. GO: Call 4009 4344 or 31587941 for more information or to make a booking.

PARK HYATT DOHA Opus Check out the Executive Eats at Opus and elevate your Business Lunch experience with the three-course set menu. Offer runs from Sunday to Thursday, 12.30pm to 2.30pm, priced QR90 per person. GO: Call 4009 4344 or 3158 7940 for more information or to make a booking.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA Bombay Balti Head down for the Roti Boti and Biryani experience and spice up your night with kebab and roti served with biryani. Offer runs February 15 to 29 (closed Sundays), from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR99 per person. GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a booking. 86

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RAFFLES DOHA Alba by Enrico Crippa Elevate your dining experience with the special four-hands dinner featuring Top Chef Middle East & North Africa winner Ali Ghzawi and Alba’s Head Chef Antonino D’Alessio. Head down for either brunch or dinner and relish a diverse menu where Middle Eastern and Italian flavours converge in a harmonious celebration of taste. Offer runs on February 9, from 12pm to 4pm for brunch and 7pm to 11pm for dinner. Also, on February 10 from 7pm to 11pm. Brunch starts from QR350 with soft drinks and the four-course dinner costs QR490. GO: Call 4030 7100 or email dining.doha@raffles.com for more information or to make a booking.

RAFFLES DOHA L’Artisan Distinguished by its theatrical ‘served and finished at the table’ presentations, L’Artisan’s brunch features an enticing spread of freshly baked delights and sweet and savoury mains, all made with the freshest seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Offer runs on Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm, priced QR330 with soft drinks, QR390 with special beverages and QR590 with premium beverages. GO: Call 4030 7100 or email dining.doha@raffles.com for more information or to make a booking.

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• DINING DEALS

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Al Hubara Indulge at Al Hubara with the extensive seafood selection ranging from lobsters and tiger prawns to oysters and mussels. Don’t miss the enormous king crab legs that will satisfy your seafood cravings. Offer runs on Wednesdays from 7pm to 11.30pm, priced QR350 per person. GO: Call 4485 3000 for more information or to make a booking.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Atrium Lounge Embark on a gastronomic journey with the new Moroccan Breakfast. Indulge in the rich flavours and vibrant aromas of this culinary experience – a perfect blend of elegance, flavour and cultural richness to start your day on a truly exceptional note. Offer runs daily from 8am to 1pm, priced QR175 for two guests. GO: Call 4485 3000 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA b-lounge Frozé Brunch If you fancy a tasty brunch in an exceptional setting, try Frozé Brunch, a mix of Asian flavours served with special drinks. Offer runs on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, priced QR350 with soft drinks, 88

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QR495 for the Enhanced Package and QR595 for the Premium Enhanced Package, GO: Call 5080 4421 or email reservations@bloungedoha.com for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA STK Doha Le Petit Chef is a fun, immersive dining experience with 3D visuals played out in the STK private dining room. This will be popular with kids both young and not so young. Offer runs daily in one-hour slots starting at 6pm, priced QR450 per person for the Le Petit Chef Menu, QR390 for the vegetarian menu and QR300 for the kids’ menu. GO: Call 4484 8588 or 6655 2429 or email reservations@stkdoha.com for more information or to make a booking.

THE ST. REGIS MARSA ARABIA, THE PEARL - QATAR Chotto Matte A Peruvian-Japanese restaurant that’s sophisticated but with an edge and loved by those who seek fun, experience, adventure and a sense of being at the heart of where it’s at. Head there for the Tokyo Drift Brunch which promises great food and live entertainment. Offer runs on Fridays from 1pm to 5pm, priced QR325 for the Soft Package, QR450 for the Enhanced Package, QR550 for the Premium Package. GO: Call 4020 4450 or WhatsApp 5996 5234 for more information or to make a booking.

Sky Dining & Lounge,

At the higheSt terrAce of DohA Located on the 48th floor Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha in West Bay +974 3082 0469 @tropicana360.doha

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• DINING DEALS 5pm to 7pm, priced QR120 per person. GO: Call 4453 5135 or WhatsApp 7794 3975 for more information or to make a booking.

W DOHA Spice Market Get ready to celebrate Chinese New Year with the exclusive Dragon Brunch Edition. Expect great food alongside live performances by the talented Lexter and the resident DJ spinning the latest tunes. Offer runs on February 9 from 12pm to 4pm, priced from QR350 per person. GO: Call 4453 5135 or WhatsApp 7794 3975 for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA WEST BAY

THE ST. REGIS MARSA ARABIA, THE PEARL - QATAR Roberto’s Doha A unique Italian concept featuring luxury dining with live music and unique activations accompanied by world-class mixology, exquisite food and unmatched service. Il Circo Brunch runs on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, priced QR350 for the Soft Beverage Package, QR450 for the Enhanced Beverage Package and QR790 for the Enhanced Package plus premium bubbles. GO: Call 4020 4460 for more information or to make a booking.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Sabai Thai Celebrate new beginnings and cherished traditions with the Year of the Dragon Asian brunch featuring an enhanced Chinese station. Indulge in a culinary journey to Asia through a selection of authentic flavours. Offer runs February 10 and 17, from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR248 per person for the Soft Beverage Package and QR375 for the Enhanced Beverage Package. GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a booking.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Seasonal Tastes The Bubbalicious Brunch goes to Bridgerton for this month’s themed outing featuring a delicious menu and live entertainment. Offer runs on February 9, from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR360 per person for the Soft Beverage Package and QR480 for the Enhanced Package. Kids under 12 not permitted. GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a booking.

W DOHA Market by Jean-Georges Head to the Supper Club to enjoy a delicious three-course, post work dinner, crafted with culinary inspiration from the greatest classics of Jean-Georges. Offer runs daily except Fridays, from 90

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Peacock Alley Indulge in Breakfast at Tiffany's at Peacock Alley, inspired by the iconic Waldorf Astoria in New York frequented by Hollywood luminaries. This sophisticated venue offers a set menu breakfast experience amidst the grandeur of a modern atrium and live piano melodies. Offer runs on Saturdays from 7am to 11am, priced QR85 for the breakfast set menu with coffee, tea and fresh juice. GO: Call 4008 9000 or WhatsApp 5102 9105 for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA WEST BAY Tribeca Market Discovery Nights at Tribeca Market is a culinary exploration that unravels the hidden treasures of Chinese cuisine on Mondays, presenting three courses served family-style, featuring authentic and secret recipes passed down through generations. While Wednesdays offer an expedition into the vibrant flavours of South American and Latin cuisine. Offer runs on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR190 per person. GO: Call 4008 9000 or WhatsApp 5102 9105 for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA LUSAIL Bywater Doha Enjoy a barbecue night with a Texas twist! From sizzling live stations to a hearty spread of down-home Texan BBQ, savour the finest Southern flavours. Offer runs on Thursdays from 7pm onwards, priced QR220, pay an additional QR190 for unlimited enhanced beverages. GO: Call 4456 5770 or 4456 5772 for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA LUSAIL SUSHISAMBA Doha Experience one of the best brunches in town! Immerse yourself in vibrant flavours from a sharing-style menu plus handcrafted beverages and groove to live performances and samba music. Offer runs on Fridays from 12pm to 4pm, priced QR375 for the Soft Package and QR500 for the Enhanced Package. GO: Call 4456 5777 for more information or to make a booking.

GET TO KNOW US

OPENING HOURS SUN - WED : 7AM TO 11PM OPENING HOURS

GET TO KNOW US

THU FRI- :WED 7AM :TO MIDNIGHT SUN 7AM TO 11PM THU FRI : 7AM TO MIDNIGHT

FIND US IN MUAITHER WEST BAY HOTEL | MALL OF QATAR FIND US| QABILA IN fact magazine 91

WE’RE BACK WITH THE VOTING FOR OUR ANNUAL FACT DINING AWARDS QATAR 2024 – READ ON FOR THE NOMINATIONS.

HOW IT WORKS:

l 55 Categories with 750-plus nominations. l Each category has two winners – a BEST and a FAVOURITE, apart from Chef of The Year, which has one winner and is awarded purely on public votes. l The BEST is decided by a panel of anonymous judges made up of industry experts, reputed bloggers and the FACT Qatar team.

l The FAVOURITE is chosen through online public voting. l A gala awards ceremony is set to take place in May 2024 in Doha, where we will announce the winners. l 110 category awards will be given out on the night, chosen from hundreds of nominated venues, as well as the overall BEST and FAVOURITE. l FACT Dining Awards is part of a wider initiative by FACT M.E. with annual ceremonies across the region.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE NOMINEES! VOTE NOW ON WWW.FACTQATAR.COM 92

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FACT DINING AWARDS •

NEW IN TOWN

• Botanical Garden — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia - The Pearl, All Suite Hotel • Crome London — Doha Old Doha Port • Dar Yema Restaurant — Printemps Doha • Fig & Olive — Al Hazm Mall • Jardin — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • Le Deli Robuchon — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Mosavali — Printemps Doha • Mudakkan Barbecue — Msheireb Downtown, Doha • Rosto — Al Hazm Mall • Rubix — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Sawa Restaurant – Sanad Doha • Seaside Restaurant — The Pearl-Qatar • The Cortland Bar — Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay • The Engine Room — The St. Regis Doha • Tribeca Market — Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay • Tulum — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Viva La Vida — Al Maha Island

DINING DELIGHTS Al Fresco Dining

• Ahwet Zeitouna — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Al Borj — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • Al Nafourah Garden — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Al Sayyad Restaurant — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • Al Terrace — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels • Aqua Lounge — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Aqua Urban Deck — Raffles Doha • Butcha Steakhouse — Al Hazm Mall • Carbone — Al Maha Island • Jarnen — Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar • La Mar Beach — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • La Mesa — Doha • Le Jardin Du Vendôme — Le Royal Méridien Doha • Lucia’s Doha — Qatar • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Twisted Olive — Burj Doha Tower, Qatar

All Day Dining

• Ahwet Zeitouna — The St. Regis Marsa

Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Aizoon Restaurant — Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som • Al Liwan Restaurant — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Al Sufra — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Avenue — Pullman Doha West Bay • Bywater — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Coral — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Crossroads Kitchen — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Deli Kitchen — Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha • Em Sherif Café Qatar — Millennium Hotel Doha • Market By Jean-Georges — W Doha • Qinwan Cafe – Msheireb Downtown, Doha • Sazeli Qatar — The Pearl • Seasonal Tastes — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Smat — Doha Corniche • The Oat House — Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences • The Restaurant — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • The Square — InterContinental Doha The City

Breakfast

• Al Baraha — Al Najada Doha Hotel • Anis — Park Hyatt Doha • Baladna — Medina Centrale • Deli Kitchen — Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha • Em Sherif Café Qatar – Millennium Hotel Doha • Gahwetna — The Pearl-Qatar • HuqqA — Al Gassar, Doha • Hyde Park Coffee Shop — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • IZU — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • La Gourmandise — Le Méridien City Center, Doha • La Marsa — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • La Piazza — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel • Mondrian Bistro — Mondrian Doha • Parisian Breakfast – Sel & Miel — The Ritz Carlton, Doha • Seasonal Tastes — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Sridan — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

• Souk Kitchen — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • The Kitchen — Hilton Doha The Pearl • Twisted Olive — Burj Doha Tower, Qatar • Vaya! — Fairmont Doha

Casual Dining

• ADRIFT Anda — Le Royal Méridien Doha • Al Matbakh — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel • Astor Grill — The St. Regis Doha • Crazy Pizza — Printemps Doha • Damasca One Restaurant — Souq Waqif, Qatar • Farmhouse — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • IZU — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • Jiwan Restaurant — National Museum of Qatar • Maia Lounge — Various Locations • Ruby Wu’s — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Seasonal Tastes — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Sirocco Restaurant — Holiday Inn Doha - The Business Park • Sushi Library — Various Locations • Thai Kitchen Restaurant & Bar — Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha • The Cellar — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • The Italian Job — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • The Rider — Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton • Usta Turkish Kepab & Doner — Various Locations • Twisted Olive — Burj Doha Tower, Qatar

Family-Friendly

• Al Liwan Restaurant — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Arabesque — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Choices — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Farmhouse — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Fuego — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • Gahwetna — The Pearl-Qatar • Lagoon — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • Opus — Park Hyatt Doha • Orient Pearl — Doha Corniche • Planet Hollywood Doha — Doha Oasis • Public House — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha • Russo’s Pizza — Printemps Doha fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

• Santa Monica Breakfast Club — Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas • Spontini – The Pearl Island, Qatar • The Italian Job — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • The Rider — Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton • Twisted Olive — Burj Doha • Yasmine Palace — The Pearl-Qatar

Green & Clean

• Al-Sidr — Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som • Après Spa Café — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Dieture — Doha • Evergreen Organics — Various Locations • Junction — Pullman Doha West Bay • Quick Bites — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Wild & The Moon — Printemps Doha • Wyld Earth — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha

• Maya — Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha • Noir — Various Locations • Sasso —Various Locations • Parisa — Souq Waqif, Qatar • Rosemary Café — Al Hazm Mall • Tahitian Village — Hilton Doha • The Curry House — InterContinental Doha The City • TONO — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Yasmine Palace – The Pearl-Qatar

Theme Night

• Basta — Mall of Qatar • Dar Al Karam — Al Hazm, Qatar • Debs W Remman — Various Locations • Divan — Mall of Qatar • Eataly — Doha Festival City • Han Shi Fu — Mall of Qatar • Lily House — Mall of Qatar • Jamie’s Italian — Doha Festival City • Jwala — Mall of Qatar • Maia Lounge — Mall of Qatar • Mezzo — AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton Mall of Qatar • Rosemary — Al Hazm Mall • Sazeli Qatar — Mall of Qatar • Vapiano — The Gate Mall • Yasmine Palace — Place Vendôme Mall

• Al Baraha — Al Najada Doha Hotel • Avenue — Pullman Doha West Bay • Bagatelle Beach Club Doha — Al Maha Island • Butcha Steakhouse — Al Hazm Mall • Candle Night — Zengo, Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha • Choices — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Coral — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Elements — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Maya — Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha • Monkey Tale — Grand Hyatt Doha • Qalamkarri — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • Roberto’s Doha — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Seafood Night at Al Liwan Restaurant — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • The Restaurant BBQ Night — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • The Square — InterContinental Doha The City • Vine-BBQ Night — The St. Regis Doha • Wahm — W Doha • Yedi by Chef Esat — Le Royal Méridien Doha

Instagrammable

AFTERNOON GALORE

In-Mall

• Dôme Lounge — Fairmont Doha • EllaMia — Mondrian Doha • EL&N — Various Locations • FIKO — Msheireb • IDAM by Alain Ducasse — Museum of Islamic Art, Doha • Kai’s Songbird — Doha • La Marsa — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • Maia Lounge — Mall of Qatar • Manos — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel 94

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Afternoon Tea

• Antoinette’s — Dusit Doha Hotel • Al Jalsa Café and Lobby Lounge — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz Carlton Hotel • Atrium Lounge — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Café Pouchkine — Galleries Lafayette • Corinthia Yacht Club Lobby Lounge — Doha • Crust — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • EllaMia — Mondrian Doha

• La Maison Martinez — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • La Parisienne — InterContinental Doha The City • Le Blanc Afternoon Tea — The Chedi Katata Hotel and Resort, Doha • Malaki — Raffles Doha • Mandarin Lounge — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • Members Lounge — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • Nesma Lobby Lounge — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • Peacock Alley — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Pontoon Tea Experience (Floating Afternoon Tea) — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Sarab Lounge – The Royal Afternoon Tea — The St. Regis Doha • Zoufa Restaurant — Al Samriya, Doha, Autograph Collection

Business Lunch

• Al Sultan Brahim — Doha • Benjarong — Dusit Doha Hotel • Cila Restaurant — Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery • COYA Doha — W Doha • Fuego — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • IKA South American — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Jamavar Doha — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Jwala — Various Locations • L’Artisan — Raffles Doha • LPM Restaurant & Bar — Al Maha Island • Market by Jean-Georges — W Doha • Mondrian Bistro — Mondrian Doha • Qalamkarri — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • Sabai Thai — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • STK Doha — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • The Asian Kitchen — InterContinental Doha The City • The Cellar — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Vaya! — Fairmont Doha

Family-Friendly Brunch

• Al Hubara Restaurant — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Avenue — Pullman Doha West Bay • Café #999 — Fire Station, Doha

FACT DINING AWARDS •

• Coral — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Debs W Remman — The Pearl-Qatar • Deli Kitchen — Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha • Jiwan Restaurant — National Museum of Qatar • La Marsa — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • Qureshi Bukhara — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Saturday Farmers Brunch at Lagoon — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • Spice Market Friday Brunch — W Doha • The Square — InterContinental Doha The City • Twisted Olive — Burj Doha Tower, Qatar • Yedi by Chef Esat — Le Royal Méridien Doha

• Elements — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Emshoot — Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar • Inca Evening Brunch at COYA — W Doha • Ipanema — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Latino BBQ @ IKA South American — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra — Fairmont Doha • Mykonos — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Nozomi — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha • Paper Moon Doha — Jaidah Square, Qatar • Saffron — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb

Friday Brunch

• Akte Pier 51 — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Beefbar — Al Maha Island • BiCE — Pullman Doha West Bay • Bubbalicious Brunch at Seasonal Tastes — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Curiosa by Jean-Georges — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Iris Brunch at Iris Doha — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Manos — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Orient Pearl — Doha Corniche • Provok — Fairmont Doha • SUSHISAMBA Doha — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha

• Alba by Enrico Crippa — Raffles Doha • Aloha Brunch at Q Lounge — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Brunch to the Beat – Broadway Brasserie — DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd • COYA Vamos de Fiestas Brunch — W Doha • Frozé Brunch – B-Lounge — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • IKA South American — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Jamavar Doha — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Jarnen — Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar • Kai's Songbird — Doha • La Mar — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Lucia’s Doha — Qatar • Nobu — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • OPA Doha — The St. Regis Doha • Patio by Walima — Mondrian Doha • Sarab Terrace - St. Regis Grand Brunch — The St. Regis Doha • Shirvan Metisse Doha — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Spice Market Friday Brunch — W Doha

Saturday Brunch

• Asian Brunch at Sabai Thai — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Bagatelle Beach Club — Al Maha Island • Benjarong — Dusit Doha Hotel

Social Brunch

GLOBAL CUISINES Chinese

• Han Shi Fu — Mall of Qatar • Hakkasan — The St. Regis Doha • Kai’s Songbird — Doha • Liang — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • Miss Wong — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • Ruby Wu’s — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Shanghai Me — Al Dafna, Doha

European

• Bagatelle Beach Club — Al Maha Island • Bentley’s Grill — Radisson Blu Hottel, Doha • BiBo — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha

• BiCE — Pullman Doha West Bay • IDAM by Alain Ducasse — Museum of Islamic Art, Doha • L’Artisan — Raffles Doha • La Serre — DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown • Le Train Bleu — Al Hazm Mall • LPM Restaurant & Bar — Al Maha Island • Market By Jean-Georges — W Doha • Mykonos — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • The Italian Job — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

Greek

•&deli — City Center Doha Mall • ERGON Qatar — Al Abraj Park, Fasht Al Hool • GAIA — W Beach, West Bay • Manos — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Mykonos — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • OPA Doha — The St. Regis Doha

Indian Casual Dining

• Bombay Balti — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Chingari — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Jwala — Various Locations • Q Lounge — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Qureshi Bukhara — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Rasa — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Saffron Lounge — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • The Curry House — InterContinental Doha The City

Indian Fine Dining

• Dalchini Restaurant & Bar — Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha • Gymkhana Doha — Katara Hills, Doha • Iksha 360 — The Pearl-Qatar • Jamavar Doha — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra — Fairmont Doha • Qalamkarri — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • RIVAAJ — The St. Regis Doha fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

International

• Al Hubara Restaurant — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Al Mandaloun Waterfront — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, AllSuite Hotel • Aramede — Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park • Avenue — Pullman Doha West Bay • Boho Social Restaurant & Café Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Choices — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Elements — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Farmhouse — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Inginuity — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Iris Doha — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • La Casa Twenty Eight — The PearlQatar • Mosaic — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Qinwan Cafe — Msheireb Downtown, Doha • SUSHISAMBA Doha — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha

Italian Casual Dining

• ADRIFT Anda — Le Royal Méridien Doha • BiCE — Pullman Doha West Bay • Café #999 — Fire Station, Doha • Cicchetti — Al Barahat-Msheireb • Crazy Pizza — Printemps Doha • Cucina — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Dante Cucina Italiana — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • Di Capri — La Cigale Hotel, Doha • Jamie’s Italian — Doha Festival City • Juno — West Walk • le Vesuvio — Dahwa, Doha • Paper Moon Doha — Jaidah Square, Qatar • Pasta Fresca — Element City Center Doha • Rossopomodoro — Al Maha Island • Sprezzi — Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences • The Italian Job — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Trapani — Msheireb, Downtown • Vapiano — Various Locations 96

fact magazine

Italian Fine Dining

• Alba by Enrico Crippa — Raffles Doha • Carbone — Al Maha Island • Cecconi’s — The Ned Doha • Cipriani Doha — West Bay • II Galante — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • La Spiga by Papermoon — W Doha • Lucia’s Doha — Qatar • Robeto’s Doha — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Sasso — Various Locations • Scalini Doha — The St. Regis Doha • Scarpetta — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Signor Sassi — Al Hazm, Qatar • Twiga — Printemps Doha

Japanese

• Morimoto Doha — Mondrian Doha • Ninja Ramen Restaurant — Al Mana Hotel, Doha • Nobu — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Nozomi Doha — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Sora — Park Hyatt Doha • Sumosan — Msheireb, Doha • Sushi Library — Various Locations • Sushi On — Hilton Doha • TONO — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Yen Sushi Bar — La Cigale Hotel, Doha • Yotto — West Bay • Zuma Doha — Al Maha Island

Latin American

• Chotto Matte — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • COYA — W Doha • Curiosa by Jean-Georges — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • El Cedro — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Fuego — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • IKA South American — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Ipanema — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Isla Mexican Kitchen — The Pearl Island, Qatar • La Bodega Negra — St. Regis Doha • La Mar — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • La Mesa — Doha

• Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria — Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park • TONO — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Toro Toro — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl -Doha • Vaya! — Fairmont Doha

Lebanese Casual Dining

• Al Jalsa Lounge — InterContinental Doha The City • Al Mandaloun Waterfront — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, AllSuite Hotel • Al Nafourah Garden — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Al Sayyad — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • Antika — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Arabesque — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Bayt El Talleh Restaurant — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Bebabel Qatar — St. Regis Doha • Debs W Remman — Various Locations • Em Sherif Café Qatar — Millennium Hotel Doha • Shisha Garden — La Cigale Hotel, Doha • The Mezze House — Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha • Zoufa Restaurant — Al Samriya, Doha, Autograph Collection

Lebanese Fine Dining

• Al Nahham — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Al Sultan Brahim — Doha • Babel Qatar — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Burj Al-Hamam — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Dar Al Karam — Al Hazm, Qatar • Em Sherif — Al Maha Island

Mediterranean

• Akte Pier 51 — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Al Mandaloun Waterfront — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, AllSuite Hotel • Aqua Urban Deck — Raffles Doha • ARGAN — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels • IZU — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • La Casa Twenty Eight — The PearlQatar • La Marsa — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • Levantine — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

FACT DINING AWARDS •

• Lobito De Mar — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Makani Beach Club — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Mondrian Bistro — Mondrian Doha • Mykonos — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Riva — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

Middle Eastern

• Al Liwan Restaurant — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Al Sufra — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha • Al Nafourah Garden — Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • Al Sultan Brahim — Doha • Basta Qatar — Lusail Boulevard • Cila Restaurant — Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery • Damasca One Restaurant — Souq Waqif, Qatar • Debs W Remman — Various Locations • Divan — Various Locations • Feeh Al Aafia — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Jiwan Restaurant — National Museum of Qatar • Levantine — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • Mamig Armenian & Lebanese Restaurant – Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Orient Pearl — Doha Cornich • Smat — Doha Corniche • Waka Terrace — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Yasmine Palace – The Pearl-Qatar

Pan-Asian

• Beefbar — Al Maha Island • B-Lounge Doha — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • Han Shi Fu — Mall of Qatar • Kaia — The Ned Doha • Novikov Doha — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Provok — Fairmont Doha • Shanghai Me — Al Dafna, Doha • Spice Market — W Doha • The Asian Kitchen — InterContinental Doha The City • Zengo Doha — Kempinski Residences and Suites, Doha

Thai

• Benjarong — Dusit Doha Hotel • Busaba Bangkok Thai — Mirqab Mall, Qatar • Isaan — Grand Hyatt Doha • Jasmine Thai Restaurant — Souq Waqif, Qatar • Sabai Thai — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Saffron — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb

Turkish

• Agora — Aspire Zone, Qatar • FIKO — Msheireb, Doha • Hasan Kolcuoglu Restaurant — Various Locations • HuqqA — Al Gassar, Doha • Kunefe House — Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar • NAR — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Sazeli Qatar — Various Locations • Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Yedi by Chef Esat — Le Royal Méridien Doha

UNWIND Bar

• Bar Rouge — Le Méridien City Center, Doha • Blue Cigar — Raffles Doha • Brewskis and Grub — Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay • Champions Sports Bar — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Hang Loose — Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton • Hudson Tavern — Mondrian Doha • La Vista 55 — InterContinental Doha The City • Library Lounge — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Mulberry Tavern — Hilton Doha The Pearl • Orion — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Shehrazad Lounge Bar & Terrace — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Streat Culture — DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd • Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites • The Den — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • Vertigo Doha — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb

Café

• AtTEAtude Lounge — Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery • Café #999 — Fire Station, Doha • Café Murano — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Canela Café — Al Najada Hotel Doha • Chac’Late — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Cova — Printemps Doha • Desert Rose — National Museum Qatar • Flat White Specialty Coffee — Various Locations • La Maison Martinez — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • MIA Café — Doha • Qinwan Cafe — Msheireb Downtown, Doha • The Pearl Godiva Café — Qatar • W CAFÉ — W Doha

Coffee House

• Blackout Specialty Coffee — West Walk • Chocolate Jar — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Juan Valdez — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Karaki Lounge — Various Locations • La Parisienne — InterContinental Doha The City • Maia Coffee & Chocolate — The Pearl-Qatar • Moka Caffe — Various Locations • Noir — Various Locations • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Quick Bites — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • The Junction — Pullman Doha West Bay

Lounge

• Acoustic Music Penthouse — Raffles Doha • Akte Pier 51 — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Aqua Lounge — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Atrium Lounge — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Chotto Matte — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • El Cedro — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Elixir — Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha • Hang Loose — Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

• Inca Lounge by COYA — W Doha • Lobby Lounge — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Manhattan — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Manko Doha — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Mix Lounge & Terrace — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Patio By Walima — Mondrian Doha • Sailors Lounge — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • SAX Qatar — The St. Regis Doha • Smoke & Mirrors — Mondrian Doha • The Barn — The St.Regis Doha • The Stage — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha

Night Out

• Curiosa by Jean-Georges — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Hide — Doha • Irish Harp — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Isla Mexican Kitchen — The Pearl Island, Qatar • La Vista 55 — InterContinental Doha The City • Manko — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • NYX — W Beach, West Bay, Doha • OPA Doha — St. Regis Doha • Patio By Walima — Mondrian Doha • Qube — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Roberto’s Doha — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • SAX Qatar — The St. Regis Doha • Sailors Lounge — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel 600 to here • Society — Hilton West Bay, Doha • The Highmore — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • TONO — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Vertigo — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb

Outdoor Bar

• Antika — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Bagatelle Beach Club — Al Maha Island 500 to here • Beefbar — Al Maha Island • Belgian Café — InterContinental 98

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Doha Beach & Spa • Echo Pool Café — Pullman Doha West Bay • Iris Doha — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • La Bodega Negra — The St. Regis Doha • Makani Beach Club — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Oyster Bay — The St. Regis Doha • The Secret Garden — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Wahm — W Doha

Resort & Convention Hotel • La Liga Twenty Nine's — Kempinski Residence & Suites Doha • La Vista 55 — InterContinental Doha The City • Public House — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha • Shehrazad Lounge Bar & Terrace — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Streat Culture — DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd • The League — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • The Score — Pullman Doha West Bay

Pool Side

Sheesha Lounge

• Al Borj — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • Al Mandaloun Waterfront — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, AllSuite Hotel • Al Seef Poolside Bar — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Aqua Urban Deck — Raffles Doha • Bagatelle Beach Club — Al Maha Island • BluTerrace — DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Al Sadd • Echo Pool Café — Pullman Doha West Bay • O’Glacée Restaurant Bar — Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery • Pool Café — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Pool Terrace — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Pool Deck — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • South Bay — Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas • The Restaurant — The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha • Wahm — W Doha • Zoh Lifestyle Deck — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Zoufa Restaurant — Al Samriya, Doha, Autograph Collection

Pub

• Belgian Café — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Brewskis and Grub — Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay • Champions Sports Bar — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • GlenHouse — Somerset Westbay, Doha • Hudson Tavern — Mondrian Doha • Irish Harp — Sheraton Grand Doha

• Al Jalsa Lounge — InterContinental Doha The City • Al Shurfa — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel • Arguelina Lounge — Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park • Asilah — Abesq Doha Hotel and Residences • HuqqA — Al Gassar, Doha • Karaki Lounge — Various Locations • Laya Café — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Maia Lounge — Mall of Qatar • Markhan — Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar • Orient Pearl — Doha Corniche • Patio By Walima — Mondrian Doha • Sazeli Lounge — Qatar • Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Waka Terrace — Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Waves Pool Bar — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Zoh Lifestyle Deck — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha

She’s Out

• Bagatelle Beach Club — Al Maha Island • Curiosa by Jean-Georges — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Heels & Tinis at Iris Doha — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Malibu Kitchen – The Ned Doha • Manko — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Nobu — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Patio By Walima — Mondrian Doha • The Highmore — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • The Secret Garden — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • The Score — Pullman Doha West Bay

FACT DINING AWARDS •

• Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Vertigo — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • Wahm – She Shines — W Doha

Sundowners

• Al Mandaloun Waterfront — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, AllSuite Hote • Al Nahham — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Al Shurfa — Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel • Bab al Bahr — Hilton Doha • Beefbar — Al Maha Island • Carbone — Al Maha Island • Infinity Rooftop Lounge — Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery • La Mar Beach — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Lucia’s Doha — Qatar • Provok — Fairmont Doha • Qube — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Tea Time — Various Locations • The Highmore — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • The Secret Garden — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha • Tropicana 360 — Dusit Hotel & Suites – Doha • Wahm Sunset Sessions — W Doha

Tea Room

• AtTEAtude Lounge — Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery • Atrium Lounge — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Café Murano — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha • Chac’Late — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Dôme Fairmont Lounge — Fairmont Doha • Eau De Rose — Various Locations • EL&N — Various Locations • Karaki — The Pearl • Lobby Lounge — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • Moka Caffe — Various Locations • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Salon De Thé — Printemps Doha • The Junction — Pullman Doha West Bay

SWEET TOOTH Dessert Parlour

• Chac’Late — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Chocolate Jar — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Cold Stone Creamery — Various Locations • Dôme Fairmont Lounge — Fairmont Doha • EL&N — Various Locations • EllaMia — Mondrian Doha • Gelato — Mandarin Oriental, Doha • Karaki Lounge — Various Locations • La Maison Martinez — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • La Parisienne — InterContinental Doha The City • Maia Coffee & Chocolate — The Pearl-Qatar • Moka Caffe — Various Locations • Molten Chocolate Cafe — Various Locations • Ned’s Café — The Ned Doha • Novecento — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Peacock Alley — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Pierre Marcolini — Printemps Doha • Qinwan Cafe — Msheireb Downtown, Doha

CLAIM TO FAME Burger Joint

• BlackTap — Mall of Qatar • Brewskis and Grub – Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay • Burger & Lobster — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Electric Diner — The Ned Doha • Elevation Burger — Various Locations • Farmore Thn Burger — Marriott Executive Apartments City Center Doha • Hudson Tavern — Mondrian Doha • Sazeli — Various locations • Steak And The City – By Prime — InterContinental Doha The City • Stock Burger Co. Doha — Holiday Inn Doha – The Business Park • The Rider — Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton • The Score — Pullman Doha West Bay • U Burger — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar

Fusion

• IDAM by Alain Ducasse — Museum of Islamic Art, Doha • Iksha 360 — The Pearl-Qatar • Jiwan — National Museum of Qatar • Mamig Armenian & Lebanese Restaurant — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Nozomi — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Shirvan Metisse Doha — The Pearl Island, Qatar • SUSHISAMBA Doha — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • TONO — The Pearl Island, Qatar • Trader Vic’s — Hilton Doha • Twiga — Printemps Doha • Zengo Doha — Kempinski Residence & Suites, Doha

Seafood

• Al Hubara — Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • Al Nahham — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • Al Sultan Brahim — Doha • Chabrat Al Mina — Old Doha Port • La Mar — InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Lobito de Mar — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Lobster — Al Hazm Mall • L’wzaar Seafood Market — Katara Cultural Village, Qatar • Manos — The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • The Manhattan Fish Market — Various Locations

Steakhouse

• Beefbar — Al Maha Island • Bentley’s Grill — Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha • Butcha Steakhouse — Al Hazm Mall • Fuego — JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • Hunters Room & Grill — The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • Mr. Tailor Steakhouse — Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • New York Steakhouse — Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Sazeli — Various Locations • Steak And The City – By Prime — InterContinental Doha The City • STK Doha — The Ritz-Carlton, Doha fact magazine

• The St. Regis Doha • The St. Regis Marsa Arabia – The Pearl, All-Suite Hotel • The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa • W Doha • Yasmine Palace – The Pearl-Qatar

CHEF OF THE YEAR

• Toro Toro — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha

Romantic Ambience

• Alba by Enrico Crippa — Raffles Doha • Banana Island Designed Atmosphere — Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara • BBQ Donut — The Diplomatic Club, Doha • IDAM by Alain Ducasse — Museum of Islamic Art, Doha • II Galante — Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • La Mar — InterContinental Doha Beach •& Spa • La Spiga by Papermoon — W Doha • Makani Beach Club — Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Morimoto Doha — Mondrian Doha • Nozomi — Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha • Private Gazebo Dining by the Beach — Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Shanghai Me — Al Dafna, Doha • Shirvan Metisse Doha — The Pearl Island, Qatar

RAMADAN DELIGHTS Iftar & Ghabga

• Al Sultan Brahim – Doha • Avenue – Pullman Doha West Bay • Belhambar – Doha Corniche • Bywater — Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha • Coral – InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa 100 fact magazine

• Damasca One Restaurant – Souq Waqif, Qatar • Debs W Remman – Various Locations • Gulf Tent – Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • La Gourmandise – Le Méridien City Center, Doha • Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar • The Square — InterContinental Doha The City comes after Souq Al Wakra • Zoufa Restaurant – Al Samriya, Doha, Autograph Collection

Ramadan Experience

• Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton • Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa • Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb • Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Hilton Doha The Pearl • Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha • InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel • Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The PearlDoha • Orient Pearl – Doha Corniche • Park Hyatt Doha • Raffles and Fairmont Doha • Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha

• Abdelsalam Qasem – Culinary Director – Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha • Angelos Kallinteris – Executive Chef – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • Antonino D’Alessio – Head Chef – Alba by Enrico Crippa – Raffles Doha • Danish Merchant – Executive Chef – Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel • David Dahlhaus – Executive Chef – The Ritz-Carlton, Doha • Edgar Hurtado – Executive Chef – Curiosa by Jean-Georges – Four Seasons Hotel Doha • Elias Gemayel – Executive Chef – Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha • Ertan Afacan – Executive Chef – JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha • Fabio Fioravanti – Park Hyatt Doha • Frank Ponce – La Mar Doha – InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa • Jeremy Cheminade – Executive Chef – Alain Ducasse Restaurants Qatar • Konstantinos Panou – Cluster Executive Chef – Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, Al Najada Hotel, Al Najada Doha Apartments • Luigi Goytizolo – Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton and IKA South American • Mahdi Moubarak – Corporate Development Chef – Aura Group • Marcus Riot – Executive Chef Morimoto – Mondrian Doha • Mayssam Abdulkhalek – Resort Executive Wellness Chef – Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som • Mert Duran – Executive Chef – Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel • Motaz Mohammad – Executive Chef – The St. Regis Doha • Stefan Sudimac – Chef de Cuisine – Market by Jean-Georges – W Doha • Taimoo Sun – Speciality Head Chef – Provok – Fairmont Doha • Wolfgang Franz Godl – Executive Chef – Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

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• TRAVEL

Whistler Canada 102 fact magazine

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

TRAVEL •

It’s the time of year when our thoughts turn to love. And what better way to enjoy togetherness than in stunning snowy scenery where snuggling together comes so naturally. Since winter seems to have passed us by in this part of the world, it’s time to head to the slopes to turn up the heat and chill.

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• TRAVEL

YLLÄS, LAPLAND

There’s no doubt about it, in the Middle East we are most definitely children of the sun but that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate the beauty and romance of a pristine snowy landscape – as long as it’s only for a holiday! And, we can think of few things more romantic than nights in a glass igloo under an endlessly starry sky where the Northern Lights dance for our entertainment. Sounds almost too good to be true, doesn’t it? But, that’s what you get in Ylläs, Finland’s largest ski resort which boasts the country’s longest slopes and an excellent network of cross-country trails. The location of Ylläs is unique sitting between two authentic Lappish villages, giving skiers a choice of two routes to take once they leave the lift. Head one way and you will reach Äkäslompolo on the north side, go south and you will come to Ylläsjärvi. There are huts on the slopes for the all-important après ski refreshments and both villages have abundant bars and restaurants. The Glass Igloo and Aurora Cabin Excursion from inghams.co.uk offers the opportunity to sleep under thermal glass, open to the majesty of Lapland’s night sky, in a warm cosy bed. Sign us up!

Megève, France We have to admit, this is a hidden gem we’d never even heard of till we started researching this feature. Think of romantic European ski resorts and you would expect to hear about Kitzbühel or the jet-set favourites of Chamonix or Verbier. But it turns out Megève is the place to be if you like your skiing with a side of Michelin-starred food and a horse-drawn carriage ride. A great favourite with couples, ranging from 1,113m to 2,350m, Megève is a huge ski area with 235 slopes for all levels and all pleasures at the heart of the Domaine Évasion Mont-Blanc. It's 400km of secure, marked and proudly maintained slopes that guarantee exceptional skiing comfort. If you’re feeling indulgent, Megève boasts three Michelinstarred restaurants – Salt Flakes, The Alpaga Table and La Dame de Pic – Le 1920 – so, you’ll certainly not go hungry after a day on the slopes. And from rustic-chic chalets to upmarket hotels, there are plenty of places for lovers to nest. Walk hand in hand through the Mediaeval cobbled streets of the town centre and splash the cash or window shop at the many luxury boutiques and stores. Take a horse-drawn sleigh through the snowy streets to the sound of bells and hooves – don’t worry, the animals are well blanketed and wear special shoes – or browse book shops and art galleries for gorgeous mementos of your visit. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, at sunset, you can don your snowshoes and, accompanied by a guide, head to the Montagnette refuge for a gourmet dinner. Who could ask for more? 104 fact magazine

LAPLAND

TRAVEL • Salt Flakes

Whistler, Canada Known as one of North America’s most romantic and favourite ski destinations, Whistler, despite an abundance of inviting powder snow, has so much more to offer than just the slopes. Yes, you’ll have endless days of awesome skiing but the fun doesn’t stop when evening comes. There is loads to do in the twilight and under the wide-open starry skies. If you’re feeling brave, fly through the night with Ziptrek’s Winter Après Tour, which includes four separate ziplines with highest platform around 150ft above the surrounding forest floor. The slightly less adventurous can head down the mountain on a comfy tube at the Base 2 Zone on Blackcomb Mountain. The area is also well known for its superb art galleries, so make sure you bring some extra cash if you want to take home an artwork or unique jewellery piece. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the slopes, there’s no shortage of fabulous places to grab a bite, Wild Blue Restaurant Bar is said to be Michelin star worthy and Bearfoot Bistro also comes highly recommended. But, if you’re ready for a little more adventure, take a snowcat or snowmobile up the mountain for fondue at Crystal Hut, which is designated as a Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission. Yum! ✤ Megève by Mat Napo

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• ARTS & CULTURE

OF TRAVELLING AND COMING HOME We caught up with Maryam Salman, who shares her lifestyle in fashion and travel with her 44,000 followers on @maryaamsalman from her homes in Doha and Riyadh as well as her jaunts around the world.

How and why did you go from being a banker to an influencer? When did you know the time was right to quit banking? After two years in wealth management, I wanted to study for my masters and continue on the same path – finance. But, during my studies in Los Angeles, I realised that was not what I could see myself doing anymore. I always had a passion for fashion but it was something I did on the side, so I decided to make it my main career instead. I definitely feel more myself working in fashion. Your Instagram page gives your location as RiyadhDoha-San Diego – where to you call home and what makes it home? I’m half Saudi half Qatari so I have two homes. Doha is where my mum is and Riyadh is where my husband is and they both make the two cities home. I’m in San Diego temporarily for personal reasons, hopefully not for long. You regularly mention your travels with content from destinations as diverse as Berlin, Mykonos and Edinburgh. Where’s your favourite place so far and where’s next on your list? I want to visit as many counties as I can, it just makes me 106 fact magazine

so happy and enriches my creativity. I always find myself going back to Spain, specially its islands like Mallorca, it’s definitely a favourite. I want to explore East Asia more in the future. As a travel influencer, do you have any packing/safety/ general travel trips for your followers? I used to overpack all the time but I’ve gotten better since I started to plan my outfits and make an album on my phone for them, it just makes packing so much easier and lighter. For safety I usually don’t post my location until I’ve left the place. What influences your content – for example how did you come up with the concept of your bags and coffee cups series? My content is influenced by the places I visit and the outfits I come up with, I just look for aesthetics everywhere. I was in London and I saw my friend Yasmin, who is an amazing content creator, take a photo of my bag and coffee cup and I thought it looked cute so I continued doing it with the rest of my bags. Where do you see yourself in five years? Where do you hope this journey will take you? Happy, healthy, achieving my goals and a mum. ✤

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• FASHION FOCUS

WALKING IN RHYTHM British label AllSaints draws on the synergies between music and fashion for its spring-summer 2024 collection Access All Areas. 108 fact magazine

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• FASHION FOCUS n a catwalk show that transported guests to the streets of East London the brand showcased its urban style evolution, whilst pointing to the future of fashion and design. The collection looks back to the AllSaints archives with crochet, embellishments and studded leather, mixing statement pieces and effortless essentials to build the ultimate seasonal capsule wardrobe. In womenswear, Access All Areas introduces accents of hot pink, maximal fringing and floor skimming denim skirts. The brand’s elegantly waisted dresses are also back, but in new silhouettes created from surplus stock from previous seasons. AllSaints has turned up the volume for menswear with psychedelic prints and a fresh take on camouflage. Festival vibes are portrayed through distressed leathers, sun-bleached tones, authentic denim washes and band-inspired tees. For a more elevated look, the collection introduces bold sharp tailoring, textured knits and shirts and sophisticated leather silhouettes. The brand’s COO, Catherine Scorey, said: “Access All Areas is a celebration of music's profound role of shaping fashion trends and personal expression and pays homage to the subcultures and iconic artists that have shaped the fashion world today.” ✤ GO: VISIT ALLSAINTS.ME FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Ferrari Need to Know:

Ferrari is an American biographical sports drama written by Troy Kennedy Martin. During the summer of 1957, bankruptcy looms over the auto empire that Enzo Ferrari and his wife built. In an attempt to save everything, Enzo takes a massive chance and puts it all on the line at the iconic Mille Miglia, a treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy.

Director: Michael Mann Cast: Adam Driver, Penélope Cruz, Shailene Woodley, Sarah Gadon, Gabriel Leone, Jack O'Connell, Patrick Dempsey

“

A big victory at this infamously dangerous race could finally turn Ferrari’s fortunes around, but a loss could put them in the ground.”

Percy Jackson and the Olympians Need to Know:

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is an American fantasy television series airing on Disney+. A 12-year-old demigod, Percy Jackson, who’s just coming to terms with his newfound divine powers, unexpectedly finds himself accused by the Greek God Zeus of stealing his lightning bolt. He must embark on the adventure of a lifetime to find it and restore order to Olympus.

Director: Sick Riordan Cast: Walker Scobell, Leah Sava Jeffries, Aryan Simhadri

Why Is It Worth Watching?

The screenplay is inspired by Brock Yates’ book Enzo Ferrari - The Man and the Machine. A hero in Italy, Enzo Ferrari (Adam Driver), the man behind the spectacle of 1950s’ Formula 1, is struggling to maintain a grip on the industry he revolutionised. A major bankruptcy crisis is on the heels of the company that he and his wife built from nothing 10 years earlier. Concurrently, his marriage to Laura (Penélope Cruz) is on its last legs following the death of their son Dino, whom he adored. With everything seemingly falling to pieces, he decides to counter his losses by rolling the dice on one race – the iconic Mille Miglia. A big victory at this infamously dangerous race could finally turn Ferrari’s fortunes around but a loss could put them in the ground. It’s a risk he’s willing to take. Though an absolute visual spectacle, the electrifying performances by Adam Driver and Penélope Cruz are the major strong points of the film.

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Why Is It Worth Watching?

Based on the beloved book series by Rick Riordan of the same name, this latest live-action TV adaptation (there was previously a film in 2010) comes in an eight-episode first season that follows the events of The Lightning Thief — the first book of the franchise. In this longer form format, the source material has a much better chance of developing and the characters being properly fleshed out. The show follows Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell), an outcast at school who’s struggling with bullying and what he initially deems as hallucinations. After a jarring event, he learns that he’s actually the son of Poseidon, Greek God of the Sea, and a young demigod. Just as he’s wrapping his head around that, Percy is accused of stealing his uncle Zeus’ master bolt and sent on a quest to retrieve it before more trouble unravels. On the way, he’s accompanied by Annabeth Chase (Leah Sava Jeffries), daughter of Athena, and Grover Underwood (Aryan Simhadri), a satyr. This Greek mythology-infused show is a charming and fun watch that’s filled with magic, great action and neat special effects.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

HISTORICAL FICTION, SAGA, COMINGOF-AGE STORY

ROCK

RAP

Saviors By Green Day

Insano By Kid Cudi

Billie Joe Armstrong sings The American Dream Is Killing Me fervently on the opening track of Green Day’s 14th studio album, Saviors. It’s been three decades since their breakout album and the veteran punkpop trio have managed to capture rare form on their latest project by opting for a more garage-rock sound compared to recent, more experimental, attempts. On Bobby Sox, the verses stay sweet and tempered, while the distorted guitars and shouted vocals unleash triumphantly on the choruses. The driving bass line and drums particularly impress on 1981, while the memorable chorus “She’s gonna bang her head like 1981” sticks with you. The breezy melody on Suzie Chapstick oozes nostalgia, especially when the backing vocals kick in and emotions are laid bare on Father to a Son as Billie sings to his two boys, apologising for his mistakes and promising to be “a lighthouse in the storm". The opening riffs on Strange Days Are Here to Stay sound reminiscent of Basket Case but it finds its own path as the song proceeds. Here he laments “ever since Bowie died, it hasn't been the same” – it would be hard not to agree.

Since his era-defining 2009 debut album, Man on the Moon: The End of Day, Kid Cudi has been an influential voice in hip-hop. Now approaching 40 and feeling he’s given his best through previous projects, Kid considered retiring but it was while attending a Kendrick Lamar concert in Paris last year that inspiration struck and a series of events later, he announced his ninth studio album, Insano. DJ Drama’s booming voice kicks off the album with Often, I Have These Dreamz and he hosts the entirety of the 21-track LP in his signature style. Kid soon jumps in, with his laidback melodic drone effortlessly dancing across the track. The energy stays high on Keep Bouncing and Get Off Me, featuring Travis Scott. The album’s production has a strong trapheavy influence compared to previous projects, with Kid bringing upbeat performances but stepping back lyrically. We get his best vintage self on Wow with ASAP Rocky, a standout anthemic hook with a tight guest verse, and Ace of Base’s All That She Wants is surprisingly sampled on Electrowavebaby. With Cud Life, Porsche Topless and Blue Sky, it’s quite clear Kid’s having fun again and it shows.

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The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson By Ellen Baker

Drama, secrets, love, loss and life in the early 20th century circus. This family saga has it all and more besides. Dropped off at an orphanage in 1924, at the tender age of four, Cecily is later sold into a travelling circus where, as a teenager, she finds love. Fast forward to 2015, she is living a quiet life when the unexpected results of a surprise DNA test throw her family’s whole history into question. Very apposite in the days of 23andMe, it promises a stonking good read.

MYSTERY, CRIME FICTION, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

End of Story By AJ Finn

If you’re a fan of Knives Out, and who isn’t, then this is for you. With just months to live, reclusive novelist Sebastian Trapp invites detective fiction expert Nicky Hunter to “come tell my story”. That tale includes the mysterious disappearance of his first wife and son 20 years earlier. When a corpse turns up in the family’s koi pond, Nicky and Sebastian’s daughter discover the past is just waiting to reemerge.

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• FOR HER

TATA HARPER

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Bio-Shield Face Oil Experience the ultimate relief for sensitive skin with Tata Harper's Bio-Shield Face Oil. This hypoallergenic and vegan formula, free from more than 85 common irritants, including fragrances and essential oils, rejuvenates and strengthens the skin barrier. Packed with fruit-based vitamins C and E and plant-derived fatty acids, it deeply hydrates, nourishes and restores, leaving your complexion resilient and glowing.

FABLE & MANE MahaMane Detangling Leave-in Conditioner Transform your haircare routine with Fable & Mane's MahaMane Detangling Leave-in Conditioner. Infused with aloe vera and amla, this lightweight elixir effortlessly detangles, prevents breakage and adds hydration. With protection against heat up to 450°F (230°C) and UV damage, it ensures a smooth, tangle-free mane. Embrace the daily ritual with this silicone-free, vegan, cruelty-free and colour-safe formula.

SKIN STORY Brush Collection Raise your beauty game with Skin Story's new brush collection, crafted with precision and sustainability in mind. Made with Dermocura fibre for a conscientious beauty journey, the foundation brush is ideal for applying creamy or liquid base with precision, the blush brush offers controlled product application and the powder brush works great for sculpting and shading. The eyeshadow brush is perfect for all textures and key to creating captivating looks. Dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic, vegan and cruelty-free.

HERRERA BEAUTY Lunar Lover Herrera Beauty unveils Lunar Lover, a special edition LuckyCharms fragrance celebrating the Year of the Dragon and Chinese New Year. Encased in a Carolina red and Herrera pink bottle with a playful dragon charm, it features red hibiscus and rare red tea notes, creating an intriguing symphony. Ideal for gifting during the festivities, Lunar Lover’s red symbolises luck, joy and prosperity, while pink embodies affection and tenderness.

SHEGLAM Ember Rose Collection Ignite passion with SHEGLAM's Ember Rose Collection this Valentine's Day. It features four silky cream eyeshadows, lusciously soft blushes, rich velvet matte lipsticks and smooth highshine glosses. Masterfully blended with supreme quality, this collection is a tribute to the artisanal craft of love. These beauty essentials come elegantly packaged in one luxurious set, ideal as a gifting option.

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FOR HIM •

NOW FACT brings you the latest musthaves from the beauty world… from skincare and grooming, to scents MOLTON BROWN Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold and make-up.

Bath & Shower Gel Molton Brown is celebrating 10 years of its amber-rich Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold collection. This iconic fragrance, reminiscent of a spiced forest, combines rare oudh, honeyed resins and bergamot-infused black tea for a sophisticated aroma. The Bath & Shower Gel, infused with 24-carat gold flakes, features a sustainable, crueltyfree, gluten- and paraben-free formula in refillable, 50% recycled plastic bottles.

AESOP Lucent Facial Concentrate Aesop's Lucent Facial Concentrate is a potent hydrating serum designed for replenishing and balancing your skin. Its lightweight, aqueous formula is ideal for those avoiding oil-based products, offering concentrated vitamins, intense hydration and nourishing botanicals. Perfect for humid climates and those with combination and oily skin, these serums provide humectant-based hydration with a light, supportive texture.

DR. DENNIS GROSS Vitamin C Lactic Oil-Free Radiant Moisturizer Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare's Vitamin C Lactic Oil-Free Radiant Moisturizer revitalises dull, dehydrated skin. Its non-comedogenic formula blends three types of vitamin C and lactic acid, visibly reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation. Certified by the Vegan Society, this treatment enhances absorption and antioxidant performance for a youthful, even complexion.

THAMEEN LONDON IFMNS Green Caviar Day Cream UK cruelty-free skincare brand, IFMNS, presents its luxury Green Caviar beauty line. The star ingredient, Green Caviar Extract, provides 24-hour hydration, preserving skin radiance and elasticity. From the lightweight Day Cream to the nourishing Night Face Cream and revitalising Green Caviar Drops, IFMNS features sulphate-free formulations that focus on rare, natural ingredients.

Fanfare, The Britologne Collection Thameen London releases Fanfare, the debut fragrance from The Britologne Collection. Inspired by Covent Garden's Flower Market, Fanfare is reimagined as Cologne Elixir with a more nuanced layering over a classical structure of cologne. With a citrus, floral and woody accord, it features notes of bergamot, lemon, neroli, rosemary, vermouth, juniper berry, musk, patchouli and vetiver. Fanfare is presented in Thameen's signature clear frosted glass bottle with a magnetic silver cap. fact magazine

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Puppy Love

Love Actually

Love Languages

If you’ve been living under a rock, you might have missed all the hype around the US NFC championship game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions. Both sides had a lot to lose with a place in the Super Bowl up for grabs. We were rooting for the Lions – family ties, don’t hate us – but the

The British Royal Family has been in the wars of late with King Charles III undergoing prostate surgery and Catherine Princess of Wales needing a scheduled abdominal operation that necessitated a 13-day hospital stay. Unsurprisingly the UK press had a field day, playing up the closeness of the two’s relationship since he actually visited her – shock horror. And there were reports of

Hands up if you’ve come across that phrase or even the book from which it’s drawn, The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. Yep, it’s true, most of us have heard of it and we even wrote about it a few years ago trying to give some insight into the premise that there are, indeed, five love languages - compliments, quality time, gifts, acts of service and physical touch – and looking at how they can be

Prince William going into “full dad” scaling back engagements and stepping up to take on the school run. There were, of course, the antimonarchists who accused the King and Princess of slacking and making the most of their medical conditions to get out of work. Honestly, it seems these two can’t do right for doing wrong in some eyes. But perhaps that’s down to the media obsession with them. After all, man visits sick daughter-in-law and dad does the school run while mum’s in hospital – not exactly ‘hold the front page’ is it? That’s just love actually.

incorporated into modern relationships. The 1992 book by preacher Gary Chapman was an international best seller and seemed to suggest that you could only experience lasting love if you were attuned with your partner’s particular ‘love language’. It always seemed a bit odd but, hey ho, whatever floats your boat and, if it means more presents, then well and good. However, now there’s been some actual scientific study that shows we, as humans, need all sorts of aspects to nurture love. What researchers describe as ‘a balanced diet’ rather than sticking to just one way of expressing our affection. Well, who’d have thought it?

49ers were victorious and, since we heard this little tale (pun totally intended), we can see why and have even changed allegiance. It seems that, in the run up to the big game, the San Franciso players got a visit from some pups from the Humane Society of Silicon Valley. There was much de-stressing puppy love and social media presence, hopefully helping to find the needy canines their forever homes. Looks like the good karma worked for the 49ers. 122 fact magazine

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