CHIC Eats

Ilearnt about both Vikings and Ancient Egyptians at school, but my history teacher unfortunately never indulged us with even a morsel of Indian history. Luckily for me, to dine at Riyasat, the beautiful eatery in Al Gassar Resort, The St. Regis Doha, is to slip back to the time of ‘The Raj’ and experience the culmination of centuries of cross-pollinated Indian culinary artistry.

From the Mughals to the British and the Portuguese traders who introduced chilli to India 600 years ago, Indian cuisine has been influenced by other cultures just as it has shaped food across the world today. Riyasat’s guests brush shoulders with culinary traditions practised by Indian royal families over the centuries-long history, with a phenomenal menu curated by Indian celebrity chef, Chef Jolly.

History lessons never tasted this good.

Entering the impressive restaurant involves a little time travel. Golden hues mix with a dark pink colour scheme. Crimson velvet sofas and a dark red floor sit alongside playful, coloured tiling under circular tables. Soft, upbeat electronic music adds a modern edge.

We’re greeted warmly by Shailender, the restaurant manager, and led to our table. Facing a vast glass partition illuminating the view onto the kitchen behind, I’m transfixed by the huge beehive tandoor ovens lined up by the window. I’m told they’re made from honey-infused clay, designed to add a subtle smoky layer to the food cooked within. I can’t wait to verify that morsel of information.