There are meals that satisfy, meals that impress, and then there are meals that seduce. Scarpetta Doha does the latter with effortless finesse, whispering sweet nothings in the language of perfectly twirled spaghetti and soul-stirring polenta. Nestled within the opulent Waldorf Astoria Lusail, this isn’t just the best Italian restaurant in Qatar—it might just be the finest dining experience in the Gulf States.
From the moment you step into Scarpetta, the mood is set: a striking balance between Italian elegance and contemporary cool. Towering travertine, rich marbles, and buttery leathers create an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and inviting. The room hums with an energy that’s hard to manufacture—glamorous locals, power couples, and the occasional solo diner who knows they’re in for a treat.
Now, let’s talk about the food. The name Scarpetta comes from the Italian tradition of mopping up every last drop of sauce with a piece of bread. A fitting title, considering you’ll be tempted to do exactly that with every plate. The famous bread basket is reason enough to visit, but exercise some restraint—what follows is pure magic. The creamy polenta, best in the Middle East, arrives like a warm embrace, impossibly rich and deep with layers of flavor. It alone could make for a perfect meal, but this is just the beginning.
Their signature spaghetti, served under a dramatic cloche lift, is the restaurant’s flex—a deceptively simple dish of tomato and basil that has reached cult status. Is it the best pasta I’ve ever had? No. But it’s damn good. The salt-crusted branzino, however, is a revelation—delicate, aromatic, and effortlessly falling apart at the touch of a fork. And if you leave without trying the tiramisu, you’ve made a grave mistake. It’s the best in the region, a flawless crescendo to a meal that already feels like a grand romance.
Cocktails? Order freely. The bartenders here understand the alchemy of a well-balanced drink, making the prelude and encore of your meal just as memorable as the main act.
Scarpetta Doha doesn’t try too hard—it doesn’t need to. This is Italian dining at its most seductive, where every bite is a promise and every plate, a love letter. Do yourself a favor: arrive hungry, stay late, and don’t be ashamed to fare la scarpetta until the very last drop.
Visit www.ScarpettaRestaurants.com to book your indulgence!
By: Lucas Raven
