The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort

In a lovely modern building nestled among a discreet complex of towers on Gewan Island is this simple and colourful restaurant cum café. A local favourite, with a terrace, the spot immediately attracts you thanks to the lovely aromas of the bread oven. Simple, fresh dishes are served from breakfast to dinner; you can expect falafel, tasty juices, lamb kofta, and qahwa (Arabic coffee) served in a dallah set at great prices. The elbah – a baked custard with saffron – is a sweet way to wrap up any meal here.

Named after the northern Italian town famous for its truffles, this restaurant is found on the first floor of the opulent Raffles hotel, within the eye-catching Katara Towers. With its vaulted ceiling and Italian-themed décor, the room has a distinctive and intimate feel. The cooking, by experienced chef Cristhian Serraino, is skilfully measured and far more complex than may first appear. Dishes such as Barolo-braised veal cheek or spaghetti with ragù of shrimp highlight his skill. Top quality ingredients are flown in from Europe, like the Balfegó tuna. To watch the chefs in action, book the C

Head to the first floor of the Rosewood Hotel, walk past the enclosed glass wine cellar and enjoy being greeted by the tasty aromas from the ovens in the centre of the restaurant. Before taking a seat, head to the semi-open kitchen to say a quick hello to smiley chef Marc. The menu here is a mix of Mediterranean and Levantine sharing dishes, such as the memorable courgetti wafer with feta, and is inspired by recipes from the chef’s parents. Don’t miss out on the freshly baked breads served warm and paired with tasty hummus.

A franchise of the established – and highly acclaimed – London headquarters, this Indian restaurant is located just inside the Hilton Resort in the Katara Hills area. It’s a striking place that resembles a lodge, with a terrace at the back and a clubby, colonial feel inside. The open kitchen, which adds plenty of animation to the room, takes its inspiration from the menu offered in London which was, in turn, inspired by the clubs of India. Lunch represents good value and the service is polite and welcoming.

‘Heritage Indian Cuisine’ under the aegis of Surjan Singh, better known as ‘Chef Jolly’, is the order of the day at this elegant and moodily lit restaurant at the St Regis hotel. That means a menu offering an appealing range of dishes, from elevated street food to elegant curries and biryanis. The undecided should consider the ‘Signature Board’ offering a range of meats and seafood from the tandoor, plus salad and chutney. The service is always endearingly sweet-natured, adding to the restaurant’s appeal.

Come for the beachfront location, stay for the vibrant Peruvian dishes at this light and airy restaurant within the grounds of the InterContinental Hotel. Gastón Acurio is a fine ambassador for Peruvian food and all bases are covered here, from ceviches to anticuchos. The colourful, rustic dishes deliver plenty of punchy flavours and are perfect for sharing. As you sit and soak up the lively atmosphere, you’ll be struck by what a fun night out it all is. And the wallet-friendly prices make it even more appealing.

Part of a small international group, this Indian restaurant is named after the intricate 16th-century shawls of Kashmir and sits inside the Sheraton Grand Hotel. It’s a smart spot, with a mix of modern and traditional elements in its décor. The extensive menu covers all regions of India, from Old Delhi butter chicken to Kerala-style beef, and includes refined small plates and several dishes from the tandoor such as succulent lamb chops. Fine ingredients are used and bold flavours are delivered, with the spicing impressively well-judged.