We did it again – we went out on a weeknight, had fun, stayed late and spent an amazing time in one of our favourite hangout places in Doha, the Radisson Blu Hotel.
The hotel is an old favourite, a familiar space for Doha residents who’ve been here forever. The plan is to go for a late afternoon splash at the pool (read: swimming without the sun) and later, enjoy the Indian feast at Chingari.
The pool at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha has always been synonymous with families for as long as I can remember. It’s a favourite swimming pool for residents around the area because it’s accessible and offers enough space for everyone!
Situated on the sunny side of the old wing, the trees surrounding the pools also give the place a familiar comfort – bright and shady at the same time. While most pool areas don’t allow food near the water, the pool actually have a ‘bar’ – the Cabana Club – where you can order food and drinks!
The colourful slide system on the kiddie pool can also keep kids busy for hours! Standing under one of those flowing waters can be hypnotising.
After that ‘quick’ splash, we went next to Inginuity, another one of our favourite places. It was surprisingly empty, the first time that I’ve actually seen it not filled with people. We’re too early, that’s why, says our lovely host. And true enough, after a round of refreshing drinks, people started coming.
Inginuity is actually a baby compared to the other outlets in Radisson. The resto-bar replaced Maxims in 2018, a cosy date place reminiscent of a Paris bistro. Inginuity, for all its newness, caters to a more active set of clientele.
Chingari
Chingari’s place in the list of our favourite Indian restaurants in Qatar has always been on top, mainly because of the food and the friendly staff. Under normal circumstances, a Sitar-playing band will be singing on the background, crooning out relaxing Indian music, and surprising non-Indian guests with a rendition of ‘Hotel California’ in the middle of performance. Good times.
The place serves classic Tandoori dishes, which for us always come with a very comforting bowl of Butter Chicken and Naan, a platter of grilled meat and seafood, some mildly-spiced rice, and curry. A glass of Mango Lassi was served on the side just to cut in the meaty taste. We were happy.
If it’s not a weekday, we will probably stay longer – walk around the open area around the pool, visit the singing staff of The Italian Job, maybe have a cup of coffee back at Inginuity, just like in normal times, pre-COVID-19. Funny how things that we use to take for granted previously became such a precious thing in such a short a span of time.
Our take of this weeknight out? Good things remain to remind you of things that matter. Thank you Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha for reminding us.
Please note that health and safety measures are still in place in all public areas around Qatar. Everyone are still required to show a green Ehteraz status upon entry to the hotel, wear face masks and practice social distancing.
Opening times:
Chingari: 6 pm – 11 pm daily
Inginuity: 2 pm – 11 pm daily
The Italian Job: 6 pm – 11 pm daily
Main pool: 9 am – 9 pm
Kids pool: 9 am – 8 pm
Advance reservations required, call 4428 1621 or email [email protected]
Author: Lalaine S Turqueza
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