Healthy food in Qatar is always something that comes with an expensive price tag, yet Bateel have managed to showcase a well balanced iftar offering at all of its 3 outlets. (double check how many outlets offer this). Earlier this week we went to test out their Iftari Sharing menu (QAR120 per person) at the Mall of Qatar branch.

Opening our fast with some beautiful organic dates and some refreshing watermelon juice- they have range of juices to choose from, we went to pick our appetisers. I was surprised to find out that it was not just pick one dish per course when you come as a couple or larger group the appetisers and mains are to share.

The helpful staff brought over our range of starters: Halloumi and Quinoa salad, Quinoa Tabbouleh, Jirjir salad and a range of mix raw vegetables with beetroot hummus & a thick and creamy labneh. Not only were the ingredients fresh but the dressing on each of the salads really uplifted the flavour. 

A small break in-between the appetisers and mains, we were served warm soup. A choice of 2 flavours, Quinoa and chickpea and Lentil Soup, were given. Personally, the quinoa and chickpea soup with perfectly spiced with a great tomato flavour was delicious.

The well-presented main course arrived warm and beautifully seasoned. The main courses covered a range of palettes, Grilled Salmon & Quinoa, Mushroom Risotto and Lamb Confit and Farro Risotto. Thankfully the portions were not too large as by this time I had started filling up. Personally, I cannot resist a lamb dish and it was tender and full of flavour.

A selection of fresh fruit, some organic dates and a range of locally produced cakes brought the meal to an end. However, the dessert de resistance was the moist date cake with yogurt with pecan and dhibs. To cleanse the palette we were served the Bateel signature qahwa. Our table was full of colour and each dish outdid the next.

We get so busy with hotel offerings that sometimes we forget that restaurants like Bateel have far tastier options available. I was surprised to find out how much of the produce is locally sourced and freshly made. The range of dishes balanced out with the amount of food we both left full and yet we didn’t have the after indulging bloat. 

Bateel may be a hidden gem for those who are keen on eating locally sourced healthy dishes without the hefty price tag, I for one will definitely be going back and not just to pick up my dates!