In a charming corner on the banks of the West Bay attached to the Sheraton, La Veranda presents a mouth-watering experience and a unique view.

This Italian restaurant presents food as if it is being cooked in Rome and also includes an indoor/outdoor lounge overlooking the Doha Corniche, the famous skyscrapers and the gulf waters.

The interiors of the restaurant are designed to pose for a rustic styled Italian dining hall with wooden chairs and the décor of vintage time taking you back to a distant European city. Live music and pasta stations adds to the restaurant’s unique and spiritual experience.

Guests are welcomed into the restaurant (even without a reservation) with warmth and courtesy. The Italian menu can be a little difficult to read for expats who are not from Italy. The waiters are helpful with the menu choices and explain the contents and ingredients of the dishes as well, which is a great way to ease guests into a night one can remember. We had ordered the Beef carpaccio, a Rocket salad, pan fried scallops, risotto with shrimps and turkey ham with pecorino cheese.

They also had a special menu for children from which items like nuggest, French fries and pasta with white sauce was ordered which was absolutely delightful as well. The children were very happy with their order, which came in large quantities. There was no delay in arrival of food as well.

The main courses also arrived on time and the quantity made it shareable on a full table. The Risotto in specific was excellent. Forgetting the usual taste of fast food corners offering pizza, the authentic Italian pizza at La Veranda surprised us. There are no peppers or hotdogs, but one can find bresaola and procini mushrooms. It may be strange at first, but after two or three bites, the delicious taste will engulf you. The tiramisu, which is our favourite dessert, was delicious!

The location of La Veranda is great for a view to remember during family get togethers, small and quiet business meetings or for a romantic meal by the sea with your loved one.

Written by:  Maha Abd El kafi