A FRENCH EXPEDITION

Raving reviews about the haute-cuisine dining restaurant IDAM had Anushay Taimur Khan all geared up to experience food like never before. With hopes set high, she headed to the Museum of Islamic Art to confirm the grapevine gossip of the most luxurious restaurant in town…

The Museum of Islamic Art has always been one of my favourite cultural hotspots and I have always heard great reviews about IDAM, so imagine the excitement when I finally got an opportunity to experience dining the Alain Ducasse way. Nestled on the 5th floor of the museum, I was warmly welcomed by the staff and then introduced to Mikko, the restaurant manager. I absolutely loved the entire monochrome vibes of the restaurant and as Mikko informed me, the tone was purposefully set in a way in which the food would be allowed to bring colour to the entire place.

Phillipe Starck’s design concept is bound to blow your mind and here he emphasises the journey of discovery. The modern interior of the restaurant gives a regal look the minute you enter. The lush black carpets in the restaurant are beautifully calligraphed with famous Arabian folk tales, setting the venue up as a chic dining room with Arabian history intertwined with iconic design. I took some time to explore the restaurant since it was so intriguing and adorned in Starck’s choice of stone, glass and steel. I found the lamps to be my favourite feature. With messages on the LED strip in the centre of the lamp, I have truly never experienced design like this! There are two bookshelves set up on either side of the window that overlooks the skyline – a mesmerising view to dine with!

I was taken to my table, which was impeccably displayed – there was not a single crease on the white sheets there. The attention to detail at this restaurant was blowing me away and I couldn’t wait to taste the food. I was served the signature dish, namely tender camel served with duck foie-gras and black truffle and as Mikko informed me, the meat is braised for six days for this little beauty. As you would imagine, the moment I had my first bite, I melted with the meat. The strong flavour and delicious sauces were the true definition of haute cuisine. The soufflé potatoes were an excellent addition to the menu and trust me, I’ve been trying to copy the recipe ever since because they gave such a unique twist to your regular, everyday French fries! Alain Ducasse is truly the architect of creative flavours as I experienced some delicious fine dining options incorporated with the Arabian twist that I was promised.

The fact that Alain Ducasse holds 21 Michelin stars does not come as a surprise to me since the food and service at his restaurant is incomparable. With various activities and offers, such as their lunch menu set at QR200, IDAM has become a popular dining option in Doha for lunch.. Hautecuisine dining is, surprisingly, for everyone at IDAM! Once you’re there, be sure to ask Mikko his recommendations and more about the restaurant’s story as his extensive experience in the hospitality industry will make for the perfect addition to your culinary journey at IDAM. ✤