Farm-fresh fare graces the table at Chef’s Garden
A menu based around organic produce direct from the farm gate is a novel concept in Qatar, especially given we are used to buying ‘fresh’ fruit and vegetables from thousands of kilometres away.
However, there are an increasing number of Doha restaurants embracing ‘farm to table’ cuisine, including the pioneering Chef’s Garden, making it an intriguing choice as the venue for Qatar Living’s January Food Bloggers’ dinner.
The restaurant, managed by AMLAK Holding and aligned with Qatar Foundation, is as much about lifestyle choices as top quality cuisine.
Produce is delivered every two to three days from Al Safwa, Qatar’s first internationally certified organic farm, organic locally raised meats are used and the menu is vegetarian/vegan-friendly.
To emphasize the concept, Eric Cousin, the genial Corporate Executive Chef, takes us on a quick tour of the on-site vegetable garden before we sit down on the charming outdoor terrace for dinner.
We start with an inventive selection of well-presented salads, including a sensational beet concoction with goats’ cheese and a citrus vinaigrette, as well as delicious stuffed artichokes.
The main course is a combination of meats from a buffet - plump lamb chops, generous serves of hammour and grilled, spiced chicken - supplemented by waiters delivering a selection of dishes.
The steak is a stand-out, juicy and seasoned to perfection, while the meat-free mains include a parmesan, beet and mushroom risotto.
A groaning dessert buffet provides a satisfying end to the meal – the New York ricotta cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser – before each guest is presented with a basket and invited to fill it from a display of produce by Al Safwa.
It’s a fitting take home present, and a further nudge to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
The only quibble? Located away from the hubbub of West Bay, on the grounds of Al Shaqab, Chef’s Garden is fairly difficult to find. Luckily, it’s worth the effort.
This article was produced by Dawn Gibson for Qatar Living. Follow Dawn on Twitter (@DawnGibsonDoha)
Chef’s Garden, Marwan Club, Al Shaqab, Education City: Access from Gate 7, off Al Shaqab St, 4409 5040
