Damasca One

Damasca One is a Syrian and Levantine restaurant on Yusuf Ahmed Al Jamal Square in Souq Waqif, Doha, Qatar. Its name refers to Damascus, and the kitchen draws on the cooking of Syria and the wider Levant, a cuisine with a long tradition of mezze, grilled meats and fresh bread. The square setting gives the restaurant an open, sociable atmosphere, with tables spilling toward the market and a steady stream of passers-by during the evening. The menu is built around three staples. Mezze, the small shared plates that open a Levantine meal, include hummus, moutabal, tabbouleh, fattoush and stuffed vine leaves. Shawarma, the spit-roasted chicken or beef wrapped in flatbread, is a popular quick order for solo diners. Mixed grills, a platter of kebabs, shish taouk and grilled lamb served with rice, salad and bread, are the usual choice for groups. Desserts and sweet pastries, along with Arabic coffee and mint tea, typically close the meal. Portions are generous, and ordering a spread of mezze with one grill platter is an efficient way to sample the menu. The mood is informal and family-friendly, with a moderate noise level that rises on busy weekend evenings, and there is no strict dress code, though modest clothing suits the souq. As in most Souq Waqif venues, alcohol is not generally served, and drinks centre on juices, lemonade with mint, tea and coffee. Prices are modest, at about QAR 60 to 150 per person. Service is reported daily from lunch to late evening, and hours should be verified before visiting. Walk-ins are usually accepted, though groups should book ahead on weekends, particularly in the cooler months when the souq is at its most crowded. The square is within easy walking distance of other Souq Waqif landmarks.