Branch of the South Indian vegetarian chain in Old Al Ghanim; further Qatar outlets are on Salwa Road, in Safari Mall and in Al Khor Mall.
Saravana Bhavan in Old Al Ghanim, Doha, Qatar, is a branch of the South Indian vegetarian restaurant chain founded in Chennai, India, which has outlets in many countries. The Doha restaurant is at 13 Al Mahar Street in Old Al Ghanim, and further Qatar outlets are on Salwa Road, in Safari Mall and in Al Khor Mall. The cuisine is strictly vegetarian and centres on the dishes of Tamil Nadu and the wider south of India, prepared without meat, fish or eggs. The signature dishes are those that made the chain popular. Masala dosa, a thin, crisp fermented rice-and-lentil crepe filled with spiced potato, is the emblematic order and arrives with coconut chutney and sambar. Idli and vada, the steamed rice cakes and fried lentil doughnuts served as breakfast or snacks, are staples, and the South Indian thali, a set meal with rice, vegetable curries, sambar, rasam, curd and dessert, gives a full overview of the cuisine at a fixed price. Filter coffee and sweets such as payasam and halwa complete the menu. The restaurant is busy and informal, with canteen-style tables, quick service and a noticeable crowd of families and workers from Doha's large Indian community, especially at lunch and at weekends. Noise levels are moderate to high. There is no dress code. Alcohol is not served, and drinks are tea, coffee, lassi and juices. Prices are among the lowest in the city, at about QAR 25 to 60 per person, so it is a good option for budget travellers and vegetarians. Service is reported daily from breakfast to late evening, and hours should be verified before visiting. Walk-ins are accepted and booking is not usually needed, although large groups may wait for tables on Friday and at peak lunch time. Old Al Ghanim is a short drive from the city centre and from Souq Waqif.
| Price | About QAR 25–60 (~$6.9–16) per person |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, breakfast to late evening (verify exact hours) |
| Reservations | Walk-ins accepted; booking is not usually needed |
| Address | 13 Al Mahar Street, Old Al Ghanim, Doha, Qatar |
Signature dishes
- Masala dosa
- Idli and vada
- South Indian thali
Good to know
- Known for
- Pure vegetarian South Indian meals at budget prices
Location
13 Al Mahar Street, Old Al Ghanim, Doha, Qatar
25.2841, 51.5387 View on map
Highlights
- Masala dosa with chutney and sambar
- Idli and vada breakfast staples
- South Indian thali at a set price
- Entirely vegetarian menu at budget prices
Tips for visiting
- Order the thali for a full introduction to South Indian food at one price.
- Come for breakfast to try idli and vada.
- Expect queues at lunch and on Fridays.
- Walk-ins are accepted; booking is not normally needed.
- Finish with filter coffee.
When to visit
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon avoids the lunch crowd; Fridays are the busiest.
Accessibility
Access varies by branch, and the Old Al Ghanim restaurant is a standard street-level venue. Visitors with mobility needs can telephone ahead, or consider a mall branch, which usually has lifts and level access.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Saravana Bhavan vegetarian?
Yes, the menu is strictly vegetarian and South Indian.
Where is the Old Al Ghanim branch?
It is at 13 Al Mahar Street, Old Al Ghanim, Doha.
How much does a meal cost?
Expect about QAR 25 to 60 per person.
Are there other branches?
Other Qatar outlets are on Salwa Road, in Safari Mall and in Al Khor Mall.