Doha- — Mandarin Oriental, Doha is redefining Qatar’s culinary landscape with QAQAW, a chic new chocolate café that promises a journey through taste, tradition, and artistry. Located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown’s vibrant Baraha Square, QAQAW celebrates the rich heritage and provenance of chocolate, with handcrafted Valrhona creations, indulgent desserts, and aromatic drinks.
Inspired by the ancient word for cocoa and the ‘Q’ in Qatar, QAQAW is set in a stunning Art Deco space. Geometric precision blends with the natural warmth of rose and wooden accents, polished marble, and mirrored finishes, while luxuriant greenery transports guests from Doha’s urban landscape to the lush cocoa plantations of Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, and Indonesia.
Thomas Kinsperger, General Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Doha said: “QAQAW is a homage to artisanal farmers who hand-pick cocoa pods, using time-honoured methods to craft the finest beans. In the hands of our talented pastry team, these fine ingredients are transformed with flair and innovation, as befitting the culinary traditions of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. This dedication and artistry are reflected in every bite and sip at QAQAW.”
QAQAW’s menu carefully curates a decadent variety of Valrhona chocolate – ranging from the pure, light and velvety 33% Opalys white chocolate to the intense bittersweet, woody notes of roasted cocoa nibs in 80% Komuntu dark chocolate. Signature offerings include the QAQAW Signature Hot Chocolate, artisanal Arabic Coffee, and show-stopping desserts like Crème Brûlée and Gâteau au Chocolat. Frozen treats, such as Crème Glacée crafted with 64% Manjari dark chocolate, add a refreshing twist. The menu also features savoury delights such as the Avocado Chicken Salad and Croque Monsieur.
A hallmark of the QAQAW experience is the interactive style, where dishes are meticulously finished tableside with a delicate garnish or a pour of velvety sauce, with Mandarin Oriental’s renowned service elevating the experience.
QAQAW is open from 12 to 11pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, then 3 to 11pm on Fridays to Tuesdays.
