Many people in Doha write reviews on the restaurants. Reviews are just people’s opinions of their personal preference. Take it or leave it, but respect it! Many people have said that the Friday brunch at the St. Regis is the BEST in Doha. That is their opinion and this is mine…
I was so excited to sit at another Gordon Ramsey restaurant since I had been to Burrger’s in Vegas years ago and had, hands down, the best burger in my life. I was more so excited because I was finally going to eat at the raved about St. Regis Brunch. My group sat down at Opal, avoiding the long line in front of Vine.
The restaurant is beautiful and the view of the bay is too. Since this was our first time here, I thought someone would explain how the brunch system works here, but no one did. I asked for a drink from the young man who poured us some water but I could barely understand him through his thick accent, not uncommon here though (one of the things I love about Doha), I’m sure my accent is thick too. lol. Finally, I understood that I needed a bracelet to show that I was here for the alcohol. He bought them out a little while later and through curiosity I learned that there were bar stations set up all over serving different drinks. I liked that I hadn’t researched this brunch before I came, because once I stepped out of Opal and into the back patio area, I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. There was food everywhere. Stations upon stations upon stations. There are tables set up outside and inside Opal, Astor Grill and Vine that you have access to. You can get your fill of seafood, beef and chicken. There is sushi, salads, kabobs, live cooking stations, sides, veggies, desserts and more. The live reggae band was great. I love reggae. There were people everywhere, dressed in everything from almost nothing to full coverage. It was very resort like and I loved the scene. Quickly I realized why many people believe this to be the best brunch in Doha.
The walk from the stations to my table in Opal was a bit of a distance, so once I sat down to eat, my food was cold. Granted it was a little chilly on this day 24/2/17, but never do I enjoy food that is supposed to be hot, cold. I am very particular about this. When I go out to eat, if my food is not hot, I send it back every time. For this reason, I will always choose a a la carte brunch over buffet. Some people have said, they really enjoyed the grits at this brunch. I did not. When I saw shrimp and grits, I got all excited but they were not like home at all, bland, watery and tasteless. Outside of collecting our plates and refilling our water, the table service was non existent and cold. I know that it is a buffet but checking on customers is always a plus. And all of that food couldn’t possibly be consumed within 4 hours. Where does it all go? Waste? For these reasons, the brunch at the St. Regis isn’t the best in Doha.
Maybe my expectations were too high based on shared experiences or the fact that this was a Gordon Ramsey restaurant. I know many people would disagree but that is why it is called a review. I speak my truths based on my personal preferences. I would love to try Opal again but not for Brunch.
In summary, the Friday, Buffet, Brunch at the St. Regis is 450 QAR with alcohol, 350 without, offers lots of food and a variety of it, great views and scenery, has good drinks, a wonderful live band, unimpressive service, average tasting food and sit outside or be prepared to eat cold food!
Side Note: One member of my party got sick afterwards for two days, unfortunately.
Teaching Abroad- American Teacher Overseas 
I have to say, the setting looked gorgeous even if the food wasn’t that great!
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