Looking for a weekend escape, AMS headed to Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection for a moment of relaxation and delightful food.
Walking into Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection, we immediately felt like we were in an oasis of calm. The high ceilings of the lobby, bathed in natural light, created an immediate sense of ease. There are plush seatings in muted tones, inviting guests to relax. A grand staircase curved gracefully upwards, leading to more secluded spaces, while to the side, intimate seating areas provided a place for quiet conversations.
We were greeted with Arabic coffee as the concierge took care of our bags and the other formalities. After a swift and smooth check in, we were soon led towards the lifts and up to the 15th floor, eager to see our home for the next few days.
A ROOM WITH A VIEW
The moment we stepped inside our room, we were met with an atmosphere of tranquillity. The centrepiece, of course, was the grand bed, dressed in crisp white linens and framed by a mustard leather headboard.
Beyond the bed, a seating area by the window with an uninterrupted view of the Corniche, the Arabian Gulf stretching into the horizon. Below, the streets of Msheireb bustled with life amidst elegant new buildings. A well-placed desk nestled against a warm wooden wall added a touch of practicality to the room without interrupting its peaceful atmosphere.
UNWINDING IN STYLE
First up was a visit to the Infinity Rooftop area, where we settled into plush seats and sipped on mocktails as the sun set. The elevated vantage point made Doha’s skyline even more dramatic. It was a chilly evening, but the staff thoughtfully provided blankets to keep us warm, with strategically placed fires creating a cosy atmosphere.
Dinner that evening was a lively affair as we made our way to O’Glacée Restaurant for its Thursday night Mexican-themed brunch. It was a vibrant, flavour-packed feast – nachos and guacamole prepared fresh, soft burritos brimming with seasoned fillings and tender chicken tortillas that melted in the mouth. Sides of buffalo wings and loaded fries provided a satisfying contrast, each bite rich, indulgent and perfectly spiced. The atmosphere was casual but buzzing with energy. The addition of the smiling duo, who sang Latin hits, made it the perfect way to settle into our stay.
WELLNESS AND INDULGENCE
The next morning, we started the day at Le Colonial’s breakfast buffet, which had something for every craving – fresh fruits, pastries and cooked-to-order eggs, all beautifully presented. For those seeking a hearty start, there was an extensive selection of cold cuts and cheeses alongside a full English breakfast spread featuring chicken sausages, baked beans, sautéed mushrooms and crispy hash browns. A cereal station offered a variety of choices, from granola to classic cornflakes, with fresh and dried fruits to sprinkle on top. And the list went on – fluffy pancakes, honey-drizzled waffles and a selection of yoghurts ensured there was something for every palate. It was a feast of options, all served with the signature warmth and attentiveness of the staff.
After a huge breakfast, it was time to burn off some of those calories. The well-appointed fitness centre featured Life Fitness resistance machines, a full rack of dumbbells and an array of cardio equipment. Large windows framed sweeping views of Msheireb, adding a sense of openness to the space. It was a refreshing way to wake up, energising us for the day ahead.
By lunchtime, we were back at Le Colonial for its renowned weekend family brunch. The seafood paella stood out for its depth of flavour, packed with fresh ingredients that spoke of careful preparation. The chicken biryani was just as impressive, each grain of rice infused with aromatic spices, while the roast beef and creamy mashed potatoes melted apart at the mere touch of a fork. A dedicated tortilla station allowed guests to customise their creations, while a separate pasta station added an interactive element. The dessert spread was equally impressive – soft ice cream for the younger guests and a decadent selection of cheesecakes, matcha rolls and delicate pastries for those with more refined tastes. Our server, Hnin, was a joy – warm, friendly and always on hand to ensure we had everything we needed.
Later in the afternoon, we ventured out for a stroll around Msheireb, exploring its pedestrian-friendly streets and stylish boutiques. Upon our return, it was time for an experience we had been eagerly anticipating – a couple’s massage at M|Spa.
The session began with a personalised questionnaire, ensuring that our preferences and any areas of concern were addressed. Once inside the dimly lit treatment room, the atmosphere shifted to pure tranquillity – soft, meditative music played in the background and the faint scent of essential oils filled the air. The treatment started with a warm foot cleanse, a ritual that instantly set the tone for relaxation. As we lay back, the hot oil and hot stone massage worked its way from our feet upwards, soothing tension and relieving stress with perfectly applied pressure. The combination of heat and expert technique left us feeling completely rejuvenated.
AN EVENING OF ELEGANCE
Dinner at Cila was a perfect finale to the day. We started with the signature mezze selection, featuring five small dishes accompanied by warm, freshly baked bread. Each bite was delicate yet packed with flavour, a wonderful introduction to the main course. The Manti with lamb arrived in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, the delicate dumplings encasing tender, slow-cooked meat. A drizzle of tangy yoghurt and a sprinkle of sumac added depth, balancing the dish beautifully. Alongside, the Potato Harra delivered a welcome contrast – crispy cubes of spiced potatoes tossed with coriander, garlic and chilli, offering a subtle heat that lingered pleasantly. The lamb chops that followed were nothing short of exceptional – succulent, perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection, served with tender asparagus and earthy sautéed mushrooms that enhanced the dish’s richness. Ending on a sweet note, we indulged in house-made ice cream, a simple yet refined way to complete the meal. The service was impeccable, with staff ensuring we felt truly spoilt.
On our final morning, we opted for an in-room breakfast, enjoying our meal in the comfort of our accommodation. The spread was as delightful as expected – eggs on avocado toast atop crisp sourdough, a vibrant platter of fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup and rich, aromatic coffee. It was a leisurely, slow-paced way to start the day.
Before check out, we made time for the afternoon tea, a refined and indulgent experience. The freshly baked scones, served with clotted cream and jam, were a standout, while the delicate sandwiches – filled with salmon, turkey and falafel – added a savoury balance. The matcha roll once again proved to be a favourite among the pastries, it was just right paired with a cup of English breakfast tea.
A STAY TO REMEMBER
Our time at Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection was a seamless blend of luxury, relaxation and exceptional service. From the elegant surroundings and thoughtfully designed rooms to the diverse dining experiences and indulgent spa treatments, every element worked in harmony to create a truly memorable stay. Whether enjoying panoramic views over Doha, savouring world-class cuisine or unwinding in the spa, the experience was defined by comfort and attentiveness. We will definitely be back.
For more information or to make a reservation,
please call Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection on 4009 9999.
@alwadi.hotel.doha