Known for its noodles and ramen, Wagamama Doha’s big bowl of comfort always appeals after a busy day of errands. A popular option for shoppers Wagamama has stealthily crept into the subconscious of diners around the world as a brand that delivers fresh and consistent food – much like this place in Doha.
Wagamama Doha – Ezdan Mall
The restaurant at the Ezdan Mall Wagamama branch is clean and sleek with the Japanese penchant for smooth lines. There are table arrangements for large groups, smaller booths as well as an outdoor terrace which may appeal for cooler evenings. Service is a little slow but comes with a smile; servers should also be able to advise you about allergy information.
To be clear about the menu it is not strictly Japanese – but rather is inspired by Japanese dishes with Asian flavours. There is a focus on Ramen – a popular menu item that consists of meat or fish with noodles in a flavoursome broth. Just make sure to slurp your noodles, as the Japanese do, in order to show your appreciation of your tasty meal!
Whilst waiting for the mains my dining companion and I had the Kusabi Chips – sweet potato crisps (‘chips’ is used in the American understanding of the word) with an accompanying wasabi mayonnaise. A disappointing overpriced starter, which wasn’t as crispy as expected although the sauce was tasty enough.
I also ordered the Watermelon Fizz smoothie, which looked like an ice blast and gave the ‘brain freeze’ feeling of one too. A blend of watermelon, strawberry and basil; the addition of coconut was a little jarring so although the drink looked fantastic it did not deliver on flavour for me.
We ordered one of the popular items on the menu, the Chicken Katsu Curry. The chicken is covered in crisp panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried, and then the ‘katsu’ is the curry sauce which is poured on top. Mild in flavour it provides a nice contrast to the crisp, breaded chicken. This dish also comes with a mixed leaf salad and white rice cooked in the Japanese-style. Delicious and filling – it is definitely one to reorder, but not a health-conscious option!
The ingredients for the Yasai Yaki Soba are cooked on a flat griddle known as a teppan taki, which helps to amalgamate the flavours of the dish together. This noodle dish is a great option for vegetarians, although there is a chicken and shrimp version for those looking for extra protein.
Cooked thin whole-wheat soba noodles, eggs and a variety of vegetables including beansprouts are covered with a spicy vinegar and coriander dressing. It’s garnished with fried shallots, sesame seeds and pickled ginger (avoid eating this on its own – it’s lethal!). It delivers on flavour, but at QR 53 it is a little pricey for a vegetable-only dish.
Eating out at Wagamama was saved by the main course which delivered flavour – however, it is a little pricey compared to the other mall dining options which may not appeal to some diners. But if you are looking for non-greasy comfort food this could be an option as the menu does offer non-fried options. For example you can order the Chicken Katsu with grilled chicken breast instead of fried, however sacrilegious that may sound to die-hard Chicken Katsu-lovers!
Wagamama Doha has branches in Ezdan Mall (+974 4463 3876) and Lagoona Mall (+974 4471 5190). You can call the individual restaurants for take-out and delivery too.
Pic Credits: QE and Wagamama Doha.