Let me take you to a place in Doha where the hustle and bustle of the Souq Waqif meets the warmth of home—the cozy, vibrant Shay Al-Shamoos restaurant Doha. The moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with a cheerful “Hello!” by Shams, the heart and soul of the restaurant. It’s as if you’ve known each other for years, and that’s the magic of her welcome. This is a restaurant where you can embrace the Qatari hospitality, taste the traditional food and admire the simple and elegant outdoor ambience. The restaurant features a typical Qatari essence in its every corner, offering a unique cultural experience in the country.
Your Experience at Shay Al-Shamoos: A Journey Through Flavor and Resilience
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Now, let me take you on a little journey through the flavors of Qatari dishes in Doha. Conversations, laughter, the clink of tea glasses—this is where families and friends gather on a Friday morning, savoring the start of their weekend. These are the kind of dishes that bring warmth, no matter where you're from. You will feel special with the kind gesture of Eman, daughter of Shams who gives you a knowing smile as she guides you to a bigger table than you’d expect. “For all the food,” she laughs. You’ll soon see why. As we are talking about Shams Al Qassabi, the mind and soul behind Shay Al- Shamoos, it’s important to know a little bit more about this lady, so let’s shake hands with her.
Meet Shams Al-Qassabi: The Proud Owner of Shay Al-Shamoos
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I am taking pleasure in introducing you to Shams Al-Qassabi, a true pioneer. She’s the first female entrepreneur to break into the heart of Souq Waqif, Qatar’s busiest market. In her mid-30s, with five kids at home, Shams made the bold decision to venture out on her own. It wasn’t easy—she hid her face from acquaintances who might judge her—but her passion for spices and business kept her going. Starting with just a lemon tree in her backyard and making pickles to sell, Shams turned a small investment into a thriving business. As you’re guided to your table by her daughter, Eman, you’ll notice the place buzzing with life. Eman joins you at the table, her pride in her mother’s achievements evident in every word. Today, her restaurant, Shay Al-Shamoos, stands as a testament to her resilience and ingenuity.
Your visit to Shay Al-Shamoos restaurant in Doha isn’t just about the food—it’s about experiencing the journey of a woman who turned adversity into triumph. Shams didn’t just open a restaurant; she changed the perception of women in a traditionally male-dominated space. By breaking barriers and building a successful business from scratch, she’s shown what determination, creativity, and a little bit of spice can do. When you leave Shay Al-Shamoos, you won’t just feel full—you’ll feel inspired by Shams’ incredible story.
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Welcome to Shay Al-Shamoos: A Warm, Family-Like Greeting- Hello, Hello Hello!
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Let me take you to Shay Al-Shamoos, one of the best restaurants in Doha where the warmth of the welcome is as special as the food. As you walk in, you’re greeted with Shams’ signature “Hello, hello, hello!” She makes you feel like you’ve been friends forever, no matter who you are. You will soon feel like this isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place where you feel at home. As the first female entrepreneur in Souq Waqif, Shams has earned respect and love from everyone, and you’ll see that in the way she interacts with her guests.
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Shay Al Shamoos Menu: A Feast for the Senses
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Now, let me tell you about the incredible spread that awaits you. Imagine sitting down at a table filled with traditional and inventive dishes: baked beans, chickpeas, minced meat, eggs, pita bread, labneh, and so many other local specialties. Each bite brings a surprise, as the salty, savory, and sweet flavors intermingle, offering a true taste of Qatari breakfast culture. You’ll quickly see that every dish is crafted with love and creativity, making it a breakfast experience like no other.
Let me take you deeper into the menu with one of Shay Al-Shamoos’ most famous creations:
First up, there’s Baid o Tomate—a simple yet flavorful dish of eggs scrambled with tomatoes, seasoned just right to give you the comforting, homey taste of a classic Qatari breakfast.
Next, you’ll want to try the Baid Shakshoka, a variation of scrambled eggs, served with a blend of spices that adds depth to this already comforting dish.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different in the best Souq in Qatar, Aseeda, a local Porridge made from wheat or corn, is perfect for an energizing start to your day.
Or maybe you'd prefer the sweet and savory contrast of Balaleet—a sweet egg omelet dish made with vermicelli, turmeric, and a touch of sugar, creating a beautiful balance of flavors.
Now, if you're looking for something that feels like a celebration, let me tell you about Macboush—a hearty dish of rice cooked with your choice of chicken, lamb, or goat, and marinated in a rich tomato paste before being crisped in the oven. It’s a dish that will make you feel like you're part of something special, with every bite full of tradition and flavor.
Any visit to Shay Al-Shamoos, an amazing restaurant in Qatar is incomplete without savoring Khobiz Regag (crepe-like bread). What was once a simple flatbread has been reimagined by Shams in over 30 different ways. Whether filled with savory spices or served sweet, this is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep coming back to. Shams’ creativity has turned humble bread into a must-try delight.
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A Taste of Shams’ Legacy: Exploring Her Spice Shop
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Before you leave, let me show you something special—Shams’ spice shop next door. This is where it all began. The shelves are lined with vibrant jars of spices that Shams sources herself, traveling the world to find the best. Her father’s legacy as a spice trader is alive and well here, and you’ll get a sense of the rich history that’s woven into the flavors of her dishes. It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of Shay Al-Shamoos restaurant home with you.
Special Recognition to the Shay Al- Shamoos
Shay Al-Shamoos restaurant is not just about food—it’s about a journey into Qatari culture. This humble eatery is a symbol of the Shams’ journey and the strength of women’s financial independence in a society where their roles have traditionally been domestic. Her story became even more celebrated when Sheikha Moza herself visited the restaurant in 2014, giving it a stamp of approval. The walls of the restaurant are adorned with photos of regional celebrities, footballers, and food critics who’ve all experienced Shams' incredible hospitality and unique flavors.
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Additional Information About Shay Al- Shamoos
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Located in: Al Bidda Boutique Hotel - Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli
Opening Hours:
- Friday: 7:30 to 11 am
- Saturday: 7:30 am to 1 pm and 6:30 to 10 pm
Phone: +974 4444 2824
Other Spellings for the Name:
- Shai Al-Shemos
- Shay Al Shoomos
- Shay Al Shomous
- Shay al Shamoos
- Shay Al Shoomoos
Shai Shamoos Restaurant Menu:
- Baid o Tomate (Eggs and Tomato)
- Baid Shakshoka (Scrambled Eggs)
- Aseeda (Local Porridge)
- Khobiz Regag (Crepe-like Bread)
- Macboush (Rice with Chicken, Lamb, or Goat)
- Balaleet (Sweet Egg Omelet with Vermicelli)
- Karak Tea
Nearby Hotels:
- Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli
- Al Najada Hotel Doha by Tivoli
- Aljomrok Hotel
- Al Bidda Hotel
- Al Mirqab Hotel
- Bismillah Hotel
- Al Jasra Hotel
Nearby Attractions:
- Al Koot Fort
- Craft Center
- Souq Waqif Art Center
- The Golden Thumb Statue
- Pigeon Square and Gardens
So, next time you find yourself in Souq Waqif, make your way to Shay Al-Shamoos restaurant Doha. With authentic Qatari dishes and the top-notch service, Shay Al Shoomosin Doha is one of the best places to enjoy your meals with family. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth, flavor, and a sense of belonging. Trust me, when you walk out, you won’t just remember the food—you’ll remember the feeling of being welcomed like family. To experience the Qatari hospitality, book yourself one of our best Qatar tour packages and hop in such places offering authenticity.
Shay Al-Shamoos Restaurant Doha - FAQ’s
Shay Al-Shamoos offers traditional Qatari breakfast dishes with a creative twist. The menu include:
- Baid o Tomate (eggs with tomatoes)
- Baid Shakshoka (spiced scrambled eggs)
- Aseeda (local porridge)
- Balaleet (sweet egg omelet with vermicelli)
Shams Al-Qassabi is the first female entrepreneur in Souq Waqif, turning her passion for spices into a thriving restaurant. Shay Al-Shamoos celebrates her story of resilience and creativity in a traditionally male-dominated business space.
Dining here feels like visiting a friend’s home, with a warm greeting from Shams or Eman, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that captures Qatari culture.
The restaurant stands out for its inventive takes on traditional dishes, such as Khobiz Regag, and its warm, family-oriented atmosphere within the cultural heart of Souq Waqif.
Yes, the restaurant is perfect for families with its generous portions and relaxed vibe, where you can enjoy a meal together and experience local culture.
The restaurant is open on Friday from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and other days from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
Yes, the menu includes several vegetarian-friendly dishes like Baid o Tomate (eggs and tomato) and Aseeda (local porridge).
Yes, the spice shop next door offers a variety of spices sourced by Shams, where you can purchase ingredients used in her dishes.
Yes, Sheikha Moza visited the restaurant in 2014, highlighting its quality and contributing to its reputation.
It’s located in Al Bidda Boutique Hotel, within Souq Waqif, a vibrant market near attractions like Al Koot Fort and the Souq Waqif Art Center.