Michelin-starred restaurant eyes GCC growth

A Michelin-starred Cantonese fine dining concept popular with Hollywood stars is set to open in Doha, following successful launches in the UAE.

Hakkasan is due to open its doors on January 16 at The St Regis Doha hotel.

The opening follows the successful operations of Hakkasan in Abu Dhabi and Dubai as it looks to expand in the Gulf region.

Designed by Woods Bagot UK, Hakkasan Doha features a private valet service entrance set within the gardens of the St Regis Hotel Doha.

The new 120 cover restaurant includes an additional capacity of 60 seats on an outside terrace.

Niall Howard, CEO, Hakkasan, said: "The opening of Hakkasan Doha highlights our success in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It was only logical to bring Hakkasan to Doha and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with The St Regis Doha."

Head chef Lai Min Wei, formerly of Hakkasan Dubai has overseen the creation and preparation of the Hakkasan menu which has been rigorously tested and tweaked in order to ensure the highest of standards, he added.

Hakkasan Doha will include signature dishes found across its restaurants including Peking Duck with Caviar, Jasmine Tea smoked Wagyu Beef Ribs and Grilled Chilean Seabass with Chinese Honey.

Tareq Derbas, general manager of The St Regis Doha, said: "The opening of such an iconic restaurant within our grounds is a testament to the vision and drive of our owners. Hakkasan Doha will offer our guests an experience that will be unmatched in Doha."

Since the opening of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Hakkasan has attracted celebrity diners including Uma Thurman, Morgan Freeman, and Clive Owen.

Derbas said since its 2001 opening in London, Hakkasan has developed a loyal following across its US, UK and Middle Eastern restaurants.