Let’s establish some truths first.
Fact number one: Expensive doesn’t always mean good food.
Fact number two: Everybody loves to eat.
Fact number three: Everybody loves to eat cheap!
Bin Mahmoud is sort of like an oasis to a foodie. It will satisfy most of your cravings and you’ll never get bored as there are plenty of options. No exaggeration. Here are some of the best bargain eats in the area.
Tofu House
Who’s hungry? (Photo: Facebook)
The king of Al Jazeera Street. This Korean restaurant is the best in the area IMHO. Their jjampong and chicken wings (Korean style) are enough reason for you to visit this joint. They recently expanded and now has a bigger dining space but is usually packed in the evening so it is best to call and reserve a table in advance.
Khao San
Sawadee khrup! (Photo: Facebook)
The new player in the vicinity. I had the green curry tofu when I first went to this restaurant and it did not disappoint. I love it mak mak. It gives you that feeling of being in one of those eateries in Bangkok. The staff (who are mostly Filipinos I believe) are very attentive and they engage customers in small talks (so you don’t feel alone when dining by yourself lol).
I want my Mango Sticky Rice now…
Falafel Al-Akawi
On a tight budget? Then Falafel Al-Akawi can be your best friend especially during that critical week before month-end. A basic falafel sandwich from this joint is four riyals. Yes, FOUR. Service is quick, food is tasty, prices are super affordable. Plus many say this is one of the best falafel places in Doha. And did I mention they are open 24/7? Go now. No judgment here.
Empty tummy no more! (Photo: Facebook)
Silversticks
Why did I give up meat again? (Photo: Facebook)
Who doesn’t like shawarma? C’mon, it’s the ultimate comfort food (Khaleeji-style). And for a small price (12 riyals), you can have a big chicken shawarma sandwich which again, in my opinion, is really yummy (my pretentious plant-based self is aching to have one at this very moment). They also have grilled meats and seafood in their menu so choices are not limited.
Al Aker Sweets
Ricotta overload!
Craving for something sweet? It was only recently when I found out about their branch on Al Jazeera Street and now it’s just a short walk from home to get fresh from the oven knafeh (the best Middle Eastern dessert IMO). Lucky me!
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So give those fancy schmancy restaurants a rest and go cheap. There will be no need to dress-up and your bank account will sing you praises if you do. But just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean you have an excuse to eat two servings. Everything in moderation, please.
B3W
BATANG THIRD WORLD 