Sky, literally, was the limit at the Dinner in the Sky brought by Qatar Airways to the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) for the third consecutive year.
By Raynald C Rivera
ky, literally, was the limit at the Dinner in the Sky brought by Qatar Airways to the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) for the third consecutive year.
The recently concluded QIFF, co-hosted by Qatar Airways, was a big draw attracting a record 200,000 visitors to its three locations, the main venue of which was the Museum of Islamic Art Park which saw the most number of offerings including Qatar Airways’ signature Dinner in the Sky.
As in its previous editions, Dinner in the Sky was a main attraction at the festival and it never disappointed food lovers with its five-star fare coupled with an exhilarating dining experience high up in the air.
Having missed it for two consecutive years, I was thrilled to finally make it to the lunch hosted especially for the media. Fine dining 165 feet above the ground is definitely not for the faint hearted but for the intrepid foodie in search of unique gastronomic journey.
Twenty-two people are seated around a bar table comfortably and securely with a four-point strap system. The seats are able to rotate 180 degrees providing the guest an excellent vista of the varying Doha scenery.
From the picturesque Corniche to the iconic Museum of Islamic Art to the futuristic Doha skyline, the view from the dining table is truly a sight to behold which makes it a must for every guest to capture them on lens as the dining box slowly rotates giving the guest a full view of the city.
Catching a glimpse of some of the city’s landmarks from above is like seeing the city for the first time even to those who claim to be already familiar with the city.
The feeling of being high up in the air is a rare experience so as eating the delectable fare which promises “A Taste of Business Class” with a menu prepared by the national carrier’s star chefs.
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Dinner in the Sky, although present in more than 40 countries, has been made one of a kind by the national airline to suit its unique concept of providing the guests a memorable experience as if boarding a business class flight from its exquisite business class menu to its renowned five star service.
The food trip begins even before boarding the ‘flying’ dinner table. A Business Class Lounge was set up where the guest enjoys a pre-flight experience. Spice crab and mango salsa and crostini is served along with a choice of fresh juices.
As the guest takes his seat, a staff makes sure the seatbelt is securely fastened to ensure safety during the entire 30-minute dining. The pesto marinated chicken, plum tomato and mozzarella salad blends well with basil dressing providing the guest scrumptious cold starter as the dining table is slowly hoisted in the air.
There were four choices for the main course but I opted for sea food which comprised grilled lobster, shaari fish and prawns seasoned with lemon and dill sauce and served with zerash rice, bell peppers and khousa.
It was a rare experience savouring every bite as the afternoon breeze caresses my face while enjoying the breathtaking sights in the warm company of colleagues.
But every meal is not complete without dessert which is served at the Lounge just after disembarking from the dining table.
Truly, Dinner in the Sky is a must-try for every diner who wants to enjoy exquisite tastes from around the world and an unparalleled view of Doha.
The Peninsula
