By Mohamad Bwary
When it comes to Arabic sweets there are hundreds, if not thousands, of option all around Qatar. So to authoritatively identify the best place for Arabic sweet is going to be controversial. But in the interest of foodies in Qatar we did a little research and asked around to find the best Kanafeh in town (also spelt Kunafeh or Kunafah).
The recommendation you get for Arabic sweets depends on the nationality of the person you ask. But when it comes to Kanafeh, majority of the people we asked were unanimous in their choice of Al Nashama Restaurant & Sweets, an old sweet shop tucked away in busy Al Muntazah.
They have one of the best Kanafeh or kunafah in town. A few other shops popped up, but were a tad less tasty and a bit more expensive than Al Nashama.
Al Nashama has been making the most delicious and fresh cheese Kanafeh in town for decades at a very affordable price. Generations of sweet lovers swear by their Kenafah Nabulsia and Kenafah Khishna. We also liked Kunafa bel Qeshta (Bain Narain), with cream not the usual cheese. Kanafeh is popularly known to have originated in the Palestinian city of Nablus, hence the name Nabulsieh.
Some other sweets worth a try are Lebanese Nights, Harissa (semolina cake), Halawet El Jibn and Othmaliye.
They have a dine-in facility, which is very basic and décor is very unappealing. Then you are not here for fine dining. Unless you are a purist and want to consume your Kanafeh fresh and hot, its better to take home and chill with friends and family.
Incase, if you dont know what we are talking about then kunafeh is a cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup with a tinge of rose water garnished with crushed pistachios, found in most Arabic countries and is best eaten fresh. You can see a lot of cafes selling only Kanafeh in many cities like Amman and the one in Al Nashama tatstes just like the one from there.
Must try: Kenafah Nabulsia and Kenafah Khishna
Other notables: Lebanese Nights, Harissa (semolina cake), Halawet El Jibn and Othmaliye.
Price: Very pocket friendly. They charge QR7 for a small plate, QR13 for medium and QR20 for large. If you want to indulge go for 1kg at QR50.
The Peninsula
