Excellent flavours. Wallet-friendly prices. Big portions. And a good all-round experience.
Nonna Zanon’s has shot up to the top of our Italian list.
And has definitely made it into our Doha Top Ten.
What I like most about it is the concept: Nonna is Italian for Grandmother, and the dishes reflect all the Italian classics that are shared at home. On first read the menu at Nonna Zanon seems a little unimaginative, yet these simple, classic dishes, use great fresh and tasty ingredients and are beautifully crafted. The attention to detail that was put into presentation left me wondering whether we were actually in a 5-star hotel. What is also good to see is the presence of the executive chef who keeps an eye on all tables and wanders over for a chat. It’s nice to see real pride and passion, and we enjoyed finding out a little more about our meals, which wouldn’t have happened had he kept himself in the kitchen.
Another plus point of Nonna Zanon is the free local water that’s been infused with lemon and rosemary, such a refreshing thing to see and drink.
What we ate:
Turkey ham croquette served with toasted bread
What a lovely surprise. I think they must have heard our rumbling bellies from the kitchen. This dish was served courtesy of the chef. Beautifully presented I almost felt a little guilty of smashing this over the toast and sprinkling it with sea salt. We all looked around very happily at each other, because if this small sample of the chef’s expertise was anything to go by, we were in for a treat.
Appetiser
Melanzzane alla parmigiana
Layers of lovely thinly sliced aubergine, with a rich and generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan. This has to be one of favourite Italian dishes and it vanished quickly as if it had never been served.
Main courses
Fettuccine “Cacio e pepe”
Fettuccine with cheese and black pepper
Little sis ordered this, and the smiling continued. A delicious combination of creamy cheese and the hit of black pepper ensured her fork was kept busy. Even though the portion size defeated her, she was happy to have something to enjoy a day later.
Rigatoni alla Bolognese
I ordered this huge bowl of pasta, and it helped me relive some fond memories of our weekly family favourite. Ours was often put together with a jar of shop bought sauce and some dried herbs and it wasn’t a patch on this authentic and flavorful bowl. While our family spaghetti drowned in its sauce this pasta had a lovely light sheen of sauce with every bite.
Pizza roast beef cipolla e scamorza
Pizza with roast beef, caramalised onion and scamoza cheese
Wow! All eyes were on this beauty with its bubbly, crisp crust. We learnt that it had been made using fermented dough, which was why if tasted reminiscent of sourdough bread: light and airy yet still denser than most thin crusts. And the toppings were full of flavour: smoky cheese, tender strips of roast beef and sweet caramalised onions with a scattering of fresh rosemary had Mr L& M keeping a watchful eye on his dish.
Dessert
Tiramisu
Although we were all happily stuffed we couldn’t leave without trying their Tiramisu. Armed with a spoon each, this dessert didn’t hang around for very long. It had nice coffee-infused sponge layers to balance the rich cream. Next time it’s a must that we each have our own.
What we learnt the hard way: There was nothing to really fault here. Our only criticism would be the slightly over-attentive service, which seemed neither relaxed or fluid. For example, our takeaway bag was placed on the table before we’d ordered dessert and coffee. No biggie, but it was at times like this that it felt more awkward than congenial. Oh and bring a cardigan, scarf or another layer, as the air con was fierce.
The damage: 245 QR for two lemon and mints, one appetizer, three main courses and one dessert which we though was extremely good value for money.
L&M rating: 4.5/5
Update- Nonna Zanon is now closed permanently.
Lemon & Mint
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