B-Lounge unquestionably deserves an A rating for everything from the amazing ambiance to the delectable food, but as our most recent visit shows, service still needs improvement before it reaches that level.
The environment will be the first thing to impress you, so let’s start there. The patio, which views out over the marina, will make a wonderful backdrop for any photograph, especially at dusk. Both spaces, which are divided into a restaurant on the ground floor and a lounge on the second floor that puts the lounge in B-Lounge, are chic and contemporary with copper tones, patterned wall tiles, and cloth that hangs from the ceiling to resemble sails.
We start our meal with the sushi that B-Lounge is famous for after shooting a gazillion pictures. Although the veggie rolls with asparagus and mushrooms and the spicy and crunchy tuna rolls live up to their names, those who want to overindulge can order a plate of either 20 or 36 pieces. Fans of dim sum should choose the tom yum-sauced lobster dumplings, which are also a great choice, and edamame is always a good choice.
With entrees like ceviche, miso black cod, and chicken kung pao, you can explore all of Asia. For those who have already overindulged on sushi, a smaller dish from the robata grill would be a terrific way to end the evening, especially if you choose the avocado flame. The Thai red shrimp curry is also excellent. Of course, you may always end the meal with a sweet treat like the miso cheesecake or mochi.
The B-Lounge is renowned for its cocktails as well. It has a wide selection of mixed drinks, some of which are unusual tea-infused drinks. We would have wanted to sample more mocktails, but the service is consistently exceedingly slow. We might tolerate a staff shortage, but unfortunately our server appears to forget about our table, so we end up waiting far longer than we would have wanted.
We believe B-Lounge will lead the pack if the service is raised to the customary five-star Ritz-Carlton level.
Sat. through Thurs. noon to midnight; Fri. 1pm to midnight. West Bay Lagoon, The Ritz-Carlton Doha, and loungedoha.com (5080 4421).
