While this definitely sounds a bit patronising, we’re always pleasantly surprised by how good the service and quality of food is in the Southern Sun’s restaurants and bars. The hotel group is by no means the biggest name in the city and flies a little under the radar, but what it does, it does very well.
The Foundry, a former Time Out Restaurant Award winner no less, and current Highly Commended Best Steakhouse, always leaves us with full bellies and huge smiles. This visit is no different.
The dining room, early evening on a weeknight, is pretty quiet, but that doesn’t really affect the vibe during our meal and the warm welcome from the staff certainly thaws out any any worries of a cold atmosphere.
In fact, staff here really should be praised. Not many places consistently offer the same high standard of service, even though team members come and go.
There are lots of little things that help make a meal here memorable, from the complimentary welcome mixed drink or mocktail (only a short measure, but nonetheless, a nice touch) to the free bite-size cakes at the end for dessert. And, if you want a full-size pudding, slices of the cake of the day are just Dhs15.
Value for money is a big deal when deciding whether to eat out now, but we can vouch for The Foundry, alongside JW Steakhouse, as a venue that doesn’t make going out for a steak prohibitive.
We start with salmon and crab croquettes and Black Angus beef carpaccio. The latter is delightful, dotted with garlic aioli, sprinkled with toasted pine nuts and drizzled with a light truffle oil, it’s a brilliant medley of flavours and textures. We don’t love the croquettes as much, but there’s no faulting them.
Mains of a seafood platter (pictured) and an Argentinian fillet steak are also exemplary. We share both, the pile of seafood too much for one person, despite ordering the smaller version. Scallops, lobster and tiger prawns are superb, while the baby octopus is the only disappointment.
A side of sweet potato chips (read, crisps) aren’t what we expect and go untouched. We’d have liked some big chunky chips on the menu, but maybe that’s just us.
Forget being an underdog, The Foundry is a big hitter.
WHAT IS IT…
An unpretentious steakhouse
WHY GO…
The extras are a lovely touch
