If you consider yourself a committed carnivore then Abu Dhabi really is a prime dining destination.
The capital is home to a juicy selection of brilliant steakhouses, including our current best in the city, Butcher & Still, perennial awards contender The Foundry and classy JW Steakhouse.
The abundance of premium options means other eateries with lots to offer can get lost in the shake-up.
So we are glad to pay a visit to The Capital Grill, based in the impressive Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, to see how it matches up with the culinary competition.
First impressions are very good. We’re hear alone tonight, but far from feeling awkward, we’re immediately won over by the sleek venue, complete with an open kitchen to watch the chefs at work, which is lent a warm, romantic feel by the low-lighting and striking décor.
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering advice on the cuts of meats and the sauces to accompany them.
We start with pan-seared scallops, which are beautifully presented and taste good, too. The scallops have a lovely soft texture and the sweet taste is enriched by a flavoursome pumpkin purée.
Scanning the menu for the steak of our choice, we are happy to see a good selection of prime cuts from America, Ireland and Australia.
We opt for an Australian tenderloin served with béarnaise sauce and creamy garlic mash. While the meat is full of flavour, our medium rare cut is more on the rare side than we would have liked. It would be perfect for some, but it’s just not how we asked for it.
Despite ending on a rather flat note, we feel we want to give The Capital Grill another try. The chilled-out ambience, friendly staff and good-value food mean it is well worth a visit, even if it is not quite ready to turn up the heat on the city’s very best steakhouses.
The bill (for one)
1x seared scallops Dhs86.40
1x Australian tenderloin Dhs266
1x Coke Dhs21.60
Total (including taxes) Dhs374
The bottom line
Fine venue but food lacks a little sizzle.
