The battle of the steakhouses is hotting up in Abu Dhabi. Competition is already fierce in the capital, and now there’s a new contender to challenge the established order.
JW Steakhouse enters the fray with quite a reputation to live up to. This is the Marriott chain’s signature restaurant, billed as a contemporary take on the classic American steakhouse.
And first impressions are good. You’ll be greeted at the entrance and walked through grand double doors into the sleek dining area. It’s a bright space, decked out in light colour tones, with a huge open kitchen.
The menu, too, will pique your interest. It’s a simple, one-page affair, but there are some intriguing options. Plenty of seafood makes an appearance amid the starters, including a deconstructed prawn cocktail. The dainty presentation and refined flavours are far removed from what you would expect of a steakhouse.
But what about the meat? After all, that’s what you’ll be here for. Australian, American and Irish cuts are available, but it’s definitely worth seeking a recommendation from the staff. This is where JW Steakhouse stands out. Descriptions are detailed and delivered with authority.
It’s no surprise that the meat is high in quality, and that the cooking is perfect. Served on the restaurant’s signature silver bull-horn plates, your steak will look as good as it tastes.
One sauce is included with the meat, and sides can be added (avoid getting carried away with these, or the bill will leave you wincing). But add a couple of well-chosen, hearty adornments and you’ll have a satisfying meal. Whatever you order, it won’t be cheap. But this challenger from the Marriott will be going toe-to-toe with the capital’s best steakhouses.
The bill (for one)
1x prawn cocktail Dhs85
1x Australian tenderloin (200g) Dhs190
1x Yukon gold mashed potato Dhs30
1x cheese cake Dhs35
1x small water Dhs25
Total (including taxes) Dhs467
The bottom line
A slick dining experience from a confident restaurant.
