In a fiercely competitive market such as the UAE, dinning spots need to continually refresh to keep increasingly restless food lovers interested. Such was the case with the Fairmont The Palm’s Seagrill on 25 who recently launched their new menu. While the four year-old restaurants’s signature seafood ethos has not changed, Greek Chef de cuisine Dimitris Lazarou says the aim of the new offerings is too keep things healthy without losing the flavour: “With the healthy and balanced lifestyle that we at the hotel are trying to promote, new menu offers a variety of healthy food creations with a strong organic component that is usually challenging to find in this energetic city.” That said, I payed the visit to the Seagrill on 25 for a weeknight dinner.
The location
The beauty of the Fairmont The Palm is that unlike many of its neighbouring rivals, there are no nightclubs. Hence, a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere is assured throughout the resort. The Sea Grill on 25 is located on right of the outdoor corridor leading from the hotel’s interior towards the sea. Nestled in a prime location, the serene spot allows you to dine beside the infinity pool — which is tastefully lit during the evenings — all the while being close enough to the beach to hear the sounds of the waves.
The atmosphere
Chilled and elegant. The Sea on Grill harnesses that balance between fine dining and laid back charm. This is mostly down to the spacious design that makes most of the natural sunlight and coastal decor with its plush marble-like columns, white straw chairs and azure coloured cushions. It is the unobtrusive and attentive staff that reminds me that I am eating in a sophisticated restaurant as opposed to a beach side cafe.
The food
Light work in the best way. Seagrill on 25 does a fine job in matching its breezy surroundings with a range of well sized dishes both fresh and bold enough to pack a hefty dose of flavour.
The Seafood linguini was solid; the muscular tastes of the mussels, shrimp and squid were offset with a fresh tomato sauce. More big flavours were on offer with the Truffle and Shrimp Risotto (Dh170) — shrimp pieces were hearty and matched well with the perfectly cooked risotto sautéed with a light creamy buttery sauce.
The winner for me was the stunningly looking Lobster Burger (Dh140), served on black brioche bread. The lobster shreds were sizeable and ever so juicy, the coleslaw salad filling and a rather nifty smoked tomato sauced capped off what is a must-try dish for all burger lovers.
The verdict
The new treats at Seagrill on 25 are fun and flavoursome. Paired with the great view, it makes for a fine night out.
The National was a guest of the venue.
sasaeed@thenational.ae
