Most of us are familiar with the charismatic celebrity chef, Marco Pierre White, from his many television appearances showcasing his artistic flair, unpredictable temperament and unquestionable talent in all things ‘foodie,’ and I for one, have always been intrigued to sample his culinary genius first-hand, so when KM were invited for our own Marco Pierre White experience in the UAE’s capital at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, we jumped at the chance!
The dramatic interior design provides the typical ‘Steakhouse’ backdrop with a chic twist. Traditional wood panelling and detail, immaculately laid linen tables flanked by sizeable high-backed leather chairs and the pièce de résistance of a back lit ‘flame’ wall that sets the ambience alight – quite literally – and evokes a cosy and intimate feel to the dining space.
We are shown to our romantic table in the corner and sink into the comfortable leather armchairs as the waiter attentively offers us an aperitif. We accept a strong recommendation for a British cocktail with a twist and the ‘drinks’ trolley is presented to us boasting the finest selection – said to be unrivalled in the UAE – of a particular favourite aperitif together with some fresh ingredients and the expert mixologist sets to work extracting the juice from orange peel and the flavour of a cinnamon stick using the naked flame of a match. Sloe berries are added and a boutique tonic water is poured over a generous amount of ice into a large glass specifically used in order to allow the flavours to infuse – if the aperitif is prepared with such performance, I can’t wait to sample the food!
The menu’s concise and efficient layout serves to help diners make an optimum selection without being overly spoilt for choice however, each and every dish is mouth-wateringly tempting and this is a stumbling block for us foodies! Diners can enjoy a range of seafood, meat and vegetarian dishes for each course and the main event – the steaks – have an ‘extras’ menu, which is too tempting for words… lobster tail, caviar, foie gras all feature.
We eventually settle on one of Marco’s signature starters; Broiled Bone Marrow with garlic and parsley served with Ciabatta Bread and a dozen Fine de Claire oysters to start with followed by the 150g Master Kobe +9 served with a lobster tail and Café de Paris butter and the 150g Wagyu beef served with stilton fondue sauce together with creamed spinach and truffle mash. Sheldon, the Manager of MPW (and Frankie’s), steps in to be our Sommelier and pairs our grape selection to our dishes perfectly, even surprising us with a new favourite!
The bone marrow is smooth and silky and spreads effortlessly onto the grilled ciabatta toast almost like butter. It has a delicate flavour – not too overpowering – and is pleasantly rich without spoiling one’s appetite for what is to come. The oysters were a presentation in themselves – a remarkably fresh aroma of the sea emanated from them and immediately transported me to a seaside setting. They were beautifully fresh and whet my appetite for the main course.
As we pause between courses, the waiter presents us with a selection of handcrafted steak knives each with a unique handle and different finish and we are invited to choose one for our main course. The particular brand of steak knives procured by MPW are said to be the ‘Rolls Royce’ of steak knives – Marco apparently insisted on offering his diners the best for his fine cuts of meat.
And so the meat arrives, cooked to perfection (returned to the oven briefly after cooking to achieve a smoky outer crust) and as requested, medium rare. The knife cuts through the Wagyu like butter and the meat melts in the mouth. The Stilton fondue is divine and seems to bring out the flavour of the meat rather than overpower it. Interestingly, the Master Kobe is slightly chewier and more textured than the Wagyu but its marbling provides a rich flavour that is complimented by the subtly flavoured lobster tail and salty Café de Paris butter. The side dishes are smooth, creamy and indulgent – apt accompaniments to such world-class cuts of meat. We are left feeling utterly spoilt and full and have to have our arm twisted to venture on to dessert, but the lemon torte served with homemade ice cream tempts us and it rounds off the meal perfectly.
We are reluctant to leave the comfort of the sumptuous armchairs, but alas, the evening draws to a close bringing our culinary extravaganza to an end. We leave vowing to return and with exceptional value available on their Wednesday evening promotions at MPW, we won’t have to wait for a special occasion to do so. Whether you choose to indulge in the A La Carte menu or avail of their regular promotions, which offer diners the MPW experience on a budget, we highly recommend you pay this esteemed establishment a visit – you won’t be disappointed!
CURRENT PROMOTIONS
CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE CUT
Certified Angus Beef T – bone steak 500g
Certified Black Angus Beef Bone- In Rib Eye 500g
USDA Prime Striploin 350g
USDA Prime Rib Eye 350g
All steaks are served with, Italian veal sausage, Triple cooked chips, Crispy parmesan & Herb Onion rings, Garlic Sautéed Mushrooms, Asparagus, Baby Carrots, Sautéed Spinach, Potato Dauphinoise and Tomatoes confit.
Pepper Corn (A) Bordelaise (A) Mushroom Béarnaise
AED 195 – Soft drinks included
AED 250 – Soft drinks and free flow selected House beverages included
AED 325 – Soft drinks, free flow of selected House beverages and premium grape selection
All prices are subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% Municipality fees (A) Dish contains alcohol
Meat lovers! Take on the Tomahawk!
1kg | 30 Minutes |No Excuses
Accompanied by 1 Litre Hops/Soft Drinks
Charcoal Grilled Tomahawk (1kg) Served with Garlic mashed potatoes, Sautéed mushrooms Asparagus, Baby carrots, Tomatoes confit and Peppercorn sauce (A)
Free if you clear your plate and finish the accompanied beverage
Or AED 650
#MPWTomahawkChallenge
All prices are subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% Municipality fees (A) Dish contains alcohol
For Reservations, call: 02 654 3238
For More Information, visit: http://www.fairmont.com/abu-dhabi/dining/marcopierrewhitesteakhouseandgrill/
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