Dubai: Growing up in a family of fish lovers from Kolkata, I have often been frowned upon for not showing enough reverence for marine life served on a platter. Such is my dislike (read abhorrence at times) for shrimp, squid and everything fishy, that I have even been chided for apparently failing to appreciate a truly wonderful food. After a full blown lunch at the Fish Bazaar in the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort and Spa last week, I could understand why.
Idyllically located amongst the luscious palm trees and facing the beach, this relaxed dining place offers every scrumptious fish dish under the sun. From a fish market to Thai specialities and a live cooking station, Fish Bazaar is warm and welcoming with a large terrace for al fresco dining and peafowls and other birds nearby.
Tasty prawn crackers served with four types of sauces including lemon garlic chilli and sweet chilli welcome you instantly. Have that with a Thai iced tea made with fresh milk and ice or a signature Lemon Grass Ginger while you wait for the food. Order whatever you can but don’t miss out on their ‘Goong Ma Prawn Dill’ - deep fried shrimps coated with coconut dill crumbs. So mind-blowing is a bite of it that you could come back only for this one starter. Their jumbo prawns, grilled delectably with subtle garlic and pepper and mildly spiced, are worth a try as well.
I have had squid before but nothing like their deep fried tempura style squid in garlic and black pepper sauce! The one I loved most though after the shrimp starter was their fried hammour in a delicious thick Thai curry garnished with fresh pepper. The local catch couldn’t have tasted better than this one made with yellow curry powder and coconut milk.
Still not keen on seafood? You could try their beef satay served with a fabulous peanut sauce or a subtly spicy chicken green curry with eggplant. Plus there are wonderful desserts in a fried icecream and a banana boat. No one goes home disappointed but honestly, it’s all in the fish!
Details:
Lunch for two: Dh400 (approx)
Location: Habtoor Grand Beach Resort and Spa, Jumeirah Beach
Timing: 12.30pm to 11.30pm
Bookings: 04-408 4210
We recommend: Lemon Grass Ginger, deep fried shrimps, grilled jumbo prawn
