For superb French cuisine and the most spectacular views of the Dubai Fountain, we recommend Margaux. 

                     

The easy elegance of Margaux makes an impact as soon as you enter. The waiters were dressed to impress with their bistro-style black aprons and starched white shirts, and impress me they certainly did. The staff were excellent; friendly but not fawning, and efficient without being snooty.

Off to a Good Start

We were delighted to find a good selection of entrees. The Terrine de Foie Gras was silky smooth with pockets of sweetness from the marmalade. It was truly glorious - especially paired with a glass of Pinot Grinot. The lovely mélange of scallops, prawns and squid was drizzled with white coco bean puree, which deliciously imparted a subtle nutty flavour. My friend had Mozarella Burrata, which I begged to try. Cream and cheese oozed out as I speared a slice and now I completely understand why the Burrata is considered one of the best cheeses ever.

The Main Event

We opted for the beef fillet with truffle-mashed potatoes. Not wanting to part ways with our glass of white, we had a glass of Vintage 1998 Sauvignon Blanc, which was the perfect backdrop for the beef. I could actually smell the truffle from the mashed potatoes as soon as it was set on the table. I effortlessly sliced through the beef fillet. Pink in the middle and nicely done near the edges, it got full marks for a perfect medium-well. The thin and delectable beef jus complemented the fillet and was just so delicious; I embarrassed myself by mopping my plate with the toast.

Sweet Ending

What better way to cap our French gastronomic adventure than with a serving of Île flotante (floating island) and a glass of Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc. The soft meringue nestled on a bed of rich and creamy vanilla custard and crowned by a gossamer dome of spun caramel was quite literally heaven in a bowl.

With a style uniquely Chef Julien Mercier’s own, tinted with shades of Chef Alain Ducasse, rare and vintage wines from an 800 strong wine list, and the most magnificent view of the fountains, Margaux makes certain you have a gastronomically memorable evening.

Margaux

Where: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Burj Dubai

T: 04 439 7555

By Yvette Aldeguer

November 2009