I’ve made it to Fujairah a few times during my time in the region — always as a weekend staycation destination, a place to get away from the busy life in Dubai. There’s something special about driving through the dunes, then over the mountain to the sleepy emirate on the coast. With plenty of room for improvement in the market (especially within the luxury arena), I was over the moon to get an invite to the launch of one of the newly opened Fairmont Fujairah’s properties, the Copper Lobster.
With a selection of plates from the upcoming menu, this sneak preview yielded a lot to get excited about. With a relaxed atmosphere (complete with clever nautical touches), I was happy to meet foodies and influencers from some of the other Emirates at the family style tables that had been prepared. (I also thought it was fantastic to see a large number of the local population had been invited).
After enjoying some drinks and nibbles at the bar (a separate dining area), the appetizers started on a strong note with the Trio Tartar (including tuna, salmon, and lobster — why aren’t more restaurants offering this combo?), Lobster Mac & Cheese (order your own, because you won’t want to share all that lobster and gruyere cream goodness), and Burrata Alla Romana. Of the three, I thought the burrata could be improved a bit — as the cheese was not up to my levels of creaminess or portion size, but I did like the introduction of artichoke, which added a nice bit of sharpness and contrast. Prices were not listed on the provided menu, but I would expect them to be in line with the local market.
For our collection of mains, we were treated to Fujairah Clay Pot Harra Lobster, Paella, and a brilliantly cooked Tomahawk Rib Eye. While I thought the clay pot might offer up a creamier sauce, it instead was made with a spiced tomato sauce (after some debate and confirmation from the chef, we concluded the sweetness came from cinnamon). I loved the flaky pastry that topped the dish (and would’ve enjoyed even more lobster). I don’t think I’ve admitted this before, but Paella is just one of those dishes I don’t like. I know, along with my aversion to most forms of Foie gras, my foodie card should be taken away. However, I can admit that the presentation of (almost) everyone’s favorite seafood sharing dish was a stunner and full of shrimp, squid, and mussels. I enjoyed the rib eye (Salt Bae worthy, y’all), which was served with an absolutely out of this world sauce.
Of the two sides that were presented, I thought the grilled baby gems (with lobster reduction and crispy polenta) were the highlight. They added the right amount of crunch (and some vegetable element) to the meal.
The meal ended with a large signature dessert platter, which was a fun sharing option full of different kinds of sweets, and another idea I thought other restaurants might benefit in ‘borrowing’ from.
For my suggestions, I would like to see what further vegetarian and non-seafood options are available. Similarly, I would be curious to see what other sides and less hearty fare might be available (some sort of shrimp salad, for example).
Worth noting, the restaurant (not only at the Copper Lobster, but the entire property) believe in a commitment to sourcing locally whenever possible. This point was highlighted by not only the executive chef, but also multiple members of the Fairmont team.
Would I return to the venue? Yes! In fact, from what I know of Fujairah, I wouldn’t be surprised if this restaurant quickly becomes the top spot in the city.
What’s your favorite restaurant in Fujairah?
A to Za’atar was a guest of Fairmont and the Copper Lobster. Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.