We may or may not have already established that my first port of call in Dubai (circa 2007) was Dubai Festival City.\u00a0 Thus, I have an exceptional place in my heart for the entire property.\u00a0 Friendships that started at the golf club course, beautiful weddings attended,\u00a0and discovering what expat life was all about during\u00a0our weekly shop at Hyper Panda (or, as one friend used\u00a0to affectionately call it, ‘Disco Panda’).\u00a0 Before I seriously got into fine dining, one of my finest UAE dining experiences at the now-shuttered Reflets, so I’m always curious to see what changes happen in the area.<\/p>\n

Thus, entering the Intercontinental Festival City for me comes with a greater expectation than most.\u00a0 Fortunately, I was immediately greeted by an airy and elevated space. Replacing what used to be the Bistro Madeline (?), the interior at The Fish House<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0instantly appeals to my style — not overly fussy, with plenty of room for diners to relax.\u00a0 Chalkboards dot the area, listing what fish is available and for what cost.\u00a0 After choosing a large table by the open air patio (soaking up as much of these winter months as possible) we are warmly met first by the hostess, and next by the general manager.\u00a0 After a quick discussion and review of the menu, we decide to place our trust in Mr. Nicholas, who sends forward a selection of starters.\u00a0 Of the group, the Charcoal Grilled Octopus (AED70)<\/em> and Fragrant Cured Salmon (AED75)<\/em> are the winners, although my guest and I both love the unique presentation (and taste) of The Fish House Prawn Cocktail (AED85)<\/em>. The slight sweetness of the salmon (a touch of maple syrup in the curing process — not overpowering) and the perfect cook on the octopus place these appetizers in the ‘order on arrival’ category.<\/p>\n

A question as to whether or not the Oysters (AED115 for nine pieces)<\/i> are from Dibba Bay (a local offer from Fujairah) is met with a ‘we’re trying.’\u00a0 I’ll definitely let this answer slide, as The Fish House works with local UAE suppliers for their fish.\u00a0 Overall, I would happily order each of the starters again (although I wouldn’t share the octopus with anyone else).\u00a0 As you might imagine, dishes can easily be split, and are rather generous for two people.<\/p>\n

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Scenes from lunch yesterday @thefishhousedubai \ud83d\ude0d<\/a><\/p>\n

A post shared by Courtney Brandt<\/a> (@atozaatar) on Feb 22, 2018 at 11:56pm PST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n