Ever since reading about The Emireati’s experience<\/a>\u00a0at Prime 68<\/a><\/strong>, the venue has been on my radar.\u00a0 Having had a delightful visit to Garden<\/a> earlier in the year, I knew I was due to a follow up to the JW Marriott Marquis and a Wednesday in May proved perfect timing for a long overdue catch up with one of my oldest Dubai friends.\u00a0 After stopping in for a quick drink at Weslodge<\/a> (honestly, is there a better place for sundowners in Dubai?), we went back down the lifts and crossed over to the South Tower to the 68th floor and the stunning Prime 68.\u00a0 Now, I had a bit of a clue as to what to expect, but my friend went in without any previous research.\u00a0 Both of us were stunned by the beautiful views, and I was glad we timed our visit for near sundown.\u00a0 While I think the design is perhaps a bit dated for my preferences, the spacing of the main dining room is such that each table has a decent amount of privacy.<\/p>\n

We arrived in time for the early bird special which is an absolute steal at AED200 for a 3-course meal (available between 6-7PM every day).\u00a0 \u00a0I realize many people choose to enjoy a later dinner, but\u00a0really, I think it’s well worth making arrangments to take advantage of this deal (either that or be sure to have your Entertainer app handy for later reservations).\u00a0 Glancing at the menu, there are three choices of starters and mains, and two options for dessert.\u00a0 However, the team is generous enough to indulge us in trying all of the appetizers.\u00a0 To start, I was surprised when an amuse bouche was offered\u00a0— which was an unexpected but appreciated start to our meal.\u00a0 Both served in cocktail glasses, I enjoyed a butternut squash soup (complete with crispy\u00a0cheese crostini), while my friend received a salad, prepared to work around her allergies.\u00a0 These were served along with a loaf of heavenly fresh bread.\u00a0 So far, so good.<\/p>\n

While we reviewed the wine list with the help of the general manager, our starters arrive — first, in the form of a fresh, wonderfully dressed Cesar salad<\/em>, which quickly moves up the list to become one of my favorite versions in the city.\u00a0 Honestly, it is a difficult balance to manage the sauce to lettuce ratio.\u00a0 The salad is served along with Smoked Potato\u00a0<\/i>Gnocchi<\/em>, and Wagyu Meatballs<\/em>.\u00a0 For me, the gnocchi is a bit too smoky, such that I think I would prefer the tomato and cheese flavors to shine through a bit more.\u00a0 Similarly, the wagyu meatballs, while an entirely generous portion size, have just a bit too much sauce for me.<\/p>\n

For the mains, there is no question — we both happily choose the US Tenderloin 200g<\/em>, served with mashed potatoes, asparagus, and peppercorn jus.\u00a0 Everything is exactly as I want it, and after a few disappointing steaks in the year (Beefbar<\/a>, I’m looking at you), it was lovely to receive a steak, cooked to a true Medium Rare, and delivered up with some beautiful vegetables.\u00a0 Honestly, there is no reason to mess with a classic.\u00a0 Furthermore, the serving size of 200 grams was perfect for my palate.<\/p>\n

After another break (and perhaps another glass of wine or two), we were served the beautifully plated desserts — including a dairy free version for my friend.\u00a0 As with the steak, a small slice of New York Cheesecake<\/i>\u00a0with fresh fruit and Chantilly cream at the end of the meal is a classic that exists for a reason.\u00a0 The three-course meal is a highlight and does what a good special should do — impresses a diner to return for another visit.<\/p>\n

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Do I have any suggestions?\u00a0 I will mention GM Byron and his team are attentive and for lack of a better phrase ‘get it’ beyond many a service team in the city.\u00a0 \u00a0For the first time in forever, we are asked if we prefer to pause between courses.\u00a0 The waiter easily read our situation, and for that, I greatly appreciate the training.\u00a0 We were not rushed in any way and were able to enjoy a 3-hour meal together.\u00a0 Vegetarians, well, there are actually a few options for you on the regular menu — however, I would suggest reviewing what’s offered to determine if this is the right venue for you.<\/p>\n

Would I go back?\u00a0 Yes.\u00a0 In fact, my friend liked our experience so much, she went ahead and booked in\u00a0a weekend date night on the spot.\u00a0 I’m also trying to figure out when I can make it back for the 007 Brunch, offered every Friday.<\/p>\n

Who is Prime 68 best for?\u00a0 Any and all out of town guests – you will impress them.\u00a0 An anniversary or special occasion.<\/p>\n

Highly recommended.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Where is your favorite venue in the JW Marriott Marquis?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A to Za’atar was a guest of Prime 68.\u00a0 Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.
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